Two-year funding available for local programs
DENVER - The Office of Dispute Resolution in the State Court Administrator's Office will soon be offering its fourth 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," said ODR Director Cynthia Savage. "Grants will be awarded to create new organizations or agencies, or to create new programs or expand services provided by existing organizations or agencies. For the first time, the mini-grants will be awarded on a two-year funding cycle, with a limited number of third- and fourth-year continuation grants available, to enable organizations to conduct long-range planning and to better sustain their programs."
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. These processes are confidential and often are faster and less expensive than litigation.
Grants will be available for a two-year period for up to $20,000 per year for new organizations, for up to $15,000 per year for new programs within existing organizations, and for up to $10,000 per year for expansion of existing services. Matching funds will not be required for this grant cycle, but will increase the applicant's chance of receiving an award. Funds distributed by fiscal years 2009 and 2010 will need to be spent by June 30, 2009, and June 30, 2010, respectively. A limited number of third- and fourth-year continuation grants up to $10,000 per year will be available beginning in fiscal year 2011.


Applications are available on ODR's Web site. Applications are due March 3, 2008 to the Office of Dispute Resolution. It is anticipated that fiscal year 2009 funds will become available to grantees in July 2008. 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 House Joint Resolution 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 important components of the justice system," Savage said. "These grants provide communities with the opportunity both to establish local programs and expand existing services, which will increase access to justice and avenues for positive resolution of conflicts. Ultimately, these grants provide opportunities to increase safety and communication in Colorado's communities."