Lindsey Smith (’18), Staff Attorney at Juvenile Law Center, authored an opinion for The Philadelphia Inquirer citing her recent report spotlighting the harmful impact of restitution on youth, victims and communities, and advocating restorative options that work better for everyone (“Youth Restitution Fails Victims, Communities, and Young People,” Aug. 4). “[W]e should focus on repairing harm, restoring relationships, and preventing court involvement for young people. . . . We know young people do better when they have the resources they need for positive development and successful transitions to adulthood. Real community safety comes from investment in education, positive youth activities, and social safety nets to address food insecurity and provide health care. We must replace youth restitution with the healing, restorative, and equitable alternatives already within our reach.”