The Balanced and Restorative Justice (BARJ) program is a National Initiative that highlights the importance of the victim (or by extension, the community) in the juvenile justice process. The offender is obligated to restore justice to the victim by actively compensating the victim through restitution, community service or both. Through the three principal’s inherent to BARJ programming: Youth Accountability, Youth Competency Development and Community Protection, Pennsylvania’s Juvenile Act provides the structure for Restorative Justice to take place within the juvenile justice setting.

The youth at George Junior Republic are held accountable for their actions by actively repairing the harm to individual victims and communities through monetary payment, performing community service and attending victim awareness classes. In order to attain competency development, youth are taught new skills and work habits through classes that improve their conflict management, empathy and ability to work effectively with others. While participating in restitution and/or community service projects, youth are carefully monitored by the BARJ coordinator to ensure that the Safety and Protection of the Community are met. By equally addressing each of the three principals, the youth at George Junior can begin to restore the victim to the state of well-being that existed prior to the offense.

To inquire about the Balanced and Restorative Justice Program contact George Junior Republic at 724-458-9330 and ask to speak with the BARJ Coordinator.