Orange County NC Website
Browse       Search
6 <br /> 1 <br /> 2 Many graduates of CRC return to the Court sessions to share their insights with new participants. <br /> 3 Over the last 25 years, there have been more than 1,000 individuals that have participated in the <br /> 4 Court. These participants and the Court's longevity are a testament to the success of this <br /> 5 innovative program, which could not occur without a dedicated team of stakeholders who ensure <br /> 6 its successful operation. This team includes the coordinator, two clinicians from UNC`s Center for <br /> 7 Excellence in Community Mental Health, a judge, defense attorneys, a prosecutor and community <br /> 8 advocates. The team, while serving in different roles, all share the mission of ensuring the well- <br /> 9 being of the participants and the success of the Court. <br /> 10 <br /> 11 In honor of the 25th anniversary of CRC, a celebration is planned at the United Church of Chapel <br /> 12 Hill on April 29, 2025 from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The public is invited to join this event to recognize <br /> 13 the importance of this Court to the community and Judicial District 18. <br /> 14 <br /> 15 Deputy County Manager Caitlin Fenhagen introduced the item and those in attendance <br /> 16 who have played a role in the development and success of Community Resource Court. <br /> 17 <br /> 18 Judge Todd Roper greeted the Board and spoke about the program. He described the <br /> 19 process for a person going through Community Resource Court and how it differs from other parts <br /> 20 of the criminal justice system. <br /> 21 <br /> 22 The Board of Commissioners read the proclamation in turn: <br /> 23 <br /> 24 ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS <br /> 25 PROCLAMATION <br /> 26 RECOGNIZING THE 25T"ANNIVERSARY OF <br /> 27 COMMUNITY RESOURCE COURT <br /> 28 <br /> 29 WHEREAS, for 25 years, the Orange County Community Resource Court has served as a <br /> 30 pioneering initiative to address the unique needs of individuals with mental health conditions and <br /> 31 other challenges who come into contact with the justice system; and <br /> 32 WHEREAS, this innovative diversionary court program was established to promote rehabilitation, <br /> 33 stability, and accountability by providing support and access to vital mental health services, <br /> 34 substance use treatment, and community resources rather than relying on traditional court <br /> 35 processes and punitive measures; and <br /> 36 WHEREAS, Community Resource Court has fostered partnerships between judges, attorneys, <br /> 37 mental health professionals, law enforcement, advocates, service providers, and community <br /> 38 partners, all of whom work together as a team to support participants in achieving positive <br /> 39 outcomes; and <br /> 40 WHEREAS, Community Resource Court has played a crucial role in reducing recidivism, <br /> 41 enhancing public safety, saving money, and promoting healthier, more stable lives for participants; <br /> 42 and <br /> 43 WHEREAS, Community Resource Court has been a model specialty court that many other <br /> 44 jurisdictions have sought to adopt and replicate; and <br />