Office of Dispute Resolution announces mini-grants program
Monday, February 13, 2006
- Organization: Colorado State Judicial Branch
Office of Dispute Resolution announces mini-grants program
The Office of Dispute Resolution in the State Court Administrator's Office will soon be offering its second round of mini-grants for community conflict resolution and/or restorative justice services in Colorado. The grants are available to support development of local community conflict resolution and restorative justice services throughout the state.
"The grants will continue to be targeted toward unserved or underserved populations throughout the state," says Cynthia Savage, director, ODR. "Grants will be awarded to create new organizations or agencies, or to expand services provided by existing organizations or agencies."
Community conflict resolution encompasses a variety of options that allow parties and communities to resolve disputes without litigating matters in court. Restorative justice services partner the community, offender and victims of crime to develop respect, understanding and accountability, and shape positive social behavior.
Grants for new organizations will to be available in the range of $15,000 - $20,000, and grants for expansion of services are anticipated in the range of $5,000 - $10,000. Matching funds will not be required for this grant year, but will increase the applicant's chance of receiving an award. Funds awarded will need to be spent by June 30, 2007, the end of Fiscal Year 2007.
If sufficient funds become available in Fiscal Year 2008, FY2007 recipients may apply for a limited number of continuation grants in FY2008.
Applications are available on ODR's website during February and up to March 20, 2006, when applications are due to the Office of Dispute Resolution. It is anticipated that funds will become available to grantees in July, 2006. The application is posted at http://www.courts.state.co.us/chs/court/mediation/ccrrjminigrant.htm
The Office of Dispute Resolution was created by the Colorado Dispute Resolution Act in 1983. The ODR's mission is to establish or make available dispute resolution programs and related services throughout the state, as designated by the Chief Justice of Colorado's Supreme Court. The courts were encouraged to expand use of the Dispute Resolution Act by HJR 97-1020. ODR is located in the State Court Administrator's Office of the Colorado Judicial Branch. ODR's website is http://www.courts.state.co.us/chs/court/mediation/odrindex.htm.
"Community conflict resolution and restorative justice services are an important component of the justice system," adds Savage. "These grants provide communities with the opportunity to both establish local programs and expand existing services, which will increase access to justice and alternative avenues for positive resolution of conflicts. Ultimately, these grants provide opportunities to increase safety and communication in Colorado's communities."
