Editor’s Note: Yvonne “Maati” Platts is a member of Mosaic’s Board and a member of Nueva Vida Norristown (PA) New Life. A version of this article was printed in the Norristown Patch.
Yvonne “Maati” Platts, a member of Nueva Vida Norristown (PA) New Life, was recently nominated by one of her students to be featured in the Norristown Patch, a local newspaper, as a community hero. Congratulations, Maati!
Below is an excerpt of the nomination:
What does this community leader do?
For decades, Maati has been a staunch supporter, leader, and mentor of restorative justice circles and practices throughout Norristown.
Why do you believe the community leader should be recognized?
Two years ago, Maati gathered members of the community to create Restorative Norristown. This organization:
- Promotes the use of restorative practices in schools, community and institutions
- Offers training in restorative practices for youth and adults
- Provides mediation services for anyone who has experienced violence and injustice
What’s one thing you want everyone to know about this community hero?
She is tireless and completely dedicated to the use of restorative circles. Restorative Circles can:
- address incidents of conflict and harm that occur between individuals or groups
- build empathy, promote collaboration, and nurture respect
- build healthier communities and partnerships
- restore relationships
- support those experiencing trauma
- reduce the negative impact from unjust systems
The opinions expressed in articles posted on Mosaic’s website are those of the author and may not reflect the official policy of Mosaic Conference. Mosaic is a large conference, crossing ethnicities, geographies, generations, theologies, and politics. Each person can only speak for themselves; no one can represent “the conference.” May God give us the grace to hear what the Spirit is speaking to us through people with whom we disagree and the humility and courage to love one another even when those disagreements can’t be bridged.