It was a great opportunity to help the offender see his behavior from the point of view of others, to get to know something about him aside from the offense, and work together to come up with a solution that works for everyone.

In community conferencing, individuals who have been harmed have the opportunity to explain how the incident has affected them to the person who has created the problem. This personalizes the victim to the offender, helping to build connections within the community.  Individuals are less likely to trespass upon people they know, and studies show that it also helps the victim feel less fearful of becoming re-victimized.

Offenders are held accountable by meeting those they have negatively impacted. By doing so, they have the opportunity to make amends, and to participate in a meaningful way. Many pay their court fines through direct service in the community, reconnecting them with West Chester as productive citizens. One individual stated that it was the “first time I had seen anything like this and think it is very helpful. It should be used much more.”