History of PiRI
While completing his Master’s degree in Restorative Justice at Eastern Mennonite University in March 1998, Will Bontrager
gathered members of Rochester’s governmental departments, nonprofit agencies, victim advocacy groups and interested individuals to introduce them to the
principles of restorative justice.
Less than two years later, in May 2000, Bontrager founded the Finger Lakes
Restorative Justice Center (FLRJC). The Judicial Process Commission of Rochester offered support and served as a fiduciary until the FLRJC received its own status as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity in 2002.
On May 28, 2008 members and supporters gathered to celebrate a new phase in the life of the FLRJC. Funded by the Hope Grant, the organization changed its name to Partners in Restorative Initiatives, highlighting its
commitment to forging relationships and initiating
restorative practices with clients, community members and other organizations.