About Us

Our Story

We see strengths and possibility.

Every young person deserves a chance and has the potential to better themselves and their circumstances to create hope for their future.

Founder, Denise Blair pre-dates CYJS, starting on a contract in 1996 to explore if Youth Justice Committees could be viable in a large urban setting. After 18 months, there were nine Youth Justice Committees serving 36 communities. In 1998, Calgary Youth Justice Society was incorporated as a registered Non-Profit. In 2005, CYJS became a registered Charity. Programming evolved from offering early intervention for justice involved young people to providing an effective prevention program called In the Lead and then later, a condensed version for justice involved youth called In the Lead 180.

Connecting young people in a positive way with their community is key, and we help them develop positive relationships with their family, peers, school and community through our adult volunteers and support.

Did you know?

CYJS has positively impacted the lives of more than 17,000 young people over the past 30 years!

Our Icon

Our icon represents a young person in the middle, surrounded by community, exchanging reciprocal helping hands. It reflects our vision that has remained unchanged throughout the history of CYJS: all young people contribute to and flourish in safe, caring communities.

How CYJS Can Help

From prevention to early intervention to successfully transitioning to adulthood, Centre for Youth Justice and Success equips young people with the skills, supports, and opportunities they need to navigate challenges and build positive futures. We build resilience, foster accountability, and empower young people to achieve lasting success.

Early
Support

Prevention programming that builds strengths, reduces barriers, and creates opportunities for youth to succeed.

Justice
Involvement

Programs that support accountability, growth, and positive outcomes for youth involved in the justice system.

Pathways
to Independence

Programming that equips youth with the skills, confidence, and supports to transition to adulthood, live independently and achieve their goals.

Real Talk

"I feel much more confident in myself, and my abilities. I believe that I can be a good leader if I put my mind to it."
Past Participant
In the Lead