Initiatives for Just Communities Inc.

Initiatives for Just Communities Inc. is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting restorative justice practices and supporting vulnerable populations. The organization operates on a mission to help individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, intellectual disabilities, and those currently or previously incarcerated to achieve a better quality of life for themselves and their communities.

History

Initiatives for Just Communities Inc. evolved from community justice programs under the Mennonite Central Committee of Manitoba. In 2010, it became a separate nonprofit entity, housing four key programs: Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA), El’dad, Open Circle, and Touchstone.

Programs

• Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA): Focuses on supporting the healthy reintegration of high-risk individuals released from prison, creating a supportive community environment to prevent reoffending.
• El’dad: Provides residential support, vocational training, and assistance for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• Open Circle: Offers non-judgmental support through volunteer visits to individuals in prison.
• Touchstone: Delivers case management and individualized support to adults and older youth with intellectual disabilities.

Values

Initiatives for Just Communities Inc. is guided by several core values:

• Value of All People: Every person is seen as having infinite value, necessary for a healthy community.
• Community: Building and strengthening community connections is central to their work.
• Compassion: Providing welcome and accompaniment without judgment.
• Restorative Justice: Aiming to repair harm and restore trusting relationships within communities.
• Advocacy: Ensuring the voices of often unheard individuals are respected and heard.
• Transparency: Promoting honesty and integrity in all operations.

Vision and Mission

The vision of Initiatives for Just Communities Inc. is for everyone to belong and flourish in community, while its mission is to walk alongside vulnerable populations, helping them achieve a better quality of life.