NEKCA’s Community and Justice Department provides both prevention programs and services to those who are already engaged in the criminal justice system.
Community Based Corrections Programs:
The NEKCA Community Based Program works closely with the Agency of Human Services, Department of Corrections. The program’s main purpose is to support a successful transition from incarceration to the community by increasing successful tenancy for these individuals in permanent housing throughout the Kingdom. The program provides housing search assistance, life skills assessments, training, budgeting, nutrition education, and tenancy skills class which may include some financial assistance. Once placed in permanent housing, individuals will receive ongoing support to help them maintain their housing for a period of six months to a year.
Court Diversion:
An alternative to a traditional court process for juvenile and adult offenders to resolve their case(s) through a restorative process. After successful completion the charges are dismissed by the state and your record can be expunged after two years. One year after successfully completing Court Diversion 94.2% of people do not re-offend. Five years after successfully completing Court Diversion only 14.3% of program participants re-offend.
Youth Substance Abuse Safety Program:
A program that addresses the civil violations of 16-20 year-olds that are caught consuming, possessing or trying to purchase alcohol and/or possession of marijuana. This is a civil program and is tied to their driving record.
Driving with License Suspended Program:
A program designed to look at what a person needs to complete to legally obtain or reinstate their driving privileges or license in the state of Vermont.
Pre-Trial:
A program where staff conducts a Pre-Charge Risk Assessment and Needs Screenings; assesses the probability of future criminal behavior; assesses need for further mental health and/or substance use assessment. Refers offender on release to appropriate support services; serves as a spokesperson to the public and other local community agencies when appropriate; responds to inquiries for information and assistance from the community-at-large, law enforcement, and other requesting parties and entities.
Tamarack
An alternative to the traditional court process for individuals ages 18 and above that their criminal behavior can be attributed to a mental health and/or substance use issue. This program uses restorative processes and refers to area providers to help address the mental health and/or substance use issue.
Balance & Restorative Justice:
A program that addresses needs of at risk youth, truant youth or youth on probation in a restorative fashion. Youth are referred by their DCF Family Services probation officer, direct referral from the courts, schools, law enforcement, other service providers or a self-referral.
NEKCA Community & Justice Programs
55 Seymour Lane
Newport, VT 05855
Phone: 802.334.8224
Fax: 802-334-5249