What is the mission of OAR? Why does OAR need my support? How does OAR help people in my community? How do I find out more about Restorative Justice? Q: What is the mission of OAR? A: OAR’s mission is to rebuild lives and break the cycle of crime by providing opportunities, alternatives, and resources to offenders and their families. Back to top Q: Why does OAR need my support? A: Small contributions from many donors are the primary source of funds for direct assistance services. These contributions enable: An inmate or ex-offender to enroll in a college course to improve work skills An ex-offender or family member of an offender to preserve or obtain housing An ex-offender to meet expenses of keeping a job, such as transportation, tools, and uniforms An ex-offender or family member of an offender to pay a critical bill such as electric or heat We have worked with offenders and their families since 1971 and understand their special needs and concerns. Putting resources into restoring offenders to become productive citizens is a good investment for the future. Diverting misdemeanor offenders into community service programs saves the court time and reduces jail costs. Back to top Q: How does OAR help people in my community? Offenders OAR improves opportunities for offenders to positively transition back into the community by assisting them to develop self-sufficiency, avoid future criminal activity, and maintain sobriety. Misdemeanor offenders, who perform community service instead of serving time or other sanctions, give back to the community in a positive way. Offenders ultimately develop an optimistic attitude toward the community and their role in it, rather than feeling punished by the "system." Community Citizens Volunteers from the community feel positive about preventing future crime and helping offenders to become better citizens. They further assist the families of inmates. Additionally, OAR programs prevent crime by offenders who have been restored to productive lifestyles. They also save taxpayer’s money that might have been spent for jail time, additional court time, and other services to dysfunctional families. Back to top Q: How do I find out more about Restorative Justice? A: Click here to read more about Restorative Justice. Back to top