This Friday, September 1, Community Court will celebrate its one year anniversary from 1:30-3 p.m. in the Downtown Library Bascom Tykeson Rooms. Community Court offers an alternative to the typical justice system for dealing with low-level crimes by providing offenders with access to social services and sentencing community service rather than jail time.
Thanks to collaboration with community social service providers and local volunteers, Eugene’s Community Court launched last year on September 2. The program supports community members who have committed offenses or were in need of a more structured, supportive environment providing a helping hand to aid them in getting back on their feet.
“Community Court’s inaugural year experienced an incredible turnout, with almost 300 participants and over 60 graduates,” says Cheryl Stone, Court Administrator. “Service providers have been enthusiastic to be involved and participants have been equally appreciative. Each person’s story is unique, but all those involved are very happy for the connection to services and the individualized approach.”
For more information, please visit the Community Court webpage.