Restorative Justice Community Action (RJCA) is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing community-based restorative services throughout Hennepin and Ramsey County. Restorative Justice is an approach that focuses on the needs of the harmed parties, those who caused harm, and the involved communities to identify solutions that promote repair, reconciliation, and rebuilding of relationships.
RJCA brings residents and victims of Hennepin County, Ramsey County, and Minneapolis together with adults and youth who have committed crimes in their area. Together they participate in a “community conference,” an alternative sentencing option and restorative justice process that strengthens accountability and opens a line of communication between the referred participant and those harmed.
RJCA facilitates conversations between individuals who have committed misdemeanor or low-level felony offenses and those impacted by the offense to discuss the incident and determine restitution. Individuals who complete the program are able to keep a conviction off their record, avoid fines, and minimize contact with the justice system. Completing the process can lead to a reduction of barriers that could prevent behavior change and future success. The process enables RJCA to achieve its mission of fostering individual growth while strengthening communities through restorative justice practices.
Repairing the harm usually consists of community service projects or personal development to help referred participants avoid future harmful behaviors.