Harm & Conflict:
If You’ve Done Harm
For Those Who Have Caused Harm
Taking Steps Toward Accountability and Healing
If you have caused harm and want to take responsibility for your actions, we're here to support your journey toward accountability and healing. We recognize that there are many barriers to accountability in our communities, and we believe communities can hold people accountable without causing more harm.
Our Approach
At RJIM, we know that taking responsibility for harm isn't easy. Our community of practice includes people who have also caused harm and are on their own journeys of accountability. We offer a compassionate yet honest approach that:
Acknowledges the reality of harm caused
Creates space for understanding without excusing behavior
Explores the root causes of harm so plans can be made to stop it
Develops concrete steps for making amends when possible
Builds skills to prevent future harm
Provides support throughout the process
What to Expect
1. Initial Conversation
The process begins with a confidential meeting with our trained facilitators to discuss what happened, explore your motivations for seeking accountability, and outline potential next steps.
2. Preparation
We'll work with you to prepare for the restorative process, which may include:
Reflecting on the impact of your actions
Developing language to take responsibility
Identifying needs and concerns
Building skills for listening and responding to others' experiences
3. Restorative Process
Depending on your situation and the wishes of those harmed, this may include:
A facilitated dialogue with the person(s) harmed (only with their consent)
A circle process with community members
A vicarious restorative process with surrogate participants
Development of an accountability plan
4. Follow-Through
We provide ongoing support as you implement your accountability plan and continue your journey of personal growth and transformation.
Important Things to Know
We center survivors in all our work, but that doesn't mean we aren't supportive of people who have done harm.
We can't guarantee that we'll reach out to a person you've harmed, but we will help you find a path to accountability with supportive community around you.
All participation is voluntary for everyone involved—we will never pressure someone who has been harmed to participate.
The process is confidential within legal limitations.
We believe that when people have the opportunity for community connection and learning after difficult behavior, their ability and motivation to not harm that community improves.
Who We Work With
We work with people who have caused various types of harm, including but not limited to:
Youth involved with the juvenile justice system
Young adults facing criminal charges
People with intellectual disabilities
Community members seeking to make amends
People involved in workplace or school conflicts
Our Commitment
We believe everyone deserves second chances and that we all deserve access to the tools and skills that will help us heal individually and collectively. Our commitment is to create space for transformation while holding firm to the principles of accountability and responsibility.
Taking the First Step
Reaching out for help with accountability takes courage. We honor your willingness to take responsibility and are here to support your journey.
Contact us to learn more: Phone: (207) 504-5134
Email: info@rjimaine.org
