Calgary John Howard Society and Government of Alberta partnership ties funding to employment outcomes
The Calgary John Howard Society (CJHS) is launching a new Employment Hub with support from a five‑year, $9.6 million‑dollar contract from the Government of Alberta’s Ministry of Assisted Living and Social Services, dedicated to strengthening employment outcomes for people transitioning from justice involvement.
“Alberta’s government firmly believes that helping those involved with the justice system develop skills and find employment will lead to better long-term outcomes,” says Jason Nixon, Alberta Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services. “We are proud to be partnering with the Calgary John Howard Society so they can help more people successfully rebuild their lives.”
The Employment Hub will serve justice-involved adults who face significant barriers to employment, including stigma, work history gaps, mental health challenges and addiction, low literacy, or reliance on income supports. These obstacles often leave them with few options, increasing the likelihood of returning to the same circumstances. CJHS works to break this cycle by helping participants build stable, long-term employment and financial independence, improving community safety for everyone.
“Community safety is at stake when people who are involved in the justice system don’t have supports,” said Natalie Noble, Executive Director of CJHS. “A stable job and the right resources reduces the risk of reoffending and gives people a real shot at a second chance.”
Under the agreement, a portion of CJHS’s funding is paid only when participants are still employed six months after starting work. This is an accountability measure intended to keep the focus on long-term stability and public safety.
“We’re comfortable being measured on long-term results because this is what we do,” said Noble. “CJHS has a proven track record of supporting people after release, and this model keeps everyone focused on what matters, which is helping people keep a job, stay stable, and avoid returning to custody.”
Program delivery has begun, with additional components rolling out throughout 2026.
