Foundations in Restorative Practices Program
We all long for safer, healthier, and more equitable environments, but sometimes we struggle to find effective methods to achieve them. Current approaches to problem-solving often leave us feeling disconnected and unsatisfied. We need a way to heal, restore, and build strong communities.
In today’s world, conflict and division may seem to be the norm. It’s heartbreaking to witness the harm caused by adversarial systems, the breakdown of relationships, and the lack of accountability.
That’s why Restorative Justice Project Maine is here to guide you with the Foundations in Restorative Practices Program.
Bridging Connections with Restorative Practices
Offered through the University of Maine Division of Lifelong Learning and delivered by RJP Maine, this program will immerse you in the power of restorative practices, which are deeply rooted in indigenous peacemaking traditions. You’ll learn practical tools for conflict resolution and develop a profound understanding of restorative philosophy.
By embracing restorative practices, you can create a positive ripple effect in your organization and community. Together, we can build a world where connections are nurtured, harm is repaired, and relationships are restored. With growth, change, and connection, we can honor the diverse traditions of global indigenous communities and preserve their legacy with humility and respect.
The Power of Restorative Practices in Building Resilient Communities
Whether you’re an educator, a social service worker, or involved in the legal system, restorative practices can revolutionize how you interact with people and hold power. Rather than experiencing resistance, avoidance, or relying on punitive interventions, the systematic use of restorative practices leads to positive, resilient, and accountable communities.
Restorative practices can also help build healthy communities, increase social connection, decrease crime and antisocial behavior, repair harm, and restore relationships. These practices have deep roots in peacemaking and knowledge, honoring the long-standing history of global communities living in alignment with what we now refer to as restorative justice and restorative practices.
Training Details
Over the course of 6 days, spread across three months, you’ll be part of a supportive learning group that explores the philosophy behind restorative practices. Through discussions, exercises, and other practical activities, you’ll deepen your understanding and gain techniques to build strong, connected cultures.
When conflict occurs, you’ll have non-adversarial problem-solving tools at your disposal to reach solutions that build safer, healthier, more equitable environments. You’ll learn firsthand from people and organizations already using restorative practices in their everyday lives and work.
Key Learning Outcomes
Over the course of this program, participants will:
- Acquire a strong theoretical foundation in restorative practices that have been proven to enhance both personal and professional spheres
- Develop the skills necessary to facilitate proactively
- Become acquainted with restorative responses to harm (though a deep dive into these responsive practices is outside the scope of this training)
- Have access to planning tools and resources tailored to your specific needs
- Gain techniques to build strong, connected cultures
- Learn problem-solving tools to reach solutions that build safer, healthier and more equitable environments
- Practice new ways of relating to people and organizations
- Improve decision-making and leadership skills.
- Gain access to future support and development opportunities to become an in-house resource for restorative practices
Respect for Indigenous Roots
Restorative practices have deep roots in indigenous peacemaking and knowledge. We honor the diverse traditions of global indigenous communities and remain humble, knowing that these practices came before us and will outlast us.
Embracing Restorative Practices
Restorative practices aren’t just a tool for conflict resolution — they’re a way of life, a philosophy that can transform your interactions and relationships. We invite you to join us on this fulfilling journey of growth and change, not just to learn about restorative practices, but to embody them.
For more information or to register for the Foundations in Restorative Practices Program, please visit the University of Maine’s Division of Lifelong Learning: Foundations in Restorative Practices Program.