Since 2005, the Restorative Justice Project Maine has offered restorative processes to juveniles and adults involved in the legal system, inviting the community to hold them accountable for their actions, giving voice to those who have been harmed, and creating pathways for amends, restitution and the repair of damaged relationships.

Now, across the Midcoast, RJPM is building a community-led Justice Hub in each county guided in both prevention and harm repair strategy by a diverse leadership team of local residents. Across Waldo, Knox, Lincoln and Sagadahoc Counties, RJP’s vision is to collectively construct a new model for supporting each other, forging and strengthening community bonds and responding to harms perpetuated in neighborhoods and communities.

“We believe that only communities can prevent crime and repair harm,” said RJP, in a news release.

There are many ways that people can become involved in growing this alternative to the traditional criminal legal system: mentor a young person striving to repair harm; facilitate a community building circle or harm repair process; serve as a community representative or speak to the impact of harm that you experienced as a surrogate for a person harmed in a restorative justice process; join a committee on advocacy and policy projects or participate in an Open Table process to welcome someone returning to community post-incarceration.

“There’s a place for you!” said the release. “You are needed!”

If you are interested in joining, sign up for the training series, which begins in January. There are many options to choose from to meet busy schedules and all of the training is done through Zoom – no travel required.

To register or for more information, please visit the website at www.rjpmidcoast.org, contact the Community Justice Hub Manager nearest you, or call the main office at (207) 338-2742.

Waldo County: Hanlon@rjpmidcoast.org
Knox County: Erica@rjpmidcoast.org
Lincoln County: Drew@rjpmidcoast.org
Sagadahoc County: Tom@rjpmidcoast.org

RJP Maine is a nonprofit organization that promotes fundamental change in communities, schools and institutions and the ways we practice justice. Founded in 2005, our responses to crime and wrongdoing seek renewal and safety for the community, support and healing for those harmed, and accountability and reintegration of the people who have caused harm. Our Mission is to promote a justice that is community-based, repairs harm, and creates safety and wellbeing for all.