Skills required
Dedicated Restorative Justice Circle Volunteers
Ongoing
About Us: The Edmonton Youth Justice Committee Society (EYJCS) offers people who caused harm referred through the Extra Judicial Sanctions and Alternative Measures programs a restorative alternative to the traditional court system. Rooted in respect, compassion, and inclusivity, our restorative justice circles bring together the person who caused harm, the person harmed (if they choose to attend), and community members to acknowledge the incident, understand its impact, and support meaningful steps to repair the harm. Position Overview Circle Volunteers play a vital role in delivering restorative justice circles. These trained volunteers support people who have caused harm in taking accountability for their actions and completing reparative sanctions. Volunteers participate in one or more of the following roles: Circle Volunteer Roles 1. Circle Facilitator Leads and manages the circle process using EYJCS’s format Ensures respectful, inclusive, and productive dialogue Maintains structure and flow of the circle discussion 2. Follow-Up Volunteer Greets youth or young adults and completes pre-circle paperwork Maintains regular contact to support completion of agreed-upon sanctions Communicates via phone, text, email, or in-person (in public settings only) 3. Harmed Person Support Volunteer Contacts the harmed person prior to the circle Attends the circle to provide emotional support and advocacy Volunteer Responsibilities (All Roles) Attend approximately 2–3 circles per month Participate in 10–15 hours of mandatory training Complete timely and accurate case notes and documentation Report concerns to EYJCS coordinators as needed Adhere to protocols regarding suspected child abuse Collaborate with other volunteers and staff Stay informed of local sanctions and resources Regularly check and respond to EYJCS communications Follow safety procedures and guidelines for all circle activities Additional Volunteer Commitments To support program sustainability, all EYJCS volunteers are expected to: Volunteer at bingo events (3-4 times per year) Participate in casino fundraisers (once every 2 years) Qualifications: Strong life experience and maturity Strong interpersonal, listening, and communication skills Knowledge or understanding of restorative justice principles and practices Ability to remain neutral, supportive, and compassionate Comfortable discussing sensitive topics and working with diverse populations Willingness to commit to ongoing learning and training Schedule: Evening shifts, typically twice a month. Location: · South Office - Tuesday Evenings - 115-9303 34 Ave NW · North Office - Wednesday Evenings - 600A Hermitage Road How to Apply Please send an expression of interest outlining your interest, preferred location, and availability to: volunteer@edmontonyouthjustice.com In your email, please attach your resume and answer the following pre-screening questions: 1. Why are you interested in volunteering with the Edmonton Youth Justice Committee Society (EYJCS)? 2. What is your understanding of restorative justice? 3. What skills or qualities do you bring that would make you a good Circle Volunteer (e.g., facilitation, communication, empathy)? Please note: Applications that do not include answers to all three questions will not be considered.
Skills required