Restorative Justice Programs
The Restorative Justice Program at the Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) provides supportive, community-based programs that will help youth develop accountability, strengthen relationships, and make positive choices. Serving youth ages 11-18 across Kennebec & Somerset Counties, these programs focus on restorative practices, mentorship, academic support, and personal growth in a safe and structured environment.
Through partnerships with local schools, families, and the Waterville Police Department, the AYCC offers several youth support services, including Alternative to Suspension (A2S) and our Teen & Restorative Program. Together, these programs help young people stay connected to school, build life skills, and become active members of their community.
Empowering Youth for a Brighter Future
Restorative Justice Program
The Restorative Justice Programs provide a supportive after-school environment where youth can build relationships, develop leadership skills, and participate in positive community activities. The program runs year-round and works alongside the broader AYCC Teen Programs to create an inclusive environment for all participants.
Teens may be self-referred, or may be referred by a parent/guardian, or may be referred by local law enforcement. Through mentorship, group discussions, and hands-on activities, participants learn important life skills including:
- Communication & Relationship Building
- Leadership & Teamwork
- Personal Responsibility
- Conflict Resolution
- Community Engagement
By connecting restorative partiicpants with the larger teen community, the program helps remove stigma and builds a strong sense of belonging while encouraging youth to become positive contributors to their community.
Alternative to Suspension (A2S)
The A2S program provides students with a structured and supervised alternative to out-of-school suspension. Instead of being sent home without support, students spend their suspension period at the AYCC, where they can continue their schoolwork, reflect on their behavior, and participate in restorative learning activities. The AYCC works with several schools in the area.
A2S takes place Monday-Friday from 10:00 am-2:00 pm on school days and focuses on helping students remain academically engaged while developing skills such as accountability, conflict resolution, teamwork, and self-discipline.
During the program, students may participate in:
- Academic work and teacher assignments
- Restorative Justice reflection activities
- Mentorship and goal-setting sessions
- Conflict resolution workshops
- Community Service or Leadership Activities
The goal of A2S is to help students learn from mistakes, repair harm, and return to school better prepared to succeed.
Meet our Restorative Justice Coordinator, Kate
Kate Williams brings a deep commitment to creating supportive, inclusive spaces for youth. With over 15 years of experience in personal training and health counseling, Kate has worked with a wide range of individuals—from student-athletes to those with unique physical and emotional needs—always with a focus on personal empowerment and holistic well-being. She brings this same approach to her work with teens, where she helps foster accountability, empathy, and personal growth through restorative practices. Kate is passionate about helping young people navigate challenges, build stronger community ties, and develop the tools they need to thrive.
Contact Kate:
Kate Williams, Restorative Justice Coordinator
207-873-0684 x264 | kwilliams@clubaycc.org
Community Impact
The Restorative Justice Program serves youth and families throughout central Maine, helping young people develop the tools they need to make positive choices and build stronger futures. In 2025 alone, the program supported 70 youth, creating measurable impacts for participants, their families, and the communities they call home.
Through restorative practices, mentorship, and community partnerships, the AYCC continues to provide innovative youth support programs that strengthen individuals and build healthier communities.