Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA) - Alberta and Ontario

Located in Alberta and Ontario, in the Circles of Support and Accountability program, teams of two or three community volunteers meet with individuals with histories of sexual offending to hold them accountable for their actions and support them as they reintegrate into community after release from prison. Circle volunteers are committed to enhancing public safety by supporting community re-entry with a focus on support and accountability. Circles include a holistic approach to support individual community reintegration needs, strengths and goals.

The full circle meets regularly. It serves as a caring community offering support and a responsible community concerned that public safety is not compromised. CoSA acknowledges the ongoing pain and need for healing of survivors of abuse.

Mission 

To substantially reduce the risk of future victimization of community members by assisting and supporting high risk released individuals in their task of integrating with the community and leading responsible, productive and accountable lives.
 

A lasting impact

The result of Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA) is fewer victims of violent and sexual crimes across the country. CoSA​ makes a significant contribution to safer streets and communities through enhanced public safety and protection of Canadians. Evidence gathered indicates:
 

• 73% reduction in reoffending for sexual offenses
• 73% reduction in reoffending for all types of violent offenses
• 71% overall reduction in all types of reoffending in comparison to matched groups of offenders who did not have Circles of Support and Accountability.