Agency Orientation February 26 2024 (virtual)
2024-02-26 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Toronto)
Our Agency Orientation is the first step toward becoming a volunteer with Community Justice Initiatives (CJI). In this orientation, participants will learn about the history of CJI, as well as how we continue to evolve and expand our programs/services. We will share the pre-requisite training required for each program area, as well as current and emerging volunteer openings. We look forward to answering any questions you might have. We will send you the online meeting invitation via email on the day of February 26, 2024.
This orientation will be held online.

Transformative Mediation Training Virtual Feb 28, 29 & Mar 1, 5-8
2024-02-28 08:30 - 12:30 (America/Toronto) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
Transformative Mediation Training – Virtual Feb 28, 29 & Mar 1, 5-8 2024 – 8:30am – 12:30pm

This workshop emphasizes the development of practical skills to resolve interpersonal conflict and to facilitate mediation.
The workshop explores skills and develops strategies that enhance effective communication and are essential when facilitating conflict resolution.
Role-plays and interactive exercises to integrate theory and practice are an essential part of the training; coaches assist with the role-plays. Conrad Grebel University College and Community Justice Initiatives certificates will be awarded to each participant upon
successful completion of the workshop.

Tax Receipts: CJI does not provide a tax letter as we are not a recognized educational organization.
This does not mean you cannot claim the expense. It depends on each individual’s situation, which can be addressed by a tax accountant.

Withdrawal/Refund Policy: Pre-paid registrants may receive a refund, less a $100.00 administrative fee, if notice is received in writing (letter, email) four weeks prior to the start date of a workshop. If notification is received less than four weeks prior to the start date no refund is issued. However, credit may be applied toward another date or workshop. A $100.00 administrative fee is applied to a transfer in dates.

Non –Attendance: Non-attendance of a registrant at a workshop without notification does not constitute withdrawal and no refund or transfer is applicable.
If notification is provided in writing (letter, email) four weeks prior to the commencement of a workshop transfer is permitted within a one year period. Consideration will be made for “exceptional” circumstances (illness, compassionate grounds). Please note that a $100.00 administrative fee applies to all transfers.

Cancellation Policy: CJI reserves the right to cancel any workshop due to unforeseen circumstances.

Absenteeism/Class Attendance: As professionals who are interested in co-creating a high quality learning experience, we know that your commitment to the workshop includes attending all of the training dates. Because we are committed to offering a professional program, we need to ensure that individuals who receive our certificates have actually covered the full curriculum.

Transfer: Transfers are dependent upon availability of space in a workshop. A $100.00 administrative fee applies for a transfer of part of a workshop to another date.

Please note: early bird rate ends January 31, 2024, at which point tickets will be $675.00.

Waterloo Region Community Justice Centre Launch
2024-03-07 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Toronto) | THE MUSEUM, 10 King St. W., Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
50 years of service to Waterloo Region later, Community Justice Initiatives is thrilled to invite you to a celebration of our people and the launch of your Community Justice Centre.
Imagine a just community
Launch of the Waterloo Region Community Justice Centre
Thursday, March 7, 2024
6:30 to 9 pm; doors open 6 pm
At THEMUSEUM
10 King St. W. Kitchener
Building upon and learning from decades of restorative justice work, the Community Justice Centre – as both a vision and project – seeks to be a catalyst for increased collective capacity around addressing the roots of deeply entrenched social challenges.
From inviting collaboration on restorative approaches to housing and homelessness to fostering youth champions of self-determined change and so much more; the Community Justice Centre is your community partner for upstream, prevention-focused practices.
So, on March 7, won’t you Imagine a Just Future with us?

Kick-off with a special celebration of volunteers, the evening will invite you into the generative work of the Community Justice Centre.
Share your ideas through collective mural-making with artist, Pamela Rojas.
Connect with community members and local justice visionaries over hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.
Vibe to the musical stylings of Metis musician Eric Jackson and his alt-country/folk group, the Willow River Band.

From casual to formal: Dress in a way that is comfortable and reflective of you!

Tickets $25/pp. Order on Eventbrite
Sliding scale available. If financial assistance is supportive or if you have questions, please reach out to Mel Horvath-Lucid.

Agency Orientation March 25 (virtual)
2024-03-25 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Toronto)
Our Agency Orientation is the first step toward becoming a volunteer with Community Justice Initiatives (CJI). In this orientation, participants will learn about the history of CJI, as well as how we continue to evolve and expand our programs/services. We will share the pre-requisite training required for each program area, as well as current and emerging volunteer openings. We look forward to answering any questions you might have. We will send you the online meeting invitation via email on the day of March 25, 2024.
This orientation will be held online.

Facilitated Dialogue Trg: Virtual Apr 8-10 & 15-17 2024
2024-04-08 13:00 - 17:00 (America/Toronto) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
Facilitated Dialogue expands upon Transformative Mediation, teaching a through trauma informed framework. It is rooted in Restorative Justice, and is one of the most important foundational tools for anyone engaging in restorative practices.
This diverse training is designed for people with a foundation in mediation and trauma awareness to learn about Facilitated Dialogue in response to sexual harm. Facilitated Dialogue is a tool for all Restorative Justice practitioners to have in their wheelhouse, an approach used in engaging in dialogue about the impacts of sexual harm across circumstances, with individuals or families, workplaces and community groups.
CJI’s Facilitated Dialogue training combines group learning, individual reflection, and interactive role-play to support your learning. Please note that Facilitated Dialogue is considered an advance training, and requires participants to have foundational Transformative Mediation knowledge, as well as current understanding of trauma-informed support best practice.
Learning Objectives

Grounding our Work
Introduction to the Facilitated (FD) process
Meeting the Participants
Case Development: with the person who was harmed
Case Development: with the person who caused harm
Dialogue and Follow up including:

Risk Management and Safety Planning
How to proceed when dialogue isn’t possible
Role play
Observation

If you would like some further information about Transformative Mediation or trauma to prepare for this training, please reach out to Kate Crozier to be connected with some helpful resources.

Stride Night Training April/May 2024
2024-04-15 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Toronto)
Our Stride Night training is for people who are interested in joining our Stride program. This 12-hour training will happen on 4 Monday evenings from 6-9pm:
April 15, 22, 29 and May 6.
The core learning goals of this training are:

To understand the history of women’s federal prisons in Canada
To understand the experiences of people who are incarcerated
To discuss power and privilege and how it impacts our identities and opportunities
To learn Stride’s values and gain an understanding of Stride Nights and your role as a volunteer

Before you register, please fill out the pre-screening survey here to indicate your interest in the program. Once we consider your application, we may invite you for an introductory conversation about your interest in the program. Once that conversation has happened, we welcome you to register for the training here.
Cost of Training:
We want this training to be accessible to everyone who is part of Stride, and therefore we are offer 3 options for contributions: $200, $100, or no cost.

Stride Night training is valued at the price of $200 (not including the reliability clearance cost of $65).
Stride relies on contributions from community members to sustain its work. If you’re able, we ask that you contribute $200 when you register for this unique training opportunity.
We are incredibly grateful for your interest in becoming a volunteer and supporting the Stride program!
If you have any questions about this process or want more information, please contact Amelia at ameliam@cjiwr.com.
Note: We run Stride Night training 3 times per year. If you are interested in applying in the future, you can fill out the survey and note that you are interested in the next available training.

Revive Group Facilitation Training May/June 2024 (Virtual)
2024-05-06 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Toronto)
This 21-hour training takes place over 7 Monday evenings between May – June, 2024. Specifically, we will be meeting virtually from 6-9pm on May 6, 13, 27, and June 3, 10, 17 and 24th. We welcome registrants with lived experience and especially welcome male and non-binary volunteers. Attendance to all 7 sessions are required in order to move forward as a volunteer. If a session is missed, we will do our best to offer a make-up session, however, there are some pieces of the training that cannot be replicated one-to-one.

Revive relies on financial contributions from the community to run our programs and trainings. This training is valued at $450.00. We want this training to be accessible to everyone, and therefore we are offering four options for contributions. When registering for training by selecting a ticket, please choose from one of the following options to support the work of this important program:

$450
$300
$150
No Cost

We are incredibly grateful for your interest in becoming a volunteer and supporting Revive! If you have any questions about this process or want more information, please contact Mel at melhl@cjiwr.com.
Those registering are required to take Part 1 of our training, Restorative Justice and Sexual Harm 101, before participating in the facilitation training. If you would like to attend or watch a recording of Part 1, please email Julie at Julies@cjiwr.com

Agency Orientation May 27 (virtual)
2024-05-27 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Toronto)
Our Agency Orientation is the first step toward becoming a volunteer with Community Justice Initiatives (CJI). In this orientation, participants will learn about the history of CJI, as well as how we continue to evolve and expand our programs/services. We will share the pre-requisite training required for each program area, as well as current and emerging volunteer openings. We look forward to answering any questions you might have. We will send you the online meeting invitation via email on the day of Monday May 27, 2024.
This orientation will be held online.

Transformative Mediation Training June 12-15 2024 in person
2024-06-12 08:30 - 16:30 (America/Toronto) | Conrad Grebel University College, 40 Westmount Rd N, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G6, Canada
Transformative Mediation Training – In Person June 12-15 2024 – 8:30am – 4:30pm

This workshop emphasizes the development of practical skills to resolve interpersonal conflict and to facilitate mediation.
The workshop explores skills and develops strategies that enhance effective communication and are essential when facilitating conflict resolution.
Role-plays and interactive exercises to integrate theory and practice are an essential part of the training; coaches assist with the role-plays. Conrad Grebel University College and Community Justice Initiatives certificates will be awarded to each participant upon
successful completion of the workshop.

Tax Receipts: CJI does not provide a tax letter as we are not a recognized educational organization.
This does not mean you cannot claim the expense. It depends on each individual’s situation, which can be addressed by a tax accountant.

Withdrawal/Refund Policy: Pre-paid registrants may receive a refund, less a $100.00 administrative fee, if notice is received in writing (letter, email) four weeks prior to the start date of a workshop. If notification is received less than four weeks prior to the start date no refund is issued. However, credit may be applied toward another date or workshop. A $100.00 administrative fee is applied to a transfer in dates.

Non –Attendance: Non-attendance of a registrant at a workshop without notification does not constitute withdrawal and no refund or transfer is applicable.
If notification is provided in writing (letter, email) four weeks prior to the commencement of a workshop transfer is permitted within a one year period. Consideration will be made for “exceptional” circumstances (illness, compassionate grounds). Please note that a $100.00 administrative fee applies to all transfers.

Cancellation Policy: CJI reserves the right to cancel any workshop due to unforeseen circumstances.

Absenteeism/Class Attendance: As professionals who are interested in co-creating a high quality learning experience, we know that your commitment to the workshop includes attending all of the training dates. Because we are committed to offering a professional program, we need to ensure that individuals who receive our certificates have actually covered the full curriculum.

Transfer: Transfers are dependent upon availability of space in a workshop. A $100.00 administrative fee applies for a transfer of part of a workshop to another date.

Please note: early bird rate ends May 15, 2024, at which point tickets will be $675.00.

Stride Circles Training June 2024
2024-06-29 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Toronto)
Our Stride Circles training is for Stride Night volunteers who are interested in being circle trained. This training is happening on two Saturdays in June and July: Saturday, June 29th 10am – 4pm and Saturday, July 6th 10am – 4pm.
The core learning goals of this training are as follows:

To understand best practices for creating a healthy circle
To become equipped to work through challenges in a circle
To understand the role of the circle coordinator and the circle volunteer
To understand the needs of a person reintegrating into a community

This training is valued at the price of $200.00. Supporting the cost of this training helps sustain the work of Stride. We want this training to be accessible to everyone who is part of Stride, and therefore we are offering three options for contributions. Please RSVP for training by selecting the ticket that is best for you – either $200, $100, or no cost. We are incredibly grateful for your time, care, and contributions as volunteers and for your ongoing support for the Stride program!
The first step before becoming Circle Trained is becoming a Stride Night volunteer, and volunteering for at least 6 months. If you are interested in becoming a Stride volunteer, please reach out to Amelia at ameliam@cjiwr.com.

Agency Orientation July 15 (Virtual)
2024-07-15 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Toronto) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
Our Agency Orientation is the first step toward becoming a volunteer with Community Justice Initiatives (CJI). In this orientation, participants will learn about the history of CJI, as well as how we continue to evolve and expand our programs/services. We will share the pre-requisite training required for each program area, as well as current and emerging volunteer openings. We look forward to answering any questions you might have. We will send you the online meeting invitation via email on the day of Monday July 15, 2024 at 7 PM.
This orientation will be held online.

Agency Orientation August 13th (Virtual)
2024-08-13 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Toronto) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
Our Agency Orientation is the first step toward becoming a volunteer with Community Justice Initiatives (CJI). In this orientation, participants will learn about the history of CJI, as well as how we continue to evolve and expand our programs/services. We will share the pre-requisite training required for each program area, as well as current and emerging volunteer openings. We look forward to answering any questions you might have. We will send you the online meeting invitation via email on the day of Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at 7 PM.
This orientation will be held online.

Educator Training Aug 26 & 27 2024
2024-08-27 10:00 - 14:30 (America/Toronto)
Level 1: Exploring Restorative Justice for your school community
This session will introduce the core values and principles of restorative justice within a school community using an upstream approach. Key concepts include: being in relationship with yourself, the importance of engaging students through relationship building, and sharing power. The training includes opportunities for self-reflection through talking circles and practical skill-building through small group activities. Educators are invited to explore how to apply a relational approach to their classrooms and school communities.
This training is open to any educators or administrators who are learning about upstream restorative justice for the first time or for those who are looking for a refresher. A copy of the Little Book of Restorative Justice in Education by Katherine Evans and Dorothy Vaandering will be provided as well as booklet of course content.

Please contact Kim Moore at Kimm@cjiwr.com or 519 744 6549 ext 270 for further information
Cost $200.00 – introductory rate is $100.00 till Aug 21 2024
Location: Kitchener, in person only. Address will be provided after registration.
Dates:
Part #1 August 26 from 10:00am-2:30pm
Part #2 August 27 from 10:00am-2:30pm
Total Time: 8 hours over 2 days
Lunch: We’ll take a 30 minute break for lunch. Please bring your own lunch.

Transformative Mediation Training Sept 10-13 2024 [CANCELLED]
2024-09-10 08:30 - 16:30 (America/Toronto) | Conrad Grebel University College, 40 Westmount Rd N, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G6, Canada
Transformative Mediation Training – In Person September 10 – 13 2024 – 8:30am – 4:30pm

This workshop emphasizes the development of practical skills to resolve interpersonal conflict and to facilitate mediation.
The workshop explores skills and develops strategies that enhance effective communication and are essential when facilitating conflict resolution.
Role-plays and interactive exercises to integrate theory and practice are an essential part of the training; coaches assist with the role-plays. Conrad Grebel University College and Community Justice Initiatives certificates will be awarded to each participant upon
successful completion of the workshop.

Tax Receipts: CJI does not provide a tax letter as we are not a recognized educational organization.
This does not mean you cannot claim the expense. It depends on each individual’s situation, which can be addressed by a tax accountant.

Withdrawal/Refund Policy: Pre-paid registrants may receive a refund, less a $100.00 administrative fee, if notice is received in writing (letter, email) four weeks prior to the start date of a workshop. If notification is received less than four weeks prior to the start date no refund is issued. However, credit may be applied toward another date or workshop. A $100.00 administrative fee is applied to a transfer in dates.

Non –Attendance: Non-attendance of a registrant at a workshop without notification does not constitute withdrawal and no refund or transfer is applicable.
If notification is provided in writing (letter, email) four weeks prior to the commencement of a workshop transfer is permitted within a one year period. Consideration will be made for “exceptional” circumstances (illness, compassionate grounds). Please note that a $100.00 administrative fee applies to all transfers.

Cancellation Policy: CJI reserves the right to cancel any workshop due to unforeseen circumstances.

Absenteeism/Class Attendance: As professionals who are interested in co-creating a high quality learning experience, we know that your commitment to the workshop includes attending all of the training dates. Because we are committed to offering a professional program, we need to ensure that individuals who receive our certificates have actually covered the full curriculum.

Transfer: Transfers are dependent upon availability of space in a workshop. A $100.00 administrative fee applies for a transfer of part of a workshop to another date.

Please note: early bird rate ends Aug 13, 2024, at which point tickets will be $675.00.

Stride Night Training Fall 2024
2024-09-16 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Toronto)
Our Stride Night training is for people who are interested in joining our Stride program. This 12-hour training will happen on 4 evenings from 6-9pm:
September 16, September 23, October 3 and October 7
The core learning goals of this training are:

To understand the history of women’s federal prisons in Canada
To understand the experiences of people who are incarcerated
To discuss power and privilege and how it impacts our identities and opportunities
To learn Stride’s values and gain an understanding of Stride Nights and your role as a volunteer

Before you register, please fill out an application here to indicate your interest in the program. Once we consider your application, we may invite you for an introductory conversation about your interest in the program. Once that conversation has happened, we welcome you to register for the training here.
Cost of Training:
We want this training to be accessible to everyone who is part of Stride, and therefore we are offer 3 options for contributions: $200, $100, or no cost.

Stride Night training is valued at the price of $200 (not including the reliability clearance cost of $65).
Stride relies on contributions from community members to sustain its work. If you’re able, we ask that you contribute $200 when you register for this unique training opportunity.
We are incredibly grateful for your interest in becoming a volunteer and supporting the Stride program!
If you have any questions about this process or want more information, please contact Amelia at ameliam@cjiwr.com.
Note: We run Stride Night training 3 times per year. If you are interested in applying in the future, you can fill out the survey and note that you are interested in the next available training.

Annual General Meeting
2024-09-18 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Toronto) | WalterFedy, 675 Queen St. S. #111, Kitchener, Ontario, N2M 1A1, Canada
You are invited to attend
Community Justice Initiatives’ Annual General Meeting
7:00 pm, September 18, 2024
Walter Fedy , 675 Queen St. S. Suite 111
Kitchener, On
Onsite parking available.
RSVP by September 9, 2024
Chris Cowie, our former director, will be attending the AGM. Please stop in and say goodbye and thank you to Chris for his 15 years of stellar leadership!
Also say hello to our Interim Executive Director, and long-time staff member, Kate Crozier.

If you are a CJI member, please be prepared to vote on amendments to CJI’s bylaws so that we can comply with the province’s new Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (ONCA). Review our by-laws
If you are a member and can’t attend the event, please complete a PROXY form to allow one of our board members to vote on your behalf.
We look forward to seeing you at the event.
Read our 2023-2024 Annual Report.

Stride Circles Training October 2024
2024-10-19 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Toronto) | CJI Office, 85 Edwin Street, Kitchener, Ontario, N2H 4N7, Canada
Our Stride Circles training is for Stride Night volunteers who are interested in being circle trained. This training is happening on two Saturdays in October: Saturday October 19, 10-4pm at CJI and Saturday October 26, 10-4pm at CJI. Participants need to attend BOTH days. When you register on October 19, you are also registered for the 26 training.
The core learning goals of this training are as follows:

To understand best practices for creating a healthy circle
To become equipped to work through challenges in a circle
To understand the role of the circle coordinator and the circle volunteer
To understand the needs of a person reintegrating into a community

This training is valued at the price of $200.00. Supporting the cost of this training helps sustain the work of Stride. We want this training to be accessible to everyone who is part of Stride, and therefore we are offering three options for contributions. Please RSVP for training below by selecting the ticket that is best for you – either $200, $100, or no cost. We are incredibly grateful for your time, care, and contributions as volunteers and for your ongoing support for the Stride program!
Contact juliac@cjiwr.com if you have questions.
The first step before becoming Circle Trained is becoming a Stride Night volunteer, and volunteering for at least 6 months. If you are interested in becoming a Stride volunteer, please reach out to at ameliam@cjiwr.com.

Transformative Mediation Training Nov 13-15 & 19-22 2024 -Virtual
2024-11-13 08:30 - 12:30 (America/Toronto) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
Transformative Mediation Training – Virtual November 13-15 & 19-22, 2024 – 8:30am – 12:30pm

This workshop emphasizes the development of practical skills to resolve interpersonal conflict and to facilitate mediation.
The workshop explores skills and develops strategies that enhance effective communication and are essential when facilitating conflict resolution.
Role-plays and interactive exercises to integrate theory and practice are an essential part of the training; coaches assist with the role-plays. Conrad Grebel University College and Community Justice Initiatives certificates will be awarded to each participant upon
successful completion of the workshop.

Tax Receipts: CJI does not provide a tax letter as we are not a recognized educational organization.
This does not mean you cannot claim the expense. It depends on each individual’s situation, which can be addressed by a tax accountant.

Withdrawal/Refund Policy: Pre-paid registrants may receive a refund, less a $100.00 administrative fee, if notice is received in writing (letter, email) four weeks prior to the start date of a workshop. If notification is received less than four weeks prior to the start date no refund is issued. However, credit may be applied toward another date or workshop. A $100.00 administrative fee is applied to a transfer in dates.

Non –Attendance: Non-attendance of a registrant at a workshop without notification does not constitute withdrawal and no refund or transfer is applicable.
If notification is provided in writing (letter, email) four weeks prior to the commencement of a workshop transfer is permitted within a one year period. Consideration will be made for “exceptional” circumstances (illness, compassionate grounds). Please note that a $100.00 administrative fee applies to all transfers.

Cancellation Policy: CJI reserves the right to cancel any workshop due to unforeseen circumstances.

Absenteeism/Class Attendance: As professionals who are interested in co-creating a high quality learning experience, we know that your commitment to the workshop includes attending all of the training dates. Because we are committed to offering a professional program, we need to ensure that individuals who receive our certificates have actually covered the full curriculum.

Transfer: Transfers are dependent upon availability of space in a workshop. A $100.00 administrative fee applies for a transfer of part of a workshop to another date.

Please note: early bird rate ends October 16, 2024, at which point tickets will be $675.00.

Agency Orientation January 7 (Virtual)
2025-01-07 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Toronto) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
Our Agency Orientation is the first step toward becoming a volunteer with Community Justice Initiatives (CJI). In this orientation, participants will learn about the history of CJI, as well as how we continue to evolve and expand our programs/services. We will share the pre-requisite training required for each program area, as well as current and emerging volunteer openings. We look forward to answering any questions you might have. We will send you the online meeting invitation via email on the day of Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 7 PM.
This orientation will be held online.

Transformative Mediation Training Jan 22-24 & 28-31 2025 -Virtual
2025-01-22 08:30 - 12:30 (America/Toronto) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
Transformative Mediation Training – Virtual January 22 – 24 & 28 – 31 2025 – 8:30am – 12:30pm

This workshop emphasizes the development of practical skills to resolve interpersonal conflict and to facilitate mediation.
The workshop explores skills and develops strategies that enhance effective communication and are essential when facilitating conflict resolution.
Role-plays and interactive exercises to integrate theory and practice are an essential part of the training; coaches assist with the role-plays. Conrad Grebel University College and Community Justice Initiatives certificates will be awarded to each participant upon
successful completion of the workshop.

Tax Receipts: CJI does not provide a tax letter as we are not a recognized educational organization.
This does not mean you cannot claim the expense. It depends on each individual’s situation, which can be addressed by a tax accountant.

Withdrawal/Refund Policy: Pre-paid registrants may receive a refund, less a $100.00 administrative fee, if notice is received in writing (letter, email) four weeks prior to the start date of a workshop. If notification is received less than four weeks prior to the start date no refund is issued. However, credit may be applied toward another date or workshop. A $100.00 administrative fee is applied to a transfer in dates.

Non –Attendance: Non-attendance of a registrant at a workshop without notification does not constitute withdrawal and no refund or transfer is applicable.
If notification is provided in writing (letter, email) four weeks prior to the commencement of a workshop transfer is permitted within a one year period. Consideration will be made for “exceptional” circumstances (illness, compassionate grounds). Please note that a $100.00 administrative fee applies to all transfers.

Cancellation Policy: CJI reserves the right to cancel any workshop due to unforeseen circumstances.

Absenteeism/Class Attendance: As professionals who are interested in co-creating a high quality learning experience, we know that your commitment to the workshop includes attending all of the training dates. Because we are committed to offering a professional program, we need to ensure that individuals who receive our certificates have actually covered the full curriculum.

Transfer: Transfers are dependent upon availability of space in a workshop. A $100.00 administrative fee applies for a transfer of part of a workshop to another date.

Please note: early bird rate ends December 24, 2024, at which point tickets will be $675.00.

Agency Orientation Feb 24 2025
2025-02-24 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York)
Our Agency Orientation is the first step toward becoming a volunteer with Community Justice Initiatives (CJI). In this orientation, participants will learn about the history of CJI, as well as how we continue to evolve and expand our programs/services. We will share the pre-requisite training required for each program area, as well as current and emerging volunteer openings. We look forward to answering any questions you might have. We will send you the online meeting invitation via email on the day of February 24th, 2025 by 7 PM.
This orientation will be held online.

Facilitated Dialogue Trg: Virtual Mar 18-20 & 25-27 2025
2025-03-18 13:00 - 17:00 (America/Toronto) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
Facilitated Dialogue expands upon Transformative Mediation, teaching through a trauma informed framework. It is rooted in Restorative Justice, and it is one of the most important foundational tools for anyone engaging in restorative practices.
This training is designed for people with a foundation in mediation and trauma informed practices to learn about Facilitated Dialogue in response to sexual harm. Facilitated Dialogue is an approach to harm for all Restorative Justice practitioners to have in their wheelhouse, an approach used in engaging in dialogue about the impacts of sexual harm across circumstances, with individuals or families, workplaces and community groups.
CJI’s Facilitated Dialogue training combines group learning, individual reflection, and interactive role-play to support your learning. Please note that Facilitated Dialogue is considered an advance training, and it requires participants to have foundational Transformative Mediation knowledge (or equivalent), as well as current understanding of best practice for offering trauma-informed support.
Learning Objectives
1. Grounding our Work
2. Introduction to the Facilitated (FD) process
3. Meeting the Participants
4. Case Development: with the person who was harmed
5. Case Development: with the person who caused harm
6. Dialogue and Follow up
Training includes:

Discussions of risk management and safety planning
How to proceed when dialogue is not possible
Role play
Observation

If you would like some further information about Transformative Mediation or trauma informed practice to prepare for this training, please reach out to Kate Crozier to be connected with some helpful resources.

Agency Orientation March 19 2025
2025-03-19 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
Our Agency Orientation is the first step toward becoming a volunteer with Community Justice Initiatives (CJI). In this orientation, participants will learn about the history of CJI, as well as how we continue to evolve and expand our programs/services. We will share the pre-requisite training required for each program area, as well as current and emerging volunteer openings. We look forward to answering any questions you might have. We will send you the online meeting invitation via email on the day of March 19th, 2025 by 11am.
This orientation will be held online.

Agency Orientation (Virtual)
2025-04-09 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York)
Our Agency Orientation is the first step toward becoming a volunteer with Community Justice Initiatives (CJI). In this orientation, participants will learn about the history of CJI, as well as how we continue to evolve and expand our programs/services. We will share the pre-requisite training required for each program area, as well as current and emerging volunteer openings. We look forward to answering any questions you might have. We will send you the online meeting invitation via email on the day of June 30th by 12pm. This orientation will be held online.

Agency Orientation April 28 2025
2025-04-28 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
Our Agency Orientation is the first step toward becoming a volunteer with Community Justice Initiatives (CJI). In this orientation, participants will learn about the history of CJI, as well as how we continue to evolve and expand our programs/services. We will share the pre-requisite training required for each program area, as well as current and emerging volunteer openings. We look forward to answering any questions you might have. We will send you the online meeting invitation via email on the day of April 28th 2025 by 7pm.
This orientation will be held online.

Stride Night Training Spring 2025 - May 5th, 12th, 22nd & 26th [In-Person]
2025-05-05 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Toronto) | CJI Office, 85 Edwin Street, Kitchener, Ontario, N2H 4N7, Canada
Our Stride Night training is for people who are interested in joining our Stride program. This 12-hour training will happen on 4 evenings from 6-9pm:
May 5th, 12th, 22nd and 26th, 2025
The core learning goals of this training are:

To understand the history of women’s federal prisons in Canada
To understand the experiences of people who are incarcerated
To discuss power and privilege and how it impacts our identities and opportunities
To learn Stride’s values and gain an understanding of Stride Nights and your role as a volunteer

Before you register, please fill out an application here to indicate your interest in the program. Once we consider your application, we may invite you for an introductory conversation about your interest in the program. Selected applicants will be invited to register for the training.
Cost of Training:
We want this training to be accessible to everyone who is part of Stride, and therefore we are offer 3 options for contributions: $200, $100, or no cost.

Stride Night training is valued at the price of $200 (not including the reliability clearance cost of $65). Stride relies on contributions from community members to sustain its work. If you’re able, we ask that you contribute $200 when you register for this unique training opportunity.
We are incredibly grateful for your interest in becoming a volunteer and supporting the Stride program!
If you have any questions about this process or want more information, please contact Haval at havala@cjiwr.com.
Note: We run Stride Night training 2 times per year. If you are interested in applying in the future, you can fill out the survey and note that you are interested in the next available training.

Revive Group Facilitation Training May/June 2025 in Person
2025-05-06 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Toronto)
Revive Group Facilitation training is a 21-hour in person training designed to build awareness of the issues impacting people impacted by sexual harm and build the skills to support them in peer groups. This training curriculum is the pathway to becoming a Revive Group Facilitation Volunteer at CJI and co-facilitate a group alongside an experienced volunteer starting in September 2025. Included in this training is information on understanding the impacts on and needs of survivors, offenders and their families. Speakers with lived experience will share their experiences of restorative responses to the harm they experienced or caused. Adults of all genders and with no previous experience with this work are welcome to register. We especially welcome those with lived experience to register.
Prior to training, the Facilitation team will send out materials to view prior to the first day of training. Those hoping to volunteer with Revive must complete this component.
Following training, those wanting to volunteer will be invited into an interview process to talk about the next steps.
This 21-hour training takes place over 7 Tuesday evenings between May – June 2025. Specifically, we will be meeting from 6-9pm on May 6, 13, 20, 27, and June 3, 10 and 17, 2025. We welcome registrants with lived experience and especially welcome male and non-binary volunteers. Attendance to all 7 sessions is required in order to move forward as a volunteer. If a session is missed, we will do our best to offer a make-up session, however, there are some pieces of the training that cannot be replicated one-to-one.

Revive relies on financial contributions from the community to run our programs and trainings. This training is valued at $450.00. We want this training to be accessible to everyone and therefore we have implemented a $300.00 fee for this training
We are incredibly grateful for your interest in becoming a volunteer and supporting Revive! If you have any questions about this process or want more information, please contact Mel at melhl@cjiwr.com.
Those registering will be sent a digital recording of some training content to review before the first day of training as well as a few reflection questions to respond to and submit. It will take approximately 45 minutes total, to complete both components. If you would like to get that recording without delay, please email Julie at julies@cjiwr.com

Transformative Mediation Training June 10-13, 2025 (In Person)
2025-06-10 08:30 - 2025-06-13 16:30 (America/Toronto) | Conrad Grebel University College, 40 Westmount Rd N, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G6, Canada
Transformative Mediation Training (In Person) June 10th-13th, 2025 (8:30am – 4:30pm each day)

This workshop emphasizes the development of practical skills to resolve interpersonal conflict and to facilitate mediation.
The workshop explores skills and develops strategies that enhance effective communication and are essential when facilitating conflict resolution.
Role-plays and interactive exercises to integrate theory and practice are an essential part of the training; coaches assist with the role-plays. Conrad Grebel University College and Community Justice Initiatives certificates will be awarded to each participant upon
successful completion of the workshop.

Tax Receipts: CJI does not provide a tax letter as we are not a recognized educational organization.
This does not mean you cannot claim the expense. It depends on each individual’s situation, which can be addressed by a tax accountant.

Withdrawal/Refund Policy: Pre-paid registrants may receive a refund, less a $100.00 administrative fee, if notice is received in writing (letter, email) four weeks prior to the start date of a workshop. If notification is received less than four weeks prior to the start date no refund is issued. However, credit may be applied toward another date or workshop. A $100.00 administrative fee is applied to a transfer in dates.

Non –Attendance: Non-attendance of a registrant at a workshop without notification does not constitute withdrawal and no refund or transfer is applicable.
If notification is provided in writing (letter, email) four weeks prior to the commencement of a workshop transfer is permitted within a one year period. Consideration will be made for “exceptional” circumstances (illness, compassionate grounds). Please note that a $100.00 administrative fee applies to all transfers.

Cancellation Policy: CJI reserves the right to cancel any workshop due to unforeseen circumstances.

Absenteeism/Class Attendance: As professionals who are interested in co-creating a high quality learning experience, we know that your commitment to the workshop includes attending all of the training dates. Because we are committed to offering a professional program, we need to ensure that individuals who receive our certificates have actually covered the full curriculum.

Transfer: Transfers are dependent upon availability of space in a workshop. A $100.00 administrative fee applies for a transfer of part of a workshop to another date.

Please note: early bird rate ends May 13, 2025, at which point tickets will be $695.00.

Agency Orientation (Virtual)
2025-06-30 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York)
Our Agency Orientation is the first step toward becoming a volunteer with Community Justice Initiatives (CJI). In this orientation, participants will learn about the history of CJI, as well as how we continue to evolve and expand our programs/services. We will share the pre-requisite training required for each program area, as well as current and emerging volunteer openings. We look forward to answering any questions you might have. We will send you the online meeting invitation via email on the day of June 30th, by 12pm.
This orientation will be held online.

Stride Circles Training September 6 & 20, 2025
2025-09-06 10:00 - 16:00 (America/Toronto) | CJI Office, 85 Edwin Street, Kitchener, Ontario, N2H 4N7, Canada
Our Stride Circles training is for Stride Night volunteers who are interested in being Circle trained. This training is happening on two Saturdays in September: Saturday September 6, 10am-4pm at CJI and Saturday September 20, 10-4pm at CJI. Participants need to attend both days. When you register on this page for the September 6th session, you are also registering for September 20th session.
The core learning goals of this training are as follows:

To understand best practices for creating a healthy circle
To become equipped to work through challenges in a circle
To understand the role of the circle coordinator and the circle volunteer
To understand the needs of a person reintegrating into a community

Circle training is valued at $200.00. As a non-profit organization, we rely on training fees and financial contributions to sustain and expand this work. CJI is dedicated to equipping community members with restorative justice skills and providing opportunities to practice them through our programs.
We recognize that cost can be a barrier, so partial and full bursaries are available to support volunteers in accessing training. If you’d like to discuss supported options, please reach out to Amelia at ameliam@cjiwr.com or Mel at melhl@cjiwr.com
We are incredibly grateful for your time, care, and contributions as volunteers and for your ongoing support for the Stride program!
The first step before becoming Circle Trained is becoming a Stride Night volunteer, and volunteering for at least 6 months. If you are interested in becoming a Stride volunteer, please reach out to at havala@cjiwr.com.
