With a $2,000 donation from an unnamed local attorney, the Genesee Justice Foundation has been born.
At a meeting on Dec. 17, according to a press release, nine community members gathered to start the process of forming a nonprofit corporation in order to raise money to pay for a fully functional restorative justice program in Genesee County.
The pioneering program was threatened with elimination earlier because of the county's' budget crunch. The program was saved, at least temporarily, when director Ed Minardo offered to accept a layoff and current Genesee Justice staff members agreed to reduced hours.
The cuts eliminated approximately $100,000 in expenses, giving Genesee Justice at least a one-year reprieve.
The initial donation will help cover start-up costs for the foundation.
Anyone interested in joining the effort to save Genesee Justice, or to donate, can contact Jane Schmider, (585) 738-8292.
For previous coverage, click here.
