Select A Region JOHN HOWARD SOCIETY OF BC ABOUT SERVICES RESOURCES GET INVOLVED BLOG CONTACT DONATE NOW About the John Howard Society Home > About JHSBC We are a non-profit charitable organization with over 80 years of experience delivering programs and services province-wide. The JHSBC supports regional John Howard Societies across our province, all of whom have a strong history delivering programs and supporting individuals and families facing barriers. Collectively, we have extensive experience supporting people with complex needs facing multiple barriers by providing prevention and intervention services, advocacy, and public education. Our Vision Safe, healthy and inclusive communities in British Columbia. Our Mission To be the trusted voice on social and criminal justice issues in British Columbia. Caring Collaboration Integrity Trust Board of Directors HOVER ON A PICTURE FOR MORE INFORMATION Hank Mathias Chair Judith Hayes Vice-Chair Martha Okot Thomas Treasurer Colin Gabelmann Darlene Kavka Kyle Krawchuk Catherine Bruce Henri Cullinan Geoffrey Barrow Wendy Townsend Bill Pavich It is with deep sadness and fond remembrance that we honour Terry Moist A long standing JHSBC and JHS North Island Board Member, Terry spent a lifetime dedicated to supporting youth facing multiple barriers, restorative justice, and community development. We are incredibly grateful and fortunate for the immense contributions he has made to the JHS over his 40+ years serving our organizations. “I’ve always had an infinity for, and ability to, connect with kids on the fringe. An educated friend told me when dealing with school populations, if you look after the edges the middle will take care of itself. I think this philosophy applies to everything.” – Terry as shared by Claire Trevena, Minister for Transportation & Infrastructure in the legislature on July 15, 2020. Learn more about Terry and the memories shared by those that knew him here. Bursaries Recognizing the foundational role that education plays in building safe, healthy and inclusive communities, the John Howard Society is pleased to have the opportunity to distribute the JD Hobden bursary to individuals who have been involved in the criminal justice system for the advancement of their education. JD Hobden Scholarship Fund Education is an important component of successful reintegration. An individual is much more likely to be successful in their reintegration back to community from a correctional facility with access to education. Although education is a proven and cost-effective means of reducing crime and increasing community safety, many incarcerated individuals face barriers to accessing these opportunities. Through the generous support of the JD Hobden Book Fund Committee, the Dr. JD Hobden scholarship fund (a permanent endowment fund held at the Vancouver Foundation) provides financial support to individuals for the advancement of their education. Applicants who have been involved in the criminal justice system, who demonstrate the need and ability to gain learning and experience in a trade or other profession, may be eligible for a small bursary to advance their education at an educational institution in British Columbia. For eligibility details, or to apply for the JD Hobden Educational Bursary, download the application form below. DOWNLOAD FORM History John Howard was an 18th century English prison reformer that observed unjust social conditions in prisons, both as a prisoner of war during the Seven Years War, and as the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire, a post which included the task of inspecting local prisons. The suffering that John Howard both endured and witnessed led him to become a lifelong advocate for criminal and social justice reform. He argued passionately that all citizens must collectively accept responsibility for the criminal justice system within their community. The John Howard Society established its BC roots in Vancouver by people who, like John Howard, observed unjust social conditions and demonstrated a strong commitment to tackle issues that were important to the community and to the criminal justice system. The John Howard Society was established in Vancouver in 1929, and became incorporated in 1932 as the John Howard Society of British Columbia. JHS Canada was subsequently established in 1962. LEARN MORE Funders We are fortunate to have a strong and diverse range of individuals, organizations, governments, and other stakeholders supporting the work of JHS across BC. It is recognized that we must work together to create safe, healthy and inclusive communities, and we are thankful to work in partnership with our funders to provide innovative, effective, and sustainable programming that meets the needs of the people we serve. For more details on our funding and the funding of the John Howard Societies across BC, please refer to the financial statements in our reports and publications section of our website. IMPORTANT LINKS HOUSING EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT JUSTICE SERVICES COMMUNITY LIVING BC SERVICES COMMUNITY SERVICES DONATE CAREERS VOLUNTEER REGIONAL SITES JOHN HOWARD SOCIETY OF BC NANAIMO REGION NORTHERN BC OKANAGAN & KOOTENAY THOMPSON REGION VICTORIA SEARCH OUR SITE SITE DESIGN & CONTENT COPYRIGHT 2021 JOHN HOWARD SOCIETY OF BC WEBSITE DESIGNED BY MY LOUD SPEAKER MARKETING.