National Restorative Justice Week shines spotlight on Chilliwack Program

CHILLIWACK — The Chilliwack Restorative Justice program is being recognized for its work to take an alternative approach to addressing minor criminal offenses. The recognition comes during National Restorative Justice Week which is held in Canada during the third week of each November

Restorative Justice diverges from traditional punitive methods by centering its focus on the harm caused to individuals, relationships, and the community. The goal is not only to penalize offenders but to facilitate a meaningful dialogue between victims, offenders, and the community, diverting individuals from the overburdened Criminal Justice System.

Facilitated by trained professionals, the Chilliwack Restorative Justice program prioritizes the healing process for victims while assisting offenders in taking direct responsibility for their actions.

Steve Roukema, Executive Director of the Chilliwack Restorative Justice Program, says the program is committed to providing opportunities for healing, reparation, and reintegration. “The Chilliwack Restorative Justice program is facilitated by trained professionals whose primary goal is to support the healing process of victims while supporting the offender in taking direct responsibility for their behavior,” said Roukema.