Dennis “Denny” Maloney
The Youth-Driven Award was formerly named in the memory of Dennis Maloney, an individual whose dedication to youth-based restorative justice is still being heralded and followed today. As NACRJ continues to reflect on how we recognize leadership and contribution, we have shifted toward award names that center collective impact while still honoring those who helped shape the field. Dennis Maloney’s contributions to youth engagement and restorative justice remain an important part of NACRJ’s history.
Dennis Maloney or “Denny” as he was better known, was a charismatic, larger-than-life leader who was influential in the community and restorative justice movement. Having attended Ohio State University as a proud Buckeye, Denny served his alma mater and fellow community and restorative justice peers well.
His achievements included the establishment of community and restorative justice initiatives in the Deschutes County (Oregon) juvenile justice system. In addition, the Balanced and Restorative Justice (BARJ) project continues to influence the juvenile justice system in a number of states. His work has inspired many of the leaders in today’s community and restorative and justice fields.