V.O.I.C.E.S

What is the VOICES program?

V.O.I.C.E.S., Victim-Offender Mediation, is a program that was developed by the Dispute Resolution Center and the Kitsap County Juvenile Department. Your DIVERSION Case Specialist has referred you to the V.O.I.C.E.S. program because you have committed a crime that may have harmed another person in some way, and you have admitted your part in the offense.

Now it is time to make things right with the person who was harmed by your actions. Your Case Specialist has encouraged you to participate in the V.O.I.C.E.S. program because it is a good way for you to take responsibility for your actions and make amends by resolving things in a positive way.

V.O.I.C.E.S. can help you do that! Our program arranges mediations between youth who commit crimes and those who are the victim of the crime.

Why should I mediate?

• You decide with the victim what it will take to make it right.
• You have the opportunity to tell the victim what was going on for you at the time of the crime.
• You will be able to hear how the crime affected the victim.
• You will have the chance to close this chapter in your life and move on.

What happens during mediation?

• Initially, you and your parents will tell mediators about the crime and the charges.
• If you and the victim agree to meet, then a mediation will be scheduled.
• At the mediation, with the help of mediators, you and the victim talk about how the offense affected both of you.
• You will work on a solution that works for both of you.

Your participation is completely voluntary, and there is no charge for this service.

To set up an appointment, call V.O.I.C.E.S. today!

Contact the Youth Services Manager at: (360) 698-0968 or drc@kitsapdrc.org