CJI - Community Justice Initiatives

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.

Agency Orientation (virtual)
2025-09-08 19:00 - 20:30, 2025-10-07 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York)
Our agency orientation is a great first step to learn more about our organizations history, programs, training, initiatives as well as current and upcoming opportunities to volunteer with us. Offered virtually, participants will receive a zoom link to join on the morning of the orientation.

Transformative Mediation Training September 23-26, 2025 (In Person)
2025-09-23 08:30 - 2025-09-26 16:30 (America/Toronto) | Conrad Grebel University College, 40 Westmount Rd N, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G6, Canada
Transformative Mediation Training (In Person) September 23-26, 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 August 26, 2025, at which point tickets will be $695.00.

Facilitated Dialogue Trg: Virtual Oct 1-2, 3, 7-9 2025
2025-10-01 13:00 - 17:00 (America/Toronto) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training

Stride Night Training October 4 & 18, 2025 (In-Person)
2025-10-04 09:30 - 15:30 (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 two Saturdays: October 4th (10am-4pm) and October 18th (9:30am-3:30pm).
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:
Training is valued at $200.00 (not including the reliability clearance cost of $65). 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 Mel at melhl@cjiwr.com.
We are incredibly grateful for your interest in becoming a volunteer and supporting the Stride program!
If you have any questions about applying to Stride, 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.

Agency Orientation (Virtual)
2025-11-17 19:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York)
Our agency orientation is a significant first step to learn more about our organization’s history, programs, training, initiatives, as well as current and upcoming volunteer opportunities. Offered virtually, participants will receive a Zoom link to join on the morning of the orientation.

Transformative Mediation Training November 19-21, 25-28 2025 - Virtual
2025-11-19 08:30 - 2025-11-28 12:30 (America/Toronto) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
Transformative Mediation Training (Virtual) November 19th-21st and 25th-28th, 2025 – 8:30am – 12:30pm 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 October 29, 2025, at which point tickets will be $695.00.

CJI Presents: Justice Merch
2025-11-19 12:00 - 2025-12-16 13:00 (America/Toronto)
November 17-21, 2025 is Restorative Justice Week, an opportunity to celebrate progress and co-shape the future.
We’re finally doing it! Stay tuned this week for the release of our freshly designed justice merch line – made to start a conversation and to last. All profits are to fundraise for Stride; our beloved program that supports incarcerated folks with connection and reintegration.

[COMING SOON]

Restorative Justice Week Presents: FREE RJ 101 WORKSHOP (online)
2025-11-20 15:00 - 16:00, 2025-11-27 17:00 - 18:00, 2025-12-02 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Toronto) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
November 17-21, 2025 is Restorative Justice Week, an opportunity to celebrate progress and co-shape the future.
Inherent to restorative justice is the knowing that the work of justice and healing is all of ours. But, we take on the responsibility of inviting, supporting, and equipping community to be a part it. In that spirit, we’re thrilled to offer some free training starting this Restorative Justice Week.
Restorative Justice 101 is a 1-hour workshop delivered by CJI practitioners that offers an entry-level orientation to the lenses and frameworks of restorative justice as distinct from other justice worldviews coupled with understanding of relevant principles and practices through the exploration of ones own relationship to justice.
Join CJI staff Kamil Ahmed and Henna Sheikh for this engaging offering.
Claim your free spot while tickets last!

Restorative Justice Week Presents: FREE RJ 101 WORKSHOP (in-person)
2025-12-12 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto) | CJI Office, 85 Edwin Street, Kitchener, Ontario, N2H 4N7, Canada

Agency Orientation Online
2026-01-12 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York)
Our agency orientation is a great first step to learn more about our organization’s history, programs, training, initiatives, and current and upcoming volunteer opportunities. Offered virtually, participants will receive a Zoom link to join on the morning of the orientation. Note that registration for the agency orientation will close the Friday before the selected date.

Transformative Mediation Training February 4-6 + 10-13 2026 (Virtual)
2026-02-04 08:30 - 2026-02-13 12:30 (America/New_York) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
Transformative Mediation Training (Virtual) February 4-6 and 10-13, 2026 8:30am – 12:30pm each day
Join us for an immersive Transformative Mediation Training designed to cultivate deep listening, empathy, and conflict resolution skills through the lens of restorative justice. Grounded in the principles of recognition, empowerment, and mutual understanding, this training equips participants with the tools to support individuals in navigating conflict with authenticity and care.
Unlike traditional approaches that focus on resolving issues or reaching agreements, transformative mediation emphasizes shifting the quality of conflict interaction—encouraging personal growth, relational repair, and increased capacity for dialogue. Participants will learn to stay present in difficult conversations, support self-determination, and foster constructive engagement, even in high-conflict situations.
Ideal for community leaders, educators, justice practitioners, and anyone committed to healing-centered practices, this training includes:

Fundamental frameworks of Restorative Justice
Core frameworks of transformative mediation
Skills-based practice in reflective listening and multi-partial facilitation
Role-plays based on real-life conflict scenarios
Exploration of power dynamics, trauma, and cultural context in mediation
Guidance on applying these principles in community, organizational, or justice settings

Led by experienced restorative practitioners, this training supports a shift from managing conflict to transforming relationships—honoring the humanity of all involved.

Build your capacity to be a presence for peace. Transform conflict into connection.

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 7, 2026 at which point tickets will be $999

Meet the Trainers
Jason Spencer
Jason Spencer is a Program Director at Community Justice Initiatives (CJI), where he supports a range of mediation services. He holds a BA in Sociology from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Certificate in Conflict Management and Mediation from Conrad Grebel University College. As a mediator and training facilitator, Jason draws on his knowledge and experience to help individuals and organizations navigate conflict and build understanding. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, camping, and kayaking, as well as gaming and reading.

Gabrielle McInnis
Gabrielle “Gaby” McInnis (BA, MA) is a Service Coordinator at Community Justice Initiatives (CJI), where she works across Elder Mediation Services and Restorative Responses to Harm or Crime. Gaby holds a Bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies and Peace and Conflict Studies and a Master’s degree in Peace and Conflict Studies from the University of Waterloo. Gaby’s work is grounded in restorative justice, mediation, and trauma-informed practice, with a strong focus on equity, decolonization, and relational accountability. She has supported older adults, families, and community members in navigating conflict, harm, and complex decision-making, ensuring processes centre safety, dignity, and meaningful participation. Through facilitating mediations, restorative dialogues, and peer support relationships, Gaby works to amplify voice, build understanding, and strengthen relationships.

Agency Orientation (Virtual)
2026-02-25 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | https://cjiwr.com/event/agency-orientation-virtual-6/
Welcome to Community Justice Initiatives (CJI). Our agency orientation is an important first step in getting to know our organization and the work we do. During the session, you’ll learn about CJI’s history, programs, training, initiatives, and current and upcoming volunteer opportunities.
Attendance at an agency orientation is required for all volunteers. If you require any accommodations, please email your request in advance so we can support your participation. A Zoom link will be emailed to registered participants prior to the session.
Agency orientations are held monthly. If you are unable to attend this session, we look forward to welcoming you at the next one.
Contact: laurenb@cjiwr.com

Webinar: What to expect from a Restorative Justice Process as a Survivor of Sexual Harm
2026-03-04 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Toronto) | https://cjiwr.com/event/webinar-what-to-expect-from-a-restorative-justice-process-as-a-survivor-of-sexual-harm/
March 4th, 2026, 3-4pm (Virtual)
Have you ever been curious about what happens in a restorative justice process for survivors of sexual harm? Are you interested in learning more about restorative justice to help you or someone you care about decide if it could be a helpful process?
This webinar is intended to demystify what happens in a restorative process by providing survivors of all genders, as well as their supporters, an overview of CJI’s restorative justice approach to sexual harm. In this one hour session, you will learn the values that are foundational to this work, but also the practical steps that survivors can choose to move through as they work with facilitators to prepare for a conversation about the harm they experienced. The webinar format allows for anonymous participation.

There will be time allotted for questions at the end of the 45 minute presentation.
Claim your free spot while tickets last!

Agency Orientation (Virtual)
2026-03-24 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | https://cjiwr.com/event/agency-orientation-virtual-7/

Webinar: What to expect from a Restorative Justice Process as a Survivor of Sexual Harm
2026-04-16 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Toronto) | https://cjiwr.com/event/webinar-what-to-expect-from-a-restorative-justice-process-as-a-survivor-of-sexual-harm-2/
April 16th, 2026, 12-1PM (Virtual)
Have you ever been curious about what happens in a restorative justice process for survivors of sexual harm? Are you interested in learning more about restorative justice to help you or someone you care about decide if it could be a helpful process?
This webinar is intended to demystify what happens in a restorative process by providing survivors of all genders, as well as their supporters, an overview of CJI’s restorative justice approach to sexual harm. In this one hour session, you will learn the values that are foundational to this work, but also the practical steps that survivors can choose to move through as they work with facilitators to prepare for a conversation about the harm they experienced. The webinar format allows for anonymous participation.

There will be time allotted for questions at the end of the 45 minute presentation.
Claim your free spot while tickets last!

Facilitated Dialogue Training April 21-23 + 28-30, 2026 (Virtual)
2026-04-21 13:00 - 2026-04-30 17:00 (America/Toronto) | Online – Zoom link to be sent close to day 1 of training
Facilitated Dialogue Training for Sexual Harm (Virtual) April 21-23 + 28-30, 2026 1:00pm-5:00pm EST each day
An advanced 24-hour training for practitioners committed to restorative justice in the context of justice and healing from sexual harm
Facilitated Dialogue (FD) is the core model our agency uses to support survivors of sexual harm who wish to engage in a restorative process with the person(s) who harmed them. This training is designed for practitioners who are ready to deepen their skills and who intend to use restorative justice specifically in situations of sexual harm. It is not a training about whether restorative justice is appropriate for sexual violence; instead, it teaches how to steward this work ethically, safely, and with great care.
Grounded in restorative justice values and shaped by trauma-informed, survivor-centered practice, Facilitated Dialogue expands on Transformative Mediation and basic understanding of sexual harm to meet the unique relational, emotional, and systemic complexities of sexual harm. Participants learn how to accompany people impacted by sexual harm including survivors and those who have caused harm as well as others impacted like family or friends through a rigorous, multi-stage process that centers choice, readiness, accountability, and safety.
Developed for practitioners with foundational mediation experience and trauma-informed training, this program offers a rare opportunity to learn a specialized approach used across individual, family, workplace, and community contexts. It also acknowledges the truth of this work: Facilitated Dialogue is a practice that requires ongoing reflection, mentorship, and skill stewardship. This training is an entry point into a deeper discipline, not a standalone qualification.
Through group learning, individual reflection, case examples, structured observation, and immersive role-play, participants gain a working understanding of the FD model—from first contact to preparation, dialogue, and follow-up—even as they continue developing the judgment required for real-life cases.
What the Training Covers

The values and commitments that ground Facilitated Dialogue
The full FD process and its application to cases of sexual harm
Building relationships of trust: meeting participants and assessing readiness
Case development with survivors
Case development with those who have caused harm
Dialogue facilitation and follow-up
Safety planning and risk management throughout the process
How to move forward when dialogue is not appropriate or not possible
Skill practice through role-plays and observation
Considerations for mentorship and real-world application

Who This Training Is For
This training is designed for practitioners who:

have foundational knowledge of Transformative Mediation (or equivalent),
have familiarity and experience working with sexual harm and/or gender-based violence
have experience with trauma-informed support, and
are seeking to build the specific skills needed to practice restorative justice in situations of sexual harm.

This training is required for all Revive Facilitated Dialogue volunteers.’
If you questions or concerns around if this training is right for you, connect with Revive Program Coordinator, Julie Schelter at julies@cjiwr.com.
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 March 24, 2026 at which point tickets will be $999

Meet the Trainers
Kate Crozier
Prior to working at CJI, Kate spent most of her career working with women impacted by violence. She has spent 20 years working to address the impacts of gender-based violence through a mix of feminist anti-violence work which included counselling, advocacy, practical support and restorative justice work. Both of these fields of work have fed her interest in tackling both personal and systemic issues through non-carceral pathways. Kate brings to this training, 7+years of experience working with and training others in Facilitated Dialogue as well as a depth of experienced working with survivors, people who have caused sexual harm and their families. Throughout this time, she has provided supervision to FD practitioners and fellow trainers. In addition to supporting the team at CJI, Kate offers coaching to the leadership team for a restorative justice organization in Australia.

Kelly Rico

I came to restorative justice in 2009 following more than a decade of lay work in addiction recovery. There, experiencing how community fosters a genuine and sustainable healing justice made restorative justice a natural fit. I first interned with Community Justice Initiatives’ Revive program between 2009 – 2010 as part of Queen’s University’s Restorative Justice Diploma program. As a survivor, I was laser-focused on being part of (then very rare) initiatives that provided spaces for those who harmed to assume accountability in human-centred ways. I was transformed by the people and the work at CJI and have been volunteering with Revive ever since as co-facilitator with the PWOS program (People Who Offend Sexually), with Survivor Circles, and with the Facilitated Dialogue program. My current role with CJI is supporting practitioners at Transforming Justice Australia as they evolve their first national program for restorative justice and sexual harm. I also hold a Diploma in Conflict Analysis and Mediation (Conrad Grebel College) and a Masters in Human Security and Peacebuilding (Royal Roads University). My MA thesis explored restorative justice applications for conflict-related sexual violence in Colombia’s peace process. I was a community of practice member with the Courage to Act project that developed a roadmap for university administrators to work restoratively with people who have caused harm in campus settings. I am currently a restorative practitioner with Canada’s Department of National Defence. I am also a formal student with the New York Zen Center for Contemplative Care, a practice that helps deepen the embodied, heart-centred work inherent in restorative justice. I love this work and have a profound faith – based in real evidence, with real people – that when we create and hold a space of trust, patience, honesty, care, and presence, we can transform lives out of some of the most acute harm. It is always a joy to share this work and to support others in their own journey with it.
