Who We Are

What is a Justice Center?

A Justice Center is a community organization where citizens can work together to find ways to resolve conflict peacefully, using primarily Restorative Justice principles and practices. Justice Centers support this work by providing various spaces to victims, offenders, and other affected individuals or groups.

What is the relationship of the Justice Center to the community and how is it funded?

The Brattleboro Community Justice Center is a partnership of the Town of Brattleboro, the Vermont Department of Corrections, and the citizens of the community. The initial funding came through a grant awarded by the Agency of Human Services and an in-kind match by the Town of Brattleboro. The Justice Center also relies on additional funding (from foundations, tax-exempt donations, etc.) in order to deliver a full compliment of services to the community.

So, are there more than one of these Justice Centers?

There are many organizations and individuals around the world that use Restorative Justice practices. The state of Vermont is unique in the network of Community Justice Centers that sprung up from the initial grant funds from the Agency of Human Services. While some programs are consistent throughout the State, each Justice Center has its own unique ways of meeting community needs. Other Justice Centers can be found in Montpelier, St. Johnsbury, Burlington, Essex, and at least a half-dozen other locations without websites.

How does the Justice Center connect with other services, agencies, and organizations in Brattleboro?

The BCJC collaborates, coalition-builds, communicates, and derives inspiration from a multitude of community organizations. Learn more about them here.

What does the Board look like?

The Citizens' Advisory Board (CAB) provides feedback and input from a variety of community constituents. Although the Town of Brattleboro Selectboard retains official oversight and responsibility for the BCJC, the CAB is valuable in clarifying the issues of interest and concern within local neighborhoods. As is the practice of filling all town committees, the Selectboard appoints members to the CAB.