Alabama Restorative Justice Center

🎉 Welcome to the Alabama Restorative Justice Center’s WEBSITE! 🎉 A few things you may notice:  ⭐️ Restorative Justice information page! ⭐️ Our Areas of Focus! ⭐️ NEW PROGRAMS! There is more to come, but for now we are just so excited to show off our new look! Visit our site, learn about our mission, and let us know your thoughts below!

⭐️ Back with another #RJThursday! There have been many questions about what a Circle is this month! Let’s talk about it: When we talk about Restorative Justice Circles, there are many types! From talking, to conflict, to understanding, to community building, to support— these are the key areas the ALRJC focuses on! We use a collaborative approach to combine different circle ideas into our Circles model. Our facilitators are trauma-informed and empower members through a strengths-based approach to encourage positive development! The ALRJC believes in the age old philosophy that we are all in need of help and that helping others helps us at the same time! Our programs are completely free to the community and welcome new members any time! 🔗 Let us know what kind of Circle you want in your community! Don’t see one? Make a suggestion! https://lnkd.in/eXuSxqbT

Embracing Gratitude: A Thread 💡 Did you know: studies using brain imaging techniques have shown that practicing gratitude can lead to changes in the brain, particularly in areas associated with reward, empathy, and complex thinking. In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to overlook the power of gratitude. Take a moment to explore the importance of practicing gratitude: 1️⃣ Shifts Focus: Gratitude redirects our attention from what we lack to the abundance around us. By acknowledging the positives, we create a mindset that fosters joy and contentment. 2️⃣ Strengthens Relationships: Expressing gratitude deepens connections with others. When we appreciate and vocalize our thanks, it not only uplifts them but also strengthens the bond we share. 3️⃣ Boosts Mental Well-being: Gratitude is a powerful antidote to stress and negativity. It rewires our brains to focus on the good, reducing anxiety and enhancing overall mental well-being. 4️⃣ Fosters Resilience: Life is full of challenges, but a grateful mindset helps us navigate them with resilience. It reminds us of our ability to overcome adversity and find silver linings. 5️⃣ Inspires Kindness: Gratitude has a ripple effect. When we receive kindness, expressing gratitude encourages a cycle of generosity and compassion, creating a positive impact on our communities. 6️⃣ Increases Self-Awareness: Reflecting on what we're grateful for encourages self-discovery. It helps us understand our values, priorities, and the aspects of life that bring us true fulfillment. 7️⃣ Enhances Perspective: Gratitude provides a broader perspective. It reminds us that even in challenging times, there are aspects of life to be thankful for, offering a more balanced outlook. Practices of #RestorativeJustice have been around for quite some time. Empowering yourself through a process that is deeply woven into the RJ framework, gratitude is just one piece of the puzzle that has the ability to change your life!

⭐️ Back at it with #RJThursday! 🔍Today we are taking a look at what the Restorative Justice process can look like from the lens of youthful offending and community resolution. 💡We challenge you to watch this clip and reflect on the following questions: • How did this story affect you? • Would you feel like you received justice if this happened to you? • What would it be like if you were in the place of the person who caused harm? • What would it be like if you were in the place of the person who had been harmed? • Do you think justice was served?

⭐️ Back at it with #RJThursday! 🔍Today we are taking a look at what the Restorative Justice process can look like from the lens of youthful offending and community resolution. 💡We challenge you to watch this clip and reflect on the following questions: • How did this story affect you? • Would you feel like you received justice if this happened to you? • What would it be like if you were in the place of the person who caused harm? • What would it be like if you were in the place of the person who had been harmed? • Do you think justice was served?

✉️ First newsletter of the year is here! What you’ll find: ⭐️ 2023 recap ⭐️ 2024 annual giving goal ⭐️ January dates to remember

✉️ First newsletter of the year is here! What you’ll find: ⭐️ 2023 recap ⭐️ 2024 annual giving goal ⭐️ January dates to remember

It's #RJThursday and todays topic: 🔍 An Introduction to Restorative Approaches Conflict is a way of life—it is inevitable. How we approach it is what makes the difference. Left unchecked, the lingering effects of these complexities live on within us. Lets be honest, conflict does not feel good. It damages our self-esteem, it hurts our closest relationships, and it impacts our entire environment. With restorative approaches, we can keep in check those lingering effects by shifting the focus from shame and blame to fostering a genuine and lasting resolution that is tailored to those involved in the process. The idea is not to need to fix conflict after the impact, but rather to create space to equip individuals with the tools and resources to navigate conflict as it arises in the future to seek common ground through patience, skills, and empathy. 🎬: by Luke Roberts / Resolve Consultants