Part two of our shows on restorative justice through Orange County’s Collaborative Courts and Project Kinship continues with guests Justice Joanne Motoike, Madeline Rodriguez and Jessica Vasquez from Project Kinship, and Margarita, a young person who successfully navigated Youth Development Court with the support of Project Kinship.We discuss recidivism rates, the impact of adverse childhood experiences, why intentionality in listening and healing in our communities is critical to rebuilding trust, moving away from “us versus them.”

Orange County’s Collaborative Courts (sometimes known as “problem solving” Courts) address specialized needs and the underlying issues that cause people to become justice involved. On this show, Justice Joanne Motoike provides background on the different courts that are part of the Collaborative system, including building the Youth Development Court (YDC). Margarita shares her journey through YDC and Project Kinship programs, and what she’s working towards for her future. Madeline Rodriguez and Jessica Vasquez explain Project Kinship’s involvement with Collaborative Courts and how they support youth like Margarita.

Radiant Futures (formerly Women’s Transitional Living Center) was the first domestic violence agency in Orange County and the third in the country. CEO Mark Lee joins the show to share the history of the organization and why it was time to rebrand, the organization’s new Hope House, crisis support and services for survivors, and common misconceptions about human trafficking. Lee also addresses victim blaming and how we can create an encouraging environment for receiving support.