Website of the Month: Community Circles of Washington County
Community Circles are used in the criminal justice system in Washington County, Minnesota to provide support to victims, develop sentencing agreements for offenders, and empower the community in responding to and preventing crime. This website describes the circles process.
Who We Are provides a brief introduction to circles in Washington County, the reason for community participation, and benefits for conflict resolution.
Peacemaking Circle Format describes the value of the circle process and format for facilitating communication and problem-solving. The section also explains the use of the talking piece and the role of circle keepers.
Advantages for Victims list the different options available to victims through participating in community circles.
Advantages for offenders describes the opportunities the circle process provides to offenders and the responsibilities of offenders entering the process.
Principles and Values explore the values underlying the circle process.
Interested in Volunteering? provides contact information for Washington County residents wishing to participate in the programme.
February 2006
