Eau Claire County Deflection Program
A voluntary alternative to legal system involvement, rooted in support - not punishment.
Life doesn’t always go as planned.
The Eau Claire County Deflection Program offers a different path—one that keeps people out of the justice system and connects them to support before things escalate.
This program is 100% voluntary and supports people who are ready to explore recovery, start healing, or take the next right step - whatever that looks like. At The Roots LLC is honored to provide peer support as part of this county-led initiative.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility and referrals are managed entirely through Eau Claire County.
To participate, individuals must:
Be 18 or older
Live in Eau Claire County
Be open to completing assessments and working with a case manager
Meet criteria for ongoing support after initial assessment
How referrals work:
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First Responder or Officer Referral
During service calls, officers or first responders may offer a deflection referral, providing a direct connection to support after contact with law enforcement.
If you’ve had an encounter with police that didn’t result in an arrest, a referral may have already been made for you.
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Community or Self Referral
Support doesn’t have to start with law enforcement. If you or someone you know could benefit from a connection to services, you can submit a referral directly.
If you're unable to fill out or send the form, you’re welcome to email or call the program directly with the information. The Deflection team can help guide next steps or answer any questions.
where
we
come in
At The Roots provides peer support services to individuals who are referred through the Eau Claire County Deflection Program. Once someone is connected to the program and determined eligible, they may be offered support from our peer professionals as part of their plan.
Our team brings their own lived experience with recovery, mental health, or legal system involvement. They’re trained to walk alongside people in a nonjudgmental, person-centered way - offering encouragement, shared understanding, and support navigating life’s challenges.
We don’t tell people what to do. We listen, share what’s helped us, and support others in finding their own path forward - whether that’s about recovery, stability, or something else entirely.
PROGRAM Contact info:
Libby Richter
Deflection Case Manager
ECC Human Services
721 Oxford Avenue, Suite 1001
Eau Claire, WI 54703
Phone:
715-829-8628
Email:
elizabeth.richter@eauclairecounty.gov
Contact Our Team: