Volunteer Stories

Revive Volunteer “CJI listens to real needs and creatively adapts to solve them effectively.” After a CJI Christmas potluck filled with good food, conversation, and lighthearted joking, a man thanked Kelly Rico and wondered out loud why she’d want to work with people like him. Kelly co-facilitates a CJI peer support group for people who haveRead more

I was introduced to CJI in 2005. At the time, I was pursuing Sociology with an option in Legal Studies and Criminology from the University of Waterloo. My journey with CJI began as a co-facilitator for the Revive program. I was part of two different groups – survivors of sexual abuse and offenders of sexualRead more

I am in constant amazement by the positive impacts of using Restorative Justice practices in the community, and in a pioneering agency that is CJI. I have always been driven to become involved with those trying to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system, though it wasn’t until I was immersed in CJI’s programs thatRead more

I recently completed my undergraduate studies and majored in Peace and Conflict Studies and Fine Arts. I am currently associated with CJI’s New Canadian Youth Connection program since the past year. I first learned about Restorative Justice at my university after taking a course about the same. It is an important concept because of itsRead more

Twenty years ago, Phil Maier took a course in workplace conflict mediation at CJI paid for by his employer. He had no idea what he was getting himself into. Recognizing some natural ability, the CJI trainer encouraged Phil to take a conflict mediator training course. After taking the course, Phil began volunteering at CJI. BeforeRead more

I have been a volunteer with CJI’s Revive program for over 14 years. The program supports women, men, and youth over 18, who are impacted by sexual trauma through education and peer support groups and one-to-one services. CJI also offers services for partners, families, and communities impacted by sexual harm. As a volunteer, I haveRead more