In the fight against recidivism and crime, few strategies are as impactful as providing meaningful employment and educational opportunities. Research has shown that the majority of federally sentenced individuals in Canada have some need for education or employment, with over half lacking a high school diploma and a significant portion unemployed at the time of their arrest. By addressing these critical gaps, CJHS is tackling the root causes of criminal involvement and creating pathways to a brighter future.

One such success story is that of CE, a refugee claimant from Nigeria who arrived in Canada with no pre-arranged supports. CE was referred to the CJHS Program Navigator who provided essential assistance, including referrals to community resources, a food hamper, and transit tickets. Through the Alberta Supports program, CE was able to secure stable housing.

CE then turned to the CJHS Employment Services team, who helped them apply for a job at the Sobeys Refrigerated Warehouse. CJHS went the extra mile, providing CE with necessary work attire and a grocery gift card. With this support, CE was quickly hired into a full-time warehouse position and has maintained regular contact with the Employment Developer, seeking guidance and support as needed.

The transformative power of education and employment is also evident in the journey of HW, who had lost their career/industry certifications due to addiction and had been precariously housed for a decade. HW enrolled in the CJHS Learning Enhanced Employment Program (LEEP), a three-week employment preparation program. Despite facing significant challenges, HW was engaged, attentive, and eager to learn. After updating their resume through the program, HW heard back from a prospective employer within 24 hours. Shortly after completing LEEP, HW celebrated one year of sobriety and has since provided positive updates to CJHS staff.

The story of MH, a recent prison release who had not worked for six years, further exemplifies the transformative impact of CJHS’s programs. Enrolled in the LEEP program, MH was helpful, positive, and eager to participate. During the Trades workshop, MH initiated meetings with the facilitator, applied for funding, and enrolled in welding training at SAIT to complete their Journeymen certification. Several months after LEEP, MH was hired into a full-time welding position, is maintaining sobriety and keeping in regular contact with the Employment Developer, sharing that “things are going brilliantly.”

These inspiring stories illustrate the power of the Calgary John Howard Society’s approach, which combines practical support, skills development, and a steadfast commitment to empowering individuals to break the cycle of crime. By providing access to education, job opportunities, and the resources necessary for success, CJHS is creating safer communities and transforming lives, one success story at a time.