Young people are the most effective ambassadors of system transformation.
The Youth Restorative Diversion Initiative (YRDI) was created to help young people who have made mistakes learn from them, make amends, and avoid the lasting consequences of a criminal record. Instead of going through the traditional juvenile justice system, YRDI offers an opportunity for young people to take responsibility for their actions and repair the harm they’ve caused. The program supports participants in their restorative journeys, focusing on building strengths and protective factors for long-term positive outcomes.
YRDI takes a non-punitive, trauma-informed approach, with trained Ambassadors facilitating peer-to-peer learning and support. The initiative emphasizes restorative practices that promote growth and learning, highlighting that mistakes can be valuable opportunities for personal development and better decision-making.
YPC Ambassadors Change Lives
YPC Ambassadors are dedicated to making a positive impact in the community. They believe in fairness, justice, and the power of second chances. By guiding their peers through the Youth Peer Court process, they have helped transform how we address harm caused by young people, shifting the focus to community-based justice and support. Their commitment to restorative practices ensures that young people can learn from their mistakes, take responsibility, and rebuild trust within their community.
Who?
High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors.
What?
Highly trained students who facilitate peer court processes through the YRDI.
Why?
Young people who have caused harm receive a community-based restorative opportunity, helping them avoid legal system involvement and reduce overreliance on the juvenile legal system.
How?
A peer-driven restorative court process that helps young people take accountability for their harmful actions by addressing the root causes of their behavior and the resulting impacts and needs.
YPC Ambassadors provide a unique public service by administering justice through a restorative, peer-driven process that helps young people take accountability for their actions, repair harm, and avoid formal legal system involvement.
Apply today to become a YPC Ambassador and start your journey as a leader committed to justice and community safety!