Community Volunteer Training Offered for Yolo County District Attorney’s Restorative Justice Partnership

Press Release

(Woodland, CA) - October 25, 2024 The Yolo County District Attorney's Restorative Justice Partnership (RJP) Program is excited to announce a basic training session for community volunteers on Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, from 9:30am to 4:00pm, at the Davis Police Department, located at 2600 5th Street, in Davis, CA. This training is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in making a positive impact in the criminal justice system and their community using restorative justice practices.

RJP, which has been operational since June 2013, is an innovative diversion program operated by the Yolo County District Attorney's Office. RJP also includes the RJP Case Managed (RJP-CM) program, which is geared towards justice-involved people who are experiencing challenges due to mental health and addiction issues.

RJP conferences are staffed by local volunteers who serve to facilitate or represent their community in criminal cases and use the principles of restorative justice to reach non-punitive resolutions. Volunteers play a crucial role in helping to create agreements that address the needs of victims and the community, while also promoting positive change for those responsible for the offense.

"I felt the meeting was absolutely necessary and helpful to me and the resolution doesn't feel like a punishment but a wonderful tool to help me become a better person. I appreciate the opportunity more than I can express," shared a successful program graduate.

The training will cover the fundamental principles of restorative justice, the three-step RJP conference process, and the importance of empathy in restorative discussions. Participation in this training is a prerequisite for anyone wishing to volunteer as a panelist, facilitator, or intern with the DA's Restorative Justice Partnership.

Local community members interested in becoming a part of this impactful initiative can apply online at https://bttr.im/by4if and are also encouraged to attend a one-hour virtual pre-training orientation session prior to the training date. For more information about the training or the RJP program, please contact Nicole Kirkaldy at [email protected].

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