Hawai‘i Friends of Restorative Justice (formerly Hawai’i Friends of Justice & Civic Education) – a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (NGO) established in 1980 that is committed to advancing civic behavior and improving the justice system.
Vision – We envision a humanitarian justice system that provides processes for hope, healing and rehabilitation.
Mission – Hawai‘i Friends of Restorative Justice trains, advocates, develops programs, researches and educates on evidence based practices that rehabilitate, heal and give hope.
Values – As an organization, we hold these governing values:
• Approach individuals with respect and dignity in a humanitarian manner which is just
• Provide the opportunity for emotional and physical healing
• Act in a manner that is solution focused, repairs harm, and creates hope
• Do this in a confidential manner that is democratic and fosters autonomy and transparency
The current system is authoritarian, paternalistic and harmful. An effective justice system must be restorative and value:
• Forgiveness
• Responsibility/restitution
• Reconciliation
• Communications
• Resiliency
• Rehabilitation
• The human spirit
Public Health Approach – Since its inception in 1980, when it piloted a Street Law program to rehabilitate youth involved with the justice system, Hawai‘i Friends has used public health approaches, including cooperative education, solution-focused, restorative justice and other engaged learning practices, to promote positive civic experiences and improve the justice system.