Understanding the multifaceted motivations and perceived impacts of community volunteers in youth justice programs

Extensive research has shown that diversion programs, restorative justice, and community involvement are crucial for helping youth in trouble with the law, particularly in minor cases. Community volunteers are understood to play a vital role in making these programs effective by helping young people feel heard, valued, and accountable for their actions. A qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured interviews with ten current or former members of the Youth Justice Committee from the Boys and Girls Club of Durham. While most volunteers have a background related to youth or the criminal justice system, their primary motivation is to help troubled youth get back on track. Volunteers expressed a desire for more training and feedback on the youth’s progress to validate their impact. Gathering more information on the volunteers’ experiences could lead to improved programs, greater awareness, and recognition of their contributions, ultimately creating more opportunities for youth needing support.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Arts (MA)

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Criminology

Grantor

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Filippo, Doraianna

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Cesaroni , Carla

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10155/1984

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:ontariotechu.scholaris.ca:10155/1984