Initiatives for Just Communities walks with people with Fetal
Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and intellectual disabilities, and those
currently or previously incarcerated, to help them to achieve a
better quality of life for themselves and their communities.
In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, IJC's vision remains the same, that “everyone belongs and flourishes in community. No one walks alone.” Covid-19 has created challenges, and IJC has modified services in order to continue supporting participants, while adhering to physical distancing guidelines.
Who We Are
Initiatives for Just Communities is a non-profit, charitable organization that is committed to restorative justice practices. IJC works to create communities where each person, particularly the stigmatized and the vulnerable, has a place to belong.
Four programs run through IJC:
- Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA) – supports the healthy reintegration of people with high-risk offence cycles as they are released from prison and settle back into the community.
- El’dad – provides residential support, vocational training and assistance, and support for men and women with intellectual disabilities.
- Open Circle – encourages volunteers to visit individuals in prison and offer caring non-judgemental support.
- Touchstone – provides case management and direct individualized support to adults and older youth with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.
What We Value
— All People
As part of creation, we see each person as having infinite value and necessary for a healthy community. Thus, we respect each person, and believe in their goodness.
— Community
We seek to build community with our participants and in so doing, strengthen the broader community.
— Compassion
We offer welcome and accompaniment, without judgement, to all on the journey.
— Restorative Justice
To promote healing of the individual and the community, we seek to repair harm and restore the individual and the community to honest, transparent and trusting relationships.
— Advocacy
We value hearing those who are often unheard, and honour their story. We work to ensure their voices are heard both within and outside our organization.
— Transparency
We promote and model honesty and integrity in all our work, because these are critical for true community to flourish.
