Offender Aid & Restoration · Jefferson Area Community Corrections
Second chances, built one person at a time.
We provide safe, evidence-based alternatives to incarceration across Central Virginia — and we believe in helping people lead successful lives.
Funded by & serving all 9 localities — Charlottesville, Albemarle, Fluvanna, Goochland, Greene, Louisa, Madison, Nelson & Orange
As human and hopeful as the work itself.
Who we are
Offender Aid and Restoration is a private nonprofit dedicated to safe, evidence-based, and cost-effective alternatives to incarceration. We believe in second chances — and in walking alongside people as they rebuild.
From pretrial through reentry, our work is funded by federal, state and local government, private foundations, and the community we serve.
How we help
Six ways we open a door.
Our programs
Pretrial Services
Validated risk assessment that helps judges make informed release and bond decisions — and supervision for those released on bond.
Local Probation
Supervision for misdemeanor and class 5/6 felony offenders — a real alternative to incarceration under the Community Corrections Act.
Recovery Courts
Drug treatment and intensive supervision for non-violent offenders, with incentives and a path to reduced charges.
Reentry Services
OAR's first program, since 1971 — IDs, transportation, emergency food & clothing, employment help and long-term case management.
Therapeutic Docket
A court-supervised behavioral-health program for defendants living with serious and persistent mental illness.
Recovery Services
Recovery is possible, and guidance from people who've walked this path themselves and found recovery for themselves — can make all the difference.
New client information
Please call us at 434 296-2441 immediately upon referral by the Court or release from incarceration. Bring all Court paperwork, photo ID, and proof of residence to your first appointment.
What happens at my first appointment?
We’ll talk about your situation and review your Court paperwork. It lasts around an hour. From there, you’ll be directed to the appropriate program — and our journey starts together.
Everyone in the office really do care — and saved my life.
“OAR is one of the first places in the legal system that actually cares about us.”
“Treated me like an actual human, unlike other agencies.”
“They brought back my faith in the judicial system.”
Hope, backed by research.
Evidence-based & data-informed
Decades of research prove recidivism can be predicted and reduced. We implement a proven six-point model — and our Criminal Justice Planner publishes 35+ reports guiding safer decisions across the region.
DONATE
Help us open the next door.
Your gift removes obstacles, restores opportunity, and helps people build healthier futures. Together, we create measurable, lasting change.
Make a donation