The theme of this year’s Law Day was Liberty under Law: "Empowering Youth, Assuring Democracy".

Jim is the Deputy Director of Program and Staff Development for the CSSD, overseeing the CSSD Training Academy and the Judicial Branch Community Service Labor Program (CSLP). His career has included many activities that demonstrate the concept of civic responsibility and working with youth. He teaches criminal justice at Central Connecticut State University and has coached high school basketball for many years. A number of his players have gone on to play in Division I and II college programs.

Since joining the Branch in 1992 as a consultant, he has exposed thousands of youthful offenders to unique “giving back” experiences where they work on projects that enhance the quality of life for Connecticut communities through his work with the CSLP and alternative to incarceration programming. CSLP clients have provided thousands of volunteer hours to major charities and non profit groups, including the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Association and the CT Special Olympics.

Recently, Jim accepted a community service leadership award from the Special Olympics on behalf of the Branch in recognition of the service provided by CSLP clients. Community service crews have also helped build over forty playscapes for young children, many of which are handicapped accessible.

Since 1999 Jim has also overseen the development and operation of the CSSD Training Academy which provides multi disciplinary professional pre and in service training for all staff.

In accepting the award, Jim thanked Former Chief Court Administrator Judge Aaron Ment, Chief Court Administrator  Judge William Lavery, and CSSD Executive Director William Carbone “These individuals provided me with the strong support needed to create an innovative and effective alternative network of community based sanctions” Greene said. Judge Lavery noted Jim’s “service and tireless commitment to making a difference in the lives of so many people.”  CSSD’s Bill Carbone has known Jim for 25 years.  “Jim has advocated effectively during his long career to improve services and opportunities for people involved in the criminal justice system.”  Carbone said. “He is an example of the finest in public service and I am very proud to have had the opportunity to have worked with him.”