What does Restorative Justice look like? On April 13, 2017 at the DoubleTree by Hilton, 500 supporters, volunteers and community members learned the answer. Hosted by Katie Pelton of KKTV Channel 11, guests were introduced to a former defendant and a student volunteer who was once a defendant herself who both shared their experiences in the Teen Court program.
During the 2017 Annual Luncheon, guests felt a sense of hope and happiness as they heard Kamil's story. Kamil came through Teen Court and was sentenced to the Colorado Motion class. While attending this class, he discovered a newfound passion for photography. Kamil has since used his love of photography as a positive outlet for himself. Syncere, a former defendant turned student volunteer, spoke about her love of helping the youth that we serve and how rewarding volunteering with Teen Court has been for her. The common thread in all the stories was the difference Teen Court made in each of their lives.
Generous sponsors El Pomar Foundation, Heuser & Heuser, Johnson Kush, P.C., Salt Mediation Services, LLC, James L. English, P.C., Penrose St. Francis, and Classic Homes covered the cost of the luncheon; assisted by Bootstrappers, who paid at least $350 up front to help with expenses. The Gazette was also a media sponsor for our 2017 Annual Luncheon.
Former Teen Court Executive Director Debbie English presented The Founders Award to board member Karin Agee. Mike Lassota, the 2016 winner of the David W. Enoch Distinguished Service Award presented this award to Roger Wertheimer. Volunteer/Operations Director Erick Groskopf presented the Commitment Award to AAFES.
Staci McCormack and Cyndi Redfern spoke about perspective and relating to the youth that come through our program. Attendees were also able to enjoy the gallery of defendant-created artwork and the delicious lunch.
We are greatly appreciative of all of our donors and sponsors. If you would like any information on how you can participate, or how to become a Teen Court Sponsor please do contact us and we will be happy to give you the information you need.