Transformative Justice

Circles of Support and Accountability

CoSA is a group of volunteers dedicated to community building by assisting individuals aged 12-24 at a high risk of involvement in the justice system by providing friendship and support. The goal of CoSA is to improve individual well-being and reduce the risk of further involvement in the justice system. CoSA is grounded in respect, tolerance, responsibility, accountability, and loving kindness.
Volunteer

FAQ

CoSA stands for “Circles of Support and Accountability.”

CoSA is a volunteer driven, community-based model for enhancing individual wellbeing, a more cohesive community connection, and fostering a healthier lifestyle which leads to increased community safety.

  • Core Member: A person who is at risk or is justice involved
  • Volunteer: Local members of the community, often drawn from the faith community
  • Inner Circle: A collection of one core member and 4-6 volunteers
  • Circle Coordinator: A liaison between the inner and outer circles who recruits and organizes volunteers
  • Outer Circle: Professionals volunteering to support the CoSA project

Please read the volunteer requirements below, then complete and submit a volunteer application to get started.

Become a CoSA Volunteer

Volunteers who join the CoSA process are dedicated to learning about the core member’s needs, strengths, and risk factors. Through open and honest dialogue, the core member is guided to identify goals and personal priorities, as well as develop and maintain a relapse prevention/self-management plan.

Our volunteers also take an active role in helping the core member address their practical needs, especially in the early months of the CoSA. They strategize ways to secure income, housing, or any other resource the core member may need to thrive in the community. This process ensures that the core member receives the necessary support, understanding, and tools to transition back into the community successfully.

Volunteer Requirements

Interested in volunteering with CoSA? Here are the volunteer requirements:

  • Commit for 6 months – 1 year as a volunteer
  • Ability to maintain clear boundaries
  • Capacity to problem-solve, learn from, and make decisions as a team
  • Empathic and non-judgmental
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills and an ability to be constructed
  • Ability to be proactive but also seek support when needed
  • Willingness to learn practical approaches for facilitating discussions
  • Ability to accept guidance, supervision, and feedback
  • Willingness to participate in ongoing professional development
  • Availability and reliability to fulfill tasks as a circle member
  • Attend all training sessions provided
  • Undergo a rigorous screening process
If you feel you are a great candidate, please complete an online volunteer application. Our team will review it and reply as soon as possible. Thank you for your interest in volunteering with us.
Volunteer Application