Current volunteer need: In an effort to better match our volunteers to the people we serve, we are particularly interested in volunteers who are age 30 or under, of all gender identities, races, and ethnicities. 

JOB TITLE:    Restorative Justice Panel Volunteer

LOCATION and TIME:     Essex, Colchester or Milton. Evenings on a Monday or Thursday, or mid-day on a Tuesday. 

PURPOSE OF POSITION: To work with a team of volunteers and CJC staff to facilitate Restorative Justice panels.

DUTIES:  With other Restorative Justice Panel volunteers, engage in conversations with responsible parties and affected parties. Cooperatively facilitate the creation of the responsible party’s restorative agreement.  This agreement is the work the responsible party has said they will complete.  It outlines how they will: 

  • attempt to repair harm to those affected by crime  

  • connect with the community in a positive way  

  • engage in learning and growth so that they are less likely to make the same mistake in the future.  

Determine how much time the responsible party will need to complete the work of the agreement, and what supports they need. At the next meeting, assess the responsible party’s compliance with their agreement. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

Willingness and ability to: 

  • Use restorative practice rather than punitive approaches to crime and conflict in your community  

  • Work collaboratively with a team to discuss options and make decisions   

  • Take direction from staff 

  • Be fair 

  • To listen 

  • To be non-judgmental 

Prospective Volunteers may not be: 

  • currently under the supervision of the Department of Corrections for any crime. 

  • currently in the process of completing their own Restorative Justice Panel agreement. 

  • having any other complicating entanglements with the Department of Corrections, or their local law enforcement agency including but not limited to; pending or unresolved legal actions, civil action or informal history that would create a conflict of interest. (If you are uncertain and would still like to volunteer, please contact us). 

TRAINING: All volunteers for the Essex Community Justice Center must have the following training prior to serving as a Panel member: 

  • Basic Orientation to the Department of Corrections through the DOC Volunteer Coordinator 

  • Basic Restorative Justice Panel Training 

  • Observation of at least 3 Restorative Justice Panels 

BENEFITS:  Assisting those affected by crime in your local community and supporting your local community in becoming stronger and safer. Reducing the time and cost needed to address the crime. Supporting those affected by crime to seek repair and have a voice in how the situation is addressed. Support a program that reduces reoffending by responsible parties. 

COMMITMENT: After the initial training, the CJC requests a minimum commitment of one-year service on a Panel, and attendance on Panels at least 1-2 times monthly.  Additional expectations include case preparations, and ongoing trainings.