Elaine Johnson is from the Bronx, in New York City, and has been living in Santa Cruz for 20 years. For as early as Elaine could remember, community, collaboration and working toward a playing field that is leveled for all to have access to has always been at the forefront of her mind and what has led her to do the work that she does. In her childhood, she saw people she knew entering the criminal justice system and not have the means to access programs that would assist in the healing, restoration, diversion, or recidivism to make a change. She has always had a love for the law and vowed to do what she could to bring about change.

 

Elaine spent several years mentoring students as a way of supporting youth to reach for their highest potential regardless of any barriers that may have been placed in their way. Elaine is also the founder of the Santa Cruz County Neighborhood Courts Program, a diversion program that serves participants throughout Santa Cruz County. Elaine has worked in the fields of juvenile dependency, Community and Divorce mediation, criminal law, and has extensive experience working in collaboration in Santa Cruz County in restorative justice, housing, mentoring programs, (Santa Cruz County High School Mock Trail and Elementary Law program). Elaine is committed to her continued work with community leaders of all levels throughout the County of Santa Cruz.

 

Elaine holds a bachelor’s degree from Binghamton University in Political Science and a Juris Doctorate from Monterey College of Law. Elaine is a certified mediator and currently serves on several boards, which includes Encompass Community Services, Monarch Services, Your Future Is Our Business. She is Past President of Women Lawyers of Santa Cruz County, a Member of Rise Together Coalition, serves on the Santa Cruz Police Chief Advisory team, and is a member of the Santa Cruz County Bar Association. Elaine served on the Executive Committee of the NAACP Santa Cruz County Branch, as a board member at Inner Light Ministries, and has been a member of the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Advisory Team.

 

Elaine enjoys singing gospel music, and lives in Live Oak with her partner Shinehah.