Standing with people in Greater Victoria formore than 80 years.
We are a social service non-profit agency in Victoria, BC. We work and serve the community on lək̓ʷəŋən lands. Our staff are honoured to provide services on the traditional territory of the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations.
We come from various backgrounds and share a common goal of wanting to make things better in our community, for our community.
We recognize the need for supports for those who face barriers and aim to restore dignity and self-worth to all those who work toward becoming their best selves.
We are honoured to work on the traditional territory of the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations. We are committed to listening, learning, and supporting work that respects Indigenous rights, cultures, and leadership in this region.
Our History
John Howard (1726-1790)
In 1935, a group of concerned citizens came together and formed the Victoria Branch of the John Howard Society of British Columbia to discuss conditions at the provincial prison.
The Society operated as a branch until 1948 when the John Howard Society of Vancouver Island was incorporated in Victoria. It was responsible for all of Vancouver Island. More branches followed in Nanaimo and Campbell River, and while the programs were evolving, the John Howard Society was also changing.
In 1983, we amalgamated with the mainland branch – the John Howard Society of British Columbia. This helped to maintain the cooperation and support between the different regions of the province.
Finally, in May of 1989, the John Howard Society of Victoria (JHSV) was incorporated as a separate agency.
For the past 88 years, the JHSV has been committed to leading transformative social change in our community. We are dedicated to assisting individuals, families, youth and adults with programs and services focused on employment, housing, mentorship, and restorative justice.
Over the years, new branches, partnerships, and programs developed on Vancouver Island. In 1989, the John Howard Society of Victoria was incorporated as its own agency, firmly rooted in this community. Today, after more than 88 years of service, our focus is still the same. We help people build safer, more hopeful futures close to home.
What Guides Our Work
We create safe, healthy and inclusive communities for all.
Dignity
We treat every person with respect, no matter what they are facing.
Advocacy
We speak up for human rights, diversity, equity, and inclusion in all areas of our work.
Empowerment
We commit to supporting our clients to change and grow to make informed decisions and to have the agency act on their own behalf
Collaboration
We value listening, working and evolving with each other, our partners and our community to best serve our clients
Accountability
We value operating with integrity and being responsible and answerable to each other, clients and the community
Resiliency
We value embracing challenges with the determination to learn, evolve and grow
Board of Directors
Our board members bring a wide range of lived experience, professional backgrounds, and community insight. What they share is a commitment to helping people build safer, healthier lives.
Chris Beresford
Board Chair
Hank Mathias
Vice Chair
Randie Johal
2nd Vice Chair
Wendy Townsend
Board Member
Blair Fisher
Treasurer
Bob Downie
Board Member
Ranj Atwal
Past Chair
Gareth Dickson
Board Member
Join a Team That Makes Community Stronger
Joining our staff team means working with people who care deeply about community. Our workplace is warm, collaborative, and grounded in respect. Staff come from many backgrounds and bring their own strengths to the work.
Your Time Can Change Someone’s Path Forward
Volunteers make an enormous difference. Whether you enjoy conversation, mentorship, outdoor work, or community connection, there is a place for you here. Your time can help someone feel valued and ready to move forward.
Funders
Thank You! On behalf of everyone at the John Howard Society, we thank all our generous funders for believing in our cause and entrusting us with your donations to assist us in providing these important services.
