Collaborative justice Program 2025 Year End Review

As we reflect on 2025, we are filled with gratitude for a year marked by reflection, growth, and renewed momentum for the Collaborative Justice Program. Grounded in over 27 years of restorative justice practice, CJP continued to support people impacted by harm while strengthening partnerships, enhancing learning, and deepening our commitment to survivor-centred justice. 

This year also marked an important leadership transition. After more than 25 years of dedicated service, Kimberly Mann retired from her role as Executive Director, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, compassion, and steadfast commitment to restorative values. Under Kim’s leadership, CJP grew into a nationally respected program and trusted community partner. We are deeply grateful for her vision and care, and for her continued support as an invaluable advisor to the program.

Collaboration remained a cornerstone of our work in 2025. CJP  both established new and strengthened existing relationships with key community partners, which include the Ottawa Police Service Victims Unit, the Victim Witness Assistance Program, Ottawa Victim Services, Probation Services, and the Ottawa Rape Crisis Centre. These partnerships enhance referral pathways, expand access to restorative options, and support coordinated, trauma-informed responses for people impacted by harm.

CJP also continued to expand its engagement in the sexual violence space. Team members attended the Survivors4Justice Reform event hosted by Marlee Liss, joining survivors, advocates, and justice professionals in critical conversations about accountability, systemic change, and healing. These discussions reinforced the importance of survivor choice, safety, and autonomy, and informed CJP’s thinking around program development, advocacy, and long-term sustainability.

Throughout the year, CJP invested in professional learning and sector engagement. Caseworkers connected with defence counsel at the Defence Counsel Association of Ottawa-Carleton’s annual conference, increasing awareness of restorative options and strengthening collaboration. CJP also participated in the National Restorative Justice Symposium, engaging in hands-on learning and knowledge exchange with practitioners from across Canada.

Amber provided leadership and representation for CJP at the local, national, and international levels. Highlights included participation in an international exchange with Dr. Christian Gade of the Aarhus Centre for Conflict Management (Denmark), presenting CJP’s post-charge, pre-sentence; serving on a panel for the Futures in Justice event, supporting racialized and underrepresented young women exploring careers in law and justice; and presenting at the National Judicial Institute’s East Regional Fall Education Conference, where there was strong engagement from the judiciary and renewed confidence in CJP’s work.

Community connection remained vital to our sustainability. Our Annual Trivia Night Fundraiser once again brought together supporters for an evening of laughter, connection, and shared purpose—reminding us of the caring community that surrounds CJP.

Looking ahead, CJP remains committed to offering meaningful restorative processes, strengthening partnerships across justice and community sectors, and contributing thoughtfully to conversations about justice reform in Canada.

We are deeply grateful to our Board, staff, volunteers, partners, donors, and community members for walking alongside us. Together, we continue to build a justice response rooted in accountability, compassion, and hope.

With warm wishes for the New Year,

The CJP Team – Amber, Luke, Robin & Jade