Kitty O’Hara and Dr. Judith Hills on Community, Repair, and 15 Years of Restorative Justice

In this conversation, longtime volunteers Kitty O’Hara and Dr. Judith Hills reflect on what first brought them to the work of the Hartford Community Restorative Justice Center, the experiences that have stayed with them, and the needs they see in our community today.

Kitty has been connected to the Hartford Community Restorative Justice Center since its earliest years and has helped shape the spirit of the organization over the past 15 years. She also leads a weekly art class at the Justice Center, which has become a meaningful part of life in our office. Today, our walls are filled with artwork created by program participants over the years, offering a visible reminder of creativity, dignity, healing, and connection.

Dr. Judith Hills has also been deeply involved in HCRJC’s work and brings a strong commitment to community care. As a doctor at Good Neighbor Health Clinics, one of our important community partners, she has helped connect people with access to health care and support.

Together, Kitty and Dr. Hills share stories from the work, reflect on what they have learned, and speak candidly about why restorative justice continues to matter in the Upper Valley.

This video is part of our effort to preserve the voices, stories, and relationships that have shaped the Hartford Community Restorative Justice Center and continue to guide our work today. This storytelling project is made possible by a generous contribution from the Jack and Dorothy Byrne Foundation.

To learn more, donate, or get involved as a community volunteer, visit hartfordjusticecenter.org.