The John Howard Society works collaboratively to establish programs and services to meet the needs of the individuals and communities we serve. This ensures that our efforts to build safe, healthy and inclusive communities are attainable, effective, and sustainable. Using a community-based approach also means that the priorities, programs, and services offered by the JHS differ across British Columbia, in response to the specific needs of the community.
How we serve communities across BC
Housing
We believe that housing is a human right, and access to safe, affordable, and accessible housing is a cornerstone of healthy communities. We offer a range of housing initiatives across the province, from transitional and supportive housing to programs and services aimed at addressing or preventing homelessness. Our housing spectrum includes initiatives that assist people transitioning from the criminal justice system, people with developmental disabilities, those in need of supportive or assisted living, people with complex needs, struggling to find and maintain affordable housing, and many others.
Learn MoreEmployment & Education
Our employment and education programs assist people to identify, work towards, and achieve their personal and professional goals. We provide support, training, and tools to assist individuals achieve their goals, and work to address and mitigate the increasing rates of unemployment in BC. We deliver a range of programs across the province which provide access to employment skills-based training and certifications, and assist with job search, retention, coaching, and mediation. In addition, participants are supported through life-skills education to build self-esteem, confidence, and other key areas which assist in securing and maintaining employment.
Learn MoreJustice Services
Our justice services advance public safety, reduce and prevent crime, and advocate for individuals affected by the criminal justice system. Our programs include correctional institution in-reach and community reintegration supports, assistance with housing, employment, health and other support services. We also offer restorative justice programming in some regions, providing an alternative to the criminal justice system to address the harm and consequences caused by crime, while holding offenders accountable for their actions. Our justice programs seek to promote community safety while empowering clients to improve their lives and value their positive contributions to society.
Learn MoreCommunity Living BC services
Our Community Living Services provide community inclusion, home share, and residential services to adults with developmental disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and/or Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, who are funded for services through Community Living BC (CBLC). Our Community Living Services provide supports which advance community inclusion and assist individuals in achieving greater independence. Support is person-centred and changes depending on the needs of individuals, and through a network of community supports and services individuals are supported to identify and achieve their self-determined goals.
Learn MoreCommunity-based services
Our community-based services provide accessible programs and supports to people in the community. Many services are accessible to all community members, while others serve members of our communities requiring additional forms of support, in order to overcome barriers they face in meeting their needs. A goal of our community services is to create a safe space for people to access necessary services and supports, while also enhancing the collective experience of community engagement and inclusion.
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