Restitution may be in cash or in services amounting to a specific dollar value. Most frequently ordered in property crimes, restitution provides an alternative to incarceration, thereby reducing public costs while compensating victims. Some offenders are required to provide services that benefit the entire community, such as cleaning up parks or working in nursing homes. This is a form of restitution that allows juveniles to contribute routine but worthwhile services. Community service projects must be clearly identified, and the juveniles in these programs must be properly supervised.
Volunteers are often available to tutor youths and to supervise work and recreational activities.
They may also provide an additional service to youths as friends, role models, and listeners. Like regular employees, volunteers require training, specific job descriptions, and supervision.