In February 2003, CASES began operating the Community Service Project in Staten Island Criminal Court. CSP participants are individuals who have committed low-level offenses and are sentenced to perform community service, for periods of varying length, at government agencies and non-profit organizations. The program thus allows participants to fulfill their obligations to the court while playing an important public service role in their communities.

Illustrative worksites include:

• NYC Housing Authority (sites include Berry Houses, Mariners Harbor, Richmond Terrace Houses, South Beach, Todt Hill, West Brighton, and Stapleton Houses)
• NYC Department of Sanitation
• Neighborhood Housing Services
• East Shore Little League
• NYC Department of Environmental Protection.

The project was recognized in 2006 for its service in the Bluebelt Region with Certificates of Merit and Recognition from the New York State Assembly and the New York City Council.

Enrollment

The program enrolls individuals who have committed low-level offenses and are mandated by Staten Island Criminal Court Judges.

Referrals to Staten Island CSP

Services

• Community service placement - CASES assesses participants for impediments to performing community service, places participants at worksites run by the host organization, and ensures participants' compliance. Participants perform a range of work that includes painting, repairs, trash removal, light renovations, demolition, grounds work, community garden maintenance, cleaning and clearing store areas, and clerical assistance.