Juvenile Court Diversion Program

ADAPT is a nonprofit organization that has been empowering youth across Central and Northern New Hampshire for over 30 years. Our mission is to support young people in making positive contributions to their communities and futures through restorative, community-based approaches.

Our Diversion Program:

ADAPT’s Juvenile Court Diversion Program offers youth an opportunity to take accountability for their actions while avoiding a juvenile court record. This referral-only program supports youth in repairing harm caused by their behavior through open dialogue, education, and service; ultimately promoting personal growth and reducing recidivism.

Program Highlights:

● Community-Based Solutions: Youth meet with a trained volunteer panel to discuss their case and co-create a Reparative Agreement tailored to their needs and strengths.

● Accountability & Support: Participants complete 3–6 months of individualized goals including education, community service, restitution, and written apologies.

● Holistic Services: We provide or connect youth with substance misuse education, counseling, case management, evaluations, and more.

● Successful Completion: Youth who fulfill their agreement (attend panels, complete all goals, pay applicable fees/restitution) exit the program with no juvenile court conviction.

Referral Process

Referrals are submitted by Grafton County police departments, school staff, or juvenile probation officers. Once accepted, youth and their families complete an intake process and begin their path forward. Through this collaborative and restorative approach, youth take meaningful responsibility, harmed parties find closure, and stronger community connections are built.