This nonprofit program operates throughout Minnesota and is in almost every state in the nation. The intent is to provide an alternative to the traditional legal system that is timelier and less costly.

Stephanie Haider, director of volunteer services, and Mary Johnson, a volunteer and member of the Lakes Area Restorative Justice Project, spoke at a recent meeting of the League of Women Voters of the Brainerd Lakes Area.

The LARJP is supported by area police departments, public and private schools, and by the county attorney. It's a parallel process to the criminal justice system. Johnson said that Restorative Justice brings victim, aggressor, and community together.

Johnson said, "Restorative Justice asks: "Was a harm done? Who was harmed? Who was affected by the incident? How can the aggressor make amends?"

The process involves the aggressor admitting the harm, listening to the victims, and making amends that are agreed upon by the aggressor, victim, and community. Johnson called this "earned redemption."

Haider said it can be life changing for people in the circle; the aggressor, the victim, and the community. A typical case in juvenile court costs about $2,000. The offender has a record. The Restorative Justice program keeps the offender out of the court system.

One-third of the budget for the Lakes Area Restorative Justice program goes to Lloyds of London for insurance. The volunteers need to be protected, Haider said.

The LARJP is unique in that it is not affiliated with a public agency," Haider said. "It is a grassroots program that exists at the desire of the community. Referrals to the program come from police, school, and the county attorney."

The program is entirely voluntary. The offender and the victim need to agree to participate.

"Restorative Justice can have an impact," Haider said. "The offender can learn a mistake and learn to make better choices. Often the mistake is unplanned and an unthinking act. The process allows the offender to become accountable."

LARJP is funded through grants and private donations. Roger Lynn is the executive director. Volunteers are needed. Anyone 18 and older may volunteer. A volunteer will spend approximately 10 to 15 hours per month and accept up to four cases per year.

To volunteer contact Stephanie Haider, 562-4926, or write to LARJP, 1444 Daggett Pine Road, Crosslake, MN 56442.