Victims, offenders and everyone living in the community are all stakeholders in the problem of crime. A Community Justice Board offers the community the opportunity to have an active role in discussing the harm caused by crime and finding a just way to repair the harm. When a victim is unable to directly address an offender, the Community Justice Board speaks on the victim's behalf. Community Justice Boards have been in operation in Clay County since 2008.

How a Community Justice Board Works

Community Justice Boards work with the Clay County Juvenile Office to mentor youth who have engaged in nonviolent offenses. Boards meet with juvenile officers, offenders, and their parents or guardians to discuss what happened, how individual victims and the community were affected by the offense, and to develop a plan to make things right. In most cases victim and offender are restored as members of the community, crime is decreased, and recurring harm is avoided.

How to Volunteer

A Community Justice Board is composed of volunteers who represents a cross-section of the Community. We welcome new volunteers. Volunteers complete an application and background check, and receive training on board policy and procedures. Volunteers determine how often they wish to participate. For more information contact the Office of Dispute Resolution Services at 816-736-8402.