Restorative Justice mentors spend an hour or two each week with a participant in one of the programs of the Restorative Justice Project. For young offenders in our Community Resolution Program, caring relationships with mentors help youth to sustain motivation and build self-esteem, as well as repair the harm that they caused. For Reentry Center residents, the mentor is a resource to help the resident transition back into society.

RJP will conduct a mentor training series in Belfast beginning September 6. The introductory session will cover Restorative Justice philosophy, the work of RJP, and the ways volunteers can get involved, including mentoring. Those interested in becoming mentors are encouraged to complete the RJP mentor training by attending four more sessions on September 13, 20, 27, and October 4. Each session runs from 6pm to 8:30pm.

To register for the sessions, please contact Hanlon Kelley at 338-2742, ext. 101, or e-mail hanlon@rjpmidcoast.org.

The Restorative Justice Project of the Midcoast is a nonprofit organization that promotes fundamental change in the justice system and schools. Our responses to crime and wrongdoing seek renewal and safety for the community, support and healing for victims, and accountability and reintegration of the offender. To learn more about the Restorative Justice Project, visit rjpmidcoast.org.