Chapter 3: The Panel Process
Estimated time: 15 to 20 minutes
Video to watch (optional inspiration): Moving On – A Short Film about Restorative Justice (YouTube, about 4 minutes)
Learning Goals
Reflect on what you have learned in this orientation.
Identify your next steps as a new volunteer.
Connect personal motivation to the larger mission of restorative justice.
Core Idea
Orientation is just the beginning. Your learning will deepen as you observe real panels, work with staff, and gain experience. Reflection helps you connect training to practice and to your own values.
Reflection Questions
What surprised you most about restorative justice?
Which volunteer story resonated most with you?
In the panel video, what question would you have asked if you were at the table?
How will you make sure to center the harmed party’s needs in your role?
Next Steps
Read The Little Book of Restorative Justice by Howard Zehr.
Review all training videos and notes again.
Observe at least one panel meeting.
Meet with staff for a follow-up conversation about your readiness.
Begin your first panel with support from experienced volunteers.
Volunteer Inspiration
Each panel you serve on is part of a larger story. By showing up, you help create a culture of accountability, healing, and repair. You make justice personal, relational, and real.