Programs
What We Do and Why We Do It
I think the challenge is to figure out how we can breathe and live and share our faith without fear, yet give someone else space.
It’s not enough just to be right and figure out the solution. It’s how do we create a solution that works for all of us, regardless of what our faith or politics are. We can find that common ground. The thing that’s so exciting at the Center for Justice is that we look at a problem and we try to get it solved in a way that works for people. We’re playing for people’s hearts and minds.–CFJ Chief Catalyst, Breean Beggs.
The Center for Justice is constantly evolving as we pursue our goals of bringing the experience of justice to all corners of the communities we serve. Because our primary mission is to help those who lack resources get access to the justice system, we carefully consider every request for assistance. But it’s also part of our mission to make the best use of our limited resources. We try to do this by paying particular attention to causes and cases that are more likely to have a signal or transcending effect toward achieving a more just, accountable, and environmentally sustainable society.
Community Advocacy coordinator Suellen Pritchard (left) and client-turned volunteer Stacey Green
Our assistance falls into two categories: direct representation and our Community Advocacy program. Our Community Advocacy program recognizes that not all people who require assistance need to file a lawsuit to obtain a just and timely resolution of their problem.
When we directly represent people, we usually do so for those who are unfairly denied consumer protection, employment, government benefits, housing, and public accommodation, as well as individuals and organizations seeking to preserve the rights of free expression and government disclosure. In addition, we aid those trying to protect the environment and we have a special focus on redressing police and other governmental misconduct.
Part of the Center’s evolution has been to sharpen our focus on environmental and land use issues in which all of us have a stake. Our Spokane River project is the centerpiece of this effort. Likewise, we have given increased attention to government accountability and transparency, so that all citizens can at least have the access to open meetings and public records to which the law entitles them. Our Open Government Accountability Project is the centerpiece of that effort.