BARJ provides supports to youth who are involved with, or are at-risk of becoming involved with, the juvenile justice system in Vermont.
THE MISSION
To enhance youth-focused restorative justice across Vermont.
- Read the Mission Statement to learn more.
PRACTICE PHILOSOPHY
BARJ provides a balanced, restorative approach to juvenile justice that focuses on:
- Giving offenders opportunities to:
- take responsibility for their actions,
- make amends to their victims & communities, and
- repair the harm they caused.
- Increasing offender competencies.
- Giving victims and community members meaningful opportunities to participate in the restorative process, make decisions, and seek resolution.
SUPPORTS & SERVICES
Supports and services:
- Are based on the individual needs of the youth and family.
- Focus on interventions that reduce and eliminate further involvement in the juvenile justice system and encourage youth to choose healthy behaviors.
This includes the following:
Restorative Processes
- Victims and community members are given the opportunity to interact with youth to discuss the harms caused and actions needed to repair the damage. This may include processes such as circles, restorative panels, and restorative family group conferences.
Screening and Assessment
- The Youth Assessment and Screening Instrument (YASI) is used to determine risk and refer youth for services based on assessed risk and needs.
Case Management
- Services for families and youth are coordinated. This may include therapeutic treatment meetings, home visits, attendance at court hearings, drug and alcohol testing, and curfew checks.
Skills Development
- Classes help youth develop skills in areas such as conflict resolution, social skills, problem solving, decision making, community service/leadership, and effective communication.
BARJ CONTACTS
The list of BARJ Contacts includes the contracted service providers and their staff.