Opportunities From: United Way of Northwest Vermont

Are you interested in supporting safety, healing, and justice for your peers and your community? The Burlington Community Justice Center Youth Program strives to provide an alternative to our traditional criminal justice system. In response to crime and conflict, we ask ourselves and our youth participants: “Why was the harm committed and what are the root causes? What has been the impact? What is needed to make things right? and What skills and support are needed to move forward positively from an incident?” We are seeking Youth RJ volunteers who have a willingness to deeply question the status quo, and ask for imagination beyond current systems.

You will receive community service hours for any training or volunteering.

Requirements:  Engage in conversation with responsible parties and affected parties to help facilitate the creation of an agreement that attempts to repair harm to those affected by crime, and support the youth to get connected to supports and services in their community.  If you're over the age of 21, we ask for previous experience working with youth.

The Burlington CJC uses restorative practices and community values to foster healing, accountability, and repair for people impacted by, and responsible for, harm, conflict and crime in our community. The Burlington CJC’s Parallel Justice program supports community members who have experienced harm by offering services that address the needs of victims and survivors. Parallel Justice involves a supportive and community response regardless of whether or not the person who caused harm is identified or held accountable by the criminal legal system.

Responsibilities:  

-Connect with individuals impacted by crime and harm by calling to follow up after a policereport 

-Support victims and survivors with navigating the criminal legal system, advocating for services when they experience barriers, and connecting them to resources   

-Offer validation and resource support to persons impacted by crimes such as burglary, property crime, vandalism, car theft, assault and other incidents 

-Maintain victim outreach log and meet regularly with supervisor to share and answer questions 

Would you like to be part of an incredible opportunity to make an impact in our community? The Circles of Support and Accountability (COSA) program at the Burlington Community Justice Center is seeking volunteers who represent the dynamic and diverse community of Chittenden County.

A COSA team provides weekly support to individuals who are reentering our community and who have been deemed high-risk or high-need by the Department of Corrections. By providing this opportunity, you can help to effect meaningful change towards public safety in our community, and make a positive impact on someone’s future.

You needn't have any specialized background or experience, and we will provide all the training necessary. You bring the commitment to supporting individuals as they rebuild their lives, and your availability for approximately one hour/week for one year.