Saskatoon Restorative Action Program Inc.

The Saskatoon Restorative Action Program Inc. (RAP) is a Canadian nonprofit organization focused on providing restorative action programming and support services primarily for youth in high schools across Saskatoon and surrounding areas. Established to address issues such as bullying, violence, mental health challenges, conflict, and crime among young people, RAP aims to foster safer, healthier, and more supportive school communities through conflict resolution and relationship-building strategies.

History and Background

RAP began operations in 2003 at Mount Royal Collegiate in Saskatoon. Since its inception, the program has expanded to serve multiple high schools and communities across the province of Saskatchewan, including locations like North Battleford, with recent expansions also into Alberta. The program has evolved significantly over the years, strengthening its model and impact through key partnerships and ongoing evaluation efforts, including collaboration with the Centre for Forensic Behavioural Science and Justice Studies at the University of Saskatchewan to assess its effectiveness[4].

Mission and Objectives

The program’s core mission is to break cycles of bullying, conflict, crime, and other social challenges faced by youth by providing a trusted, judgment-free space for one-on-one relationship building and conflict resolution. RAP facilitators work directly within schools to help students confront personal issues and develop constructive alternatives to negative behaviors, thereby empowering youth and contributing to safer communities[1][2].

Program Delivery and Approach

RAP facilitators are skilled professionals trained in mediation, conflict resolution, harm reduction, and social dynamics. They work closely with students, school staff, caregivers, and community partners to provide tailored support that addresses the root causes of conflict and personal challenges faced by youth. The program is designed to fill the gap between normal school supervision and police involvement, ensuring that students remain engaged in their education while addressing serious issues like bullying, violence, mental health struggles, substance abuse, and self-harm[3].

Serving over 8,000 youth annually in nine high schools throughout Saskatoon, RAP facilitators deliver programming that emphasizes healing, accountability, and relationship repair, enabling students to understand the real-life impact of their choices and fostering hope for positive change[2][3].

Partnerships and Community Involvement

RAP operates through a strong network of partnerships with local and provincial governments, school divisions (including Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools and Saskatoon Public Schools), the Saskatoon Police Service, all five Saskatoon Rotary Clubs, community organizations, businesses, and citizens. These partnerships are crucial for governance, leadership, funding, and program delivery. The collaborative effort between these stakeholders creates a synergy that sustains RAP’s impact and ensures its continued growth and success[4][5].

Impact and Recognition

The program is widely recognized for providing effective support and intervention for youth facing complex social and emotional challenges. Testimonials from students and community partners highlight RAP’s role in offering hope, facilitating healing of harmed relationships, and improving school safety and student well-being. For example, the Chief of Police of Saskatoon has publicly acknowledged RAP facilitators as key contributors to creating supportive and safe educational environments[2].

Motto

RAP operates under the motto: "Building a Safer Community... One Youth at a Time." This reflects its commitment to transforming the lives of young people and, by extension, the broader community through restorative practices.

The Saskatoon Restorative Action Program Inc. remains a vital nonprofit initiative dedicated to positive youth development and community safety through restorative justice principles and collaborative partnerships.