A small business owner in Oakland arrived at her shop one morning to find that someone had broken in and stolen money. In reviewing security footage, she was shocked and hurt to see that the thief had been a beloved former employee. She felt unsure how to respond, but knew that police involvement would not bring the sense of accountability and repair she needed. Instead, she reached out to Restore Oakland. 

Through our PATH Through Conflict Program, Restore Oakland supported the business owner in identifying her needs, and worked with the former employee to understand the harm, take accountability, and cultivate the financial and emotional stability needed to prevent future harm. 

Many survivors of harm and violence in our communities – particularly Black and Brown, immigrant, and low-income survivors – do not trust the criminal legal system to support them. Instead, they are seeking alternatives that have the potential to make our communities whole and safe.

Practicing Accountability Transformation & Healing (PATH)

Our PATH Through Conflict Program uses evidence-based and trauma-informed circle practices, which have roots in indigenous frameworks that view preventing, responding to, and healing from harm as our collective responsibility. When community members reach out to Restore Oakland after experiencing harm or conflict, they are matched with facilitators who collaboratively support their work toward accountability and healing. 

As Restore Oakland campaigns for mental health care and services proven to prevent violence and incarceration, we are also committed to responding to our community's clear and urgent desire to address harm and conflict without involving the police.

“I am full of gratitude that Restore Oakland has given me, and all of us, this opportunity for healing and change.” 

- Conflict Transformation Participant

Our Giving Tuesday Ask

We need to raise $12,000 to support 12 community conflict resolution processes in 2023! Your gift will go directly towards making these services accessible to the community members who need this support the most.

If you or someone in your community is looking for community conflict transformation services and support please email Kari at [email protected].