The Municipal Court of Atlanta announced that it will launch Restore Atlanta, formerly Community Court, at a free health fair to provide checkups, immunizations and physicals for returning students on Saturday, July 29 at 150 Garnett Street from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  Restore Atlanta takes a non-traditional approach to helping offenders by using sentencing alternatives and legal sanctions to promote rehabilitation. The initiative aims to provide young, first time offenders who commit low level crimes to maintain a clean record by completing rehabilitation programs.

“The Municipal Court of Atlanta is pleased to offer Restore Atlanta to young offenders who deserve a second chance,” said Marcus Sabbs, Director of Restore Atlanta.  “Through this program, the Court will provide resources that will allow participants to build better, and more productive lives. I encourage residents to attend the health fair to not only receive information on the initiative, but have access free checkups, physicals, back-to-school supplies and more.”

Restore Atlanta will work closely with the community by appointing residents to restorative boards who are interested in revitalizing their neighborhoods and ending the cycle of recidivism. The initiative will ensure that out-of-custody defendants register for programs such as Teens Learning Control (TLC) and Restorative Board. TLC is for young drivers, ages 17 through 20, who are convicted of driving offenses.  The program includes innovative tactics designed to educate and deter future negative driving behaviors.  The Restorative Board will connect participants to the community through the guidance and mentoring of board members, and through involvement in other court ordered sanctions including community service projects.  Other low-level crimes eligible for the program include: possession of marijuana, theft by shoplifting, and disorderly conduct.