The Center for Restorative Justice (CRJ) is a non-profit community agency that has been providing programs and services throughout Bennington County, Vermont for nearly 30 years. Originally incorporated in 1982 as Bennington County Court Diversion Program, Inc., the agency now known as CRJ has grown considerably over the past several years and offers a variety of programs including:
- Court Diversion
- Teen Alcohol Safety Program
- Community Service Club
- Juvenile Restorative Probation Project
- Community Support and Supervision (Street Checker Program)
- Tobacco-Free Community Partners
- The Emporium- a teen clothing swap shop
- Pre-Charge Programs
- Skills Building Groups and Classes
Our programs are based on the principles of restorative justice, which is an alternative philosophy of justice that focuses on the people and communities harmed by crime. Restorative Justice brings together those most affected by the crime to help determine what the offender may do to begin to make amends.
The mission of CRJ is to CREATE opportunities for individuals to take responsibility for their actions, to help themselves and to give back to their community,
STRENGTHEN the community through prevention, education and intervention
and to EMPOWER individuals to take an active role in responding to the safety and well-being of themselves and their community.