Name
James Murtari
Title
Restorative Case Manager (RCM)
Program
Restorative Case Management, Diversion Programs
Region
Finger Lakes HUB, Auburn, NY
Time with Cayuga Centers
Since 2024
James Murtari, a Restorative Case Manager with Cayuga Centers’ Diversion Programs in Auburn, New York, brings a unique blend of discipline, compassion, and vision to his role. Drawing on his military service and experience with youth, James has built a career focused on empowering young people to make better choices and build brighter futures.
About Restorative Case Management (RCM)
The Restorative Case Management program provides youth with alternatives to traditional juvenile justice involvement, emphasizing accountability, personal growth, and community support. By helping young people address the root causes of their behavior, RCM aims to reduce recidivism and support long-term success.
Learn more about Cayuga Centers Restorative Case Management Program
Why James Chose A Career at Cayuga Centers
James’ journey began with four years of active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps, followed by earning a degree in Business Administration and pursuing Sociology at Syracuse University. While in school, he worked part-time and volunteered with the United Way’s Book Buddies program, where he discovered his passion for guiding and supporting youth. He later worked in residential care for the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (NYS-OCFS), but found himself wanting the opportunity to offer support and mentorship before it reached that point of crisis.
“I wanted to help youth before they ended up in residential care, and prevent those paths from becoming their future.”
A Day in the Life
James’ days are filled with structured support and meaningful interactions with the young people he serves. He meets with youth once or twice per week, depending on their needs. “We meet them where they’re at,” he explains. If a referral comes from a school or if a student is struggling academically, James makes a point to meet with them both in school and in the community.
Many of his sessions take place at the Cayuga Centers Recreation Center on Osborne Street, a favorite spot among youth. The facility includes a gymnasium, a weight room, and table games such as pool and air hockey, creating a comfortable and engaging environment. “Doing an activity promotes better, easier conversation with less stress and anxiety for the youth,” James shares. From mentorship sessions to school visits, every day offers an opportunity to help a young person see their potential more clearly. He describes his work as dynamic and deeply rewarding.
“My favorite aspects of the job include empowering youth, assuring them that their previous experiences do not define their futures, and providing them with the tools to make positive life choices.”
A Spark for Change
One of James’ most memorable experiences highlights the power of persistence and encouragement. A young person he worked with was on probation, struggling with grief, alcohol abuse, and failing classes. Through weekly meetings and ongoing conversations, James encouraged him to focus on his future. The young man began staying after school for extra help and eventually received a positive progress report.
“He ran out to show me his report card with excitement and told me he passed. That spark leads to great success down the road, and not only was I able to witness the moment, I was a part of it.”
Leading with Purpose
For James, Restorative Case Management is about more than redirecting behavior—it’s about empowerment and giving youth the chance to reclaim their story. His dedication ensures that young people not only avoid negative outcomes but also discover the endless positive outcomes that lie ahead. James Murtari is a mentor and a guide who helps young people see that brighter futures are attainable. If you are inspired by James’ story and want to make a difference in the lives of youth and families, explore career opportunities at Cayuga Centers.
