Alberta

Mission Statement

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.

What is CoSA?

Circles of Support and Accountability are groups of four to seven volunteers who are primarily from the faith community. They are committed to enhancing public safety by supporting community re-entry for former high risk offenders through covenanting, meeting and walking daily with them. The full Circle meets on a regular basis. It serves both as a caring community offering support, and as a responsible community, concerned that public safety not be compromised. CoSA acknowledges the ongoing pain and need for healing of survivors of abuse. 

Read the May 2016 edition of Bar None.

 

Ontario

Through Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA), teams of volunteers supported by professionals, meet with sexual offenders to hold them accountable for their actions and help them reintegrate into the community after release from prison.

I was a stranger and you welcomed me…I was in prison and you visited me….

~ Matthew 25:36.

The result of 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:

  • 83% reduction in recidivism for sexual offences
  • 73% reduction in recidivism for all types of violent offenses
  • 71% overall reduction of in all types of recidivism in comparison to matched groups of offenders who did not have a CoSA.

MCC’s long history with CoSA has shown that these circles are the best way to protect public safety, and provide a chance for someone who has sexually offended to turn their life around and live offence free.