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1 <br /> ORANGE COUNTY <br /> BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS <br /> ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT <br /> Meeting Date: April 1, 2025 <br /> Action Agenda <br /> Item No. 4-b <br /> SUBJECT: Proclamation Recognizing 25th Anniversary of Community Resource Court <br /> DEPARTMENT: Criminal Justice Resources <br /> ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: <br /> Proclamation Pamela Weiden, District Court Judge's <br /> Office, Programs and Special <br /> Projects Manager, 919-644-4659 <br /> Caitlin Fenhagen, CJRD Director/Deputy <br /> Manager, 919-245-2300 <br /> PURPOSE: To approve a proclamation designating April 29, 2025, as "Community Resource <br /> Court Day" in recognition of the 25t" anniversary of Community Resource Court in Orange County. <br /> BACKGROUND: Community Resource Court (CRC) was started twenty-five (25) years ago in <br /> Orange County by the District Court Judge's Office and court and behavioral health stakeholders <br /> to support individuals in the criminal justice system with mental health needs. This innovative <br /> specialty court was the first of its kind in North Carolina. Individuals who voluntarily enter CRC are <br /> diverted from the regular court process and provided theraputic support and interventions by a <br /> multi-disciplinary team with the goal of providing rehabilitation, stability, accountability and an <br /> ongoing connection to services. <br /> The Court meets monthly and participants have individualized clinical plans depending on their <br /> behavioral health needs. The session starts with a confidential team staffing of all the participants <br /> and then during the closed court session, each participant appears before the presiding judge to <br /> discuss their progress, any challenges and next steps. Participation in CRC is typically six to nine <br /> months and upon successful completion, there is a beneficial legal outcome that could involve the <br /> charges being dismissed or probation terminating. <br /> Many graduates of CRC return to the Court sessions to share their insights with new participants. <br /> Over the last 25 years, there have been more than 1,000 individuals that have participated in the <br /> Court. These participants and the Court's longevity are a testament to the success of this <br /> innovative program, which could not occur without a dedicated team of stakeholders who ensure <br /> its successful operation. This team includes the coordinator, two clinicians from UNC`s Center for <br /> Excellence in Community Mental Health, a judge, defense attorneys, a prosecutor and community <br /> advocates. The team, while serving in different roles, all share the mission of ensuring the well- <br /> being of the participants and the success of the Court. <br />