ABOUT YOUTH RESTORATIVE ACTION PROJECT

YRAP has dealt with over 800 cases in all levels of severity for Edmonton Youth

Background

YRAP was formed in 2001 with the concern that youth were often not equipped to advocate for their rights in the systems in which they find themselves, such as the child welfare system, the education system, and the criminal justice system.

YRAP was heavily influenced by the ideas of restorative justice, a community-based approach in which those who have committed offenses are held accountable for harm that they have caused and help those harmed. The ultimate goal of YRAP is to reduce or reverse the harm that has been done, as well as preventing re-offense.

In 2003, the Youth Criminal Justice Act was enacted, allowing for members of the community to form Youth Justice Committees in order to address crimes in their communities differently than might take place in standard court. On May 13, 2003, YRAP was officially sanctioned as a Youth Justice Committee and has received numerous awards, including the Commonwealth Youth Gold Award and the National Ron Wiebe Restorative Justice Award.

YRAP strives to bring positive outcomes for those affected by criminal activity

In accordance with the Youth Criminal Justice Act and the principles of Restorative Justice, YRAP aims to create meaningful consequences that are educational and rehabilitative rather than punitive. YRAP provides support and advocacy for the youth so that they are able to take responsibility for their actions and have meaningful consequences.

YRAP also allows victims of crime to have a greater level of involvement in the process versus traditional court. Should the victim choose to be involved in the process, their input can be passed on to the court and even included in YRAP’s sentencing recommendations. YRAP members are aware that every person has particular needs and are prepared to be extremely flexible.

Our vision is to provide a relationship-based, holistic environment which uses an autonomous and youth-centered voice as authentic and sustainable change is the responsibility of both the individual and the community.

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