What does it mean to serve in Youth Court as a volunteer?
As Youth Court volunteers, high school aged youth have the opportunity to serve their school and community, promote justice for all, and also learn critical skills in leadership and communication.
High school aged youth who wish to serve in the Maine Youth Court complete 20 hours of training in restorative justice, juvenile justice, and the Youth Court model. The classroom training is complimented by observing one Youth Court hearing and completing one hearing in partnership with a more experienced volunteer.
Throughout their training and service, students gain insight into what justice really means and new perspectives on the issues facing their peers and greater community. Youth Court works to maintain a diverse group of volunteers, with students of different schools, gender identities, ethnicities, religions, and academic backgrounds. Currently, Youth Court volunteers collectively speak over 12 languages. Students who have been in trouble with the law or struggled with substance abuse offer a unique experience and are encouraged to participate.
While volunteering with Youth Court, students also learn and practice a wide range of communication skills. Volunteers learn how to empathetically speak with community members about stressful and emotional issues. They practice expressing themselves clearly before a group. These skills, along with others improved at Youth Court, are essential for any youth preparing to enter college or the workforce.
A six month commitment, which entails about four hours monthly, is expected from all volunteers. As Youth Court strives to be accessible to all potential volunteers, accommodations can be made for busy schedules. Youth Court is confidential, and volunteers are mandated to sign and adhere to an oath of confidentiality.
As Youth Court volunteers, high school aged youth have the opportunity to serve their school and community, promote justice for all, and also learn critical skills in leadership and communication.
High school aged youth who wish to serve in the Maine Youth Court complete 20 hours of training in restorative justice, juvenile justice, and the Youth Court model. The classroom training is complimented by observing one Youth Court hearing and completing one hearing in partnership with a more experienced volunteer.
Throughout their training and service, students gain insight into what justice really means and new perspectives on the issues facing their peers and greater community. Youth Court works to maintain a diverse group of volunteers, with students of different schools, gender identities, ethnicities, religions, and academic backgrounds. Currently, Youth Court volunteers collectively speak over 12 languages. Students who have been in trouble with the law or struggled with substance abuse offer a unique experience and are encouraged to participate.
While volunteering with Youth Court, students also learn and practice a wide range of communication skills. Volunteers learn how to empathetically speak with community members about stressful and emotional issues. They practice expressing themselves clearly before a group. These skills, along with others improved at Youth Court, are essential for any youth preparing to enter college or the workforce.
A six month commitment, which entails about four hours monthly, is expected from all volunteers. As Youth Court strives to be accessible to all potential volunteers, accommodations can be made for busy schedules. Youth Court is confidential, and volunteers are mandated to sign and adhere to an oath of confidentiality.
How can I sign up for the next training?
Trainings are held throughout the year on a rotating schedule in our various regions. Student volunteers are welcome to attend any regional training and can still serve in their area. Please contact the following staff to learn more!
Greater Portland and Bath/Brunswick Area
Monica Bouyea
Youth Court Coordinator
(207) 323-5766
mbouyea@maineyouthcourt.org
Lewiston/Auburn Area
Maggie Maiorana
Youth Court Coordinator (Lewiston/Auburn Area)
207-323-4320
mmaiorana@maineyouthcourt.org
Pilot Project: Gorham High, Westbrook High and Windham High
Julie Olbrantz
Schools Coordinator
(207) 323-4791
jolbrantz@maineyouthcourt.org
Trainings are held throughout the year on a rotating schedule in our various regions. Student volunteers are welcome to attend any regional training and can still serve in their area. Please contact the following staff to learn more!
Greater Portland and Bath/Brunswick Area
Monica Bouyea
Youth Court Coordinator
(207) 323-5766
mbouyea@maineyouthcourt.org
Lewiston/Auburn Area
Maggie Maiorana
Youth Court Coordinator (Lewiston/Auburn Area)
207-323-4320
mmaiorana@maineyouthcourt.org
Pilot Project: Gorham High, Westbrook High and Windham High
Julie Olbrantz
Schools Coordinator
(207) 323-4791
jolbrantz@maineyouthcourt.org