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Social Justice
The Social Justice Commission has an 8-part action plan to engage youth and reduce violent crime through the “Safe Days, Quiet Nights” initiative. This program aims to keep kids off the streets, promote school attendance, and foster positive relationships with law enforcement.
This year's efforts are supported by a generous $4000 grant from the Muskegon County Community Foundation, with all funds directly asisting underprivileged kids in accessing the offered programs and activities.
“Operation Graduation” is our truancy enforcement program that aims to help kids and parents avoid criminal charges by promoting school attendance. The Social Justice Commission collaborates with schools, the Mediation and Restorative Justice Center, DHS, and juvenile court to support families in addressing attendance issues and keeping students in school.
Step 2 of our action plan is the “Quiet Nights” curfew program. Kids caught out past curfew can avoid charges, fines, and probation by demonstrating they can stay out of trouble and participate in at least one positive activity with their parents.
Step 3 is our Summer Recreational Program for youth, offered in partnership with the Muskegon and Muskegon Heights school systems. The gym and pool are open 6 nights a week for kids ages 6 to 26, providing safe, fun activities all summer. Additionally, the Social Justice Commission has identified over 30 free or low-cost activities to ensure there are positive options for every child.
Summer Recreational Events: 2015
- Added Muskegon Heights Venue at the High School
- Monday through Saturday
- June 15–August 21
- 6–10 PM (Mon.–Thurs.)
- 12–4 PM (Fri. & Sat.)
- Participants ranged from ages 8–25
- Total participants: 13,400
- 6–10 PM (Mon.–Thrus.)
- 12–4 PM (Fri. & Sat.)
- Literacy programs, Cooking Matters programs, Safey Around Water programs, anti-bullying programs, tutoring services
Step 4 is our “Buddy Bucks" program, aimed at fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and kids. Officers receive free food vouchers from McDonald's to reward children for good deeds, like wearing helmets while biking or walking safely. McDonald's has sponsored the program for three years, resulting in over 600 Buddy Buck tickets distributed this summer.
Step 5 is our juvenile diversion program for first-time non-violent offenders, offering them a chance to keep their records clean through three programs by the Social Justice Commission.
- Project Justice**: An eight-week leadership training program by Muskegon Community College, costing $75, which provides positive leadership and employment skills, with potential for free college credit upon successful completion.
- Men and Women of Honor**: A faith-based weekly mentorship group focusing on living honorably, concluding with a weekend retreat for participants throughout Muskegon County.
- Mediation and Restorative Justice Program**: Involves class-like programming and community service projects.
Completing any of these programs results in no charges being filed against the juvenile offender.
Step 6 is our adult diversion program for first-time, non-violent offenders, allowing them to avoid the criminal justice system. It follows the Restorative Justice Model, requiring participants to pay restitution, perform community service, and engage with the Mediation and Restorative Justice Center.
Step 7 involves listening and engaging with the community. The SJC meets monthly to review proposals and track initiative progress, welcoming all ideas as long as there's a commitment to act.
Step 8 is a Muskegon-wide prayer initiative led by Pastor Tim Cross of Living Word Church and local pastors, encouraging continuous prayer for peace in our community, 24/7.