A Westchester organization that aids justice-impacted individuals recognized the accomplishments of their members at a celebration dinner in Pelham on Wednesday.
The annual recognition event, hosted by the Youth Shelter Program of Westchester, was called "This is What Justice Looks Like."
"They are doing amazing things, and we have to showcase that... That's the power of restorative justice," said program director Jordan Cormier.
The celebration dinner took place at The Rail House in Pelham. Twelve people were recognized.
"You know, being honored is just... I have no words," said honoree Sean Bailey.
Honoree Andrew P. said the honor symbolized getting a second chance at life.
"A lot of times it feels like we're alone in a community where there's a lot of people around you, and it feels hard to get a voice," said Andrew P.
Mount Vernon City Court Judge Lyndon Williams said there was a good chance that he presided over some of the member's cases in the past.
Fast forward to the event on Wednesday, he said he couldn't be prouder of the honorees for moving their lives forward.
"They have made a commitment to work through the Youth Shelter program and to succeed, and I believe when we are at a point when we see certificates handed out and we see celebrations, that's celebrations of success," the judge said.
