Some are focused on small communities, some on particular groups, such as the Sentencing Circles of First Nations groups. Proven to be most suitable for large urban centres such as Victoria is the Victim Offender Reconciliation Program. The Fraser Region Community Justice Initiatives Association in Langley, British Columbia serves as a model of excellence and long experience from which to build. Victims report that meeting the offender reduces fears and anxieties, and validates their concerns. It helps them to move on with their lives.
Offenders gain empathy and understanding.
They gain peace of mind from reassuring the victim, apologizing, and making reparation. The Dispute Resolution Centre in Victoria has since 1988, provided mediation in civil cases, helping neighbours, business associates and families resolve their disputes in a collaborative manner. We have developed a program of excellence, with clearly defined standards and credentials. We are ready to start a Victim-Offender Program in this city, modelled on the Langley experience. A Steering Committee with representation from crown, victims services, diversion, has been actively engaged in creating community awareness of the program's benefits for individuals affected by crime, and society as a whole.