VORP- Victim Offender Reconciliation Program
Started in 1986, VORP was the first program for Community Mediation Services.
VORP allows the youth of a non-violent ,first time offense to meet with the victim of their crime. This meeting is facilitated by a trained volunteer who helps the parties talk . The goal is to discuss the crime and its effects and to decide on a way for the teen to make things right. This face to face meeting also helps the youth personalize the crime and see the consequences. This may involve compensation for damages, an apology or even community service but it must be agreed upon by all parties.
There is more to the VORP mediation that just having stolen property returned or financial compensation, the objective is there will also be restoration in the participants’ lives. Victim can ask questions. The most common questions are; “Was I targeted?”, ” Do you plan to come back? ” and ” Why me?”. The mediation is a safe, respectful environment for both the victim and the offender to talk. Most VORP referrals come to CMS by the Juvenile Court Judge or the probation staff.
VORP Benefits:
Victims
- Participate in a meaningful way to resolve important questions and issues surrounding the crime.
- Discuss what it takes to ” right the wrong.”
- Receive compensation for the loss.
Offenders
- Realize people have been injured by their acts.
- Apologize directly to the victim.
- Participate in determining restitution terms and time frames.
- Take responsibility for their actions.
The Community
- Valuable tax dollars are saved by reducing court involvement.
- Community peace and good will are enhanced.
- Conflict resolution skills are spread throughout the community.