IRES Attends Calgary John Howard Society’s “Safer Communities Start Here” Celebration

The Islamic Restoration Society (IRES) was pleased to attend the Calgary John Howard Society’s (CJHS) Safer Communities Start Here event at Upper Barracks, The Confluence, in Calgary. The evening brought together community organizations, government representatives, employers, and other partners committed to building safer and stronger communities.

The event highlighted the importance of collaboration, employment opportunities, and community-based support in preventing crime and helping individuals build stable, productive lives.

CJHS Executive Director Natalie Noble served as the master of ceremonies, guiding an evening dedicated to recognizing the collective efforts of organizations and individuals working to improve community safety. Elder Ruby opened the event with a prayer, setting a thoughtful tone for the gathering.

Calgary Mayor Jeremy Farkas shared encouraging remarks recognizing the important work of nonprofit organizations and community partners in strengthening public safety. Minister Myles McDougall, representing the Government of Alberta, also addressed the gathering, offering words of encouragement and highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts to support safer communities.

The event was also attended by Kathy Neil, Regional Deputy Commissioner for the Prairies with Correctional Service Canada (CSC), and Julie Hrdlicka, a member of the IRES Board of Directors. Their presence underscored the importance of collaboration among correctional services, nonprofit organizations, and community partners in advancing rehabilitation, successful reintegration, and safer communities.

The evening’s keynote speaker, Emily O’Brien, delivered a powerful and inspiring account of her personal journey from past mistakes to entrepreneurship and success. Following her experience in the justice system, Emily founded Comeback Snacks, a gourmet popcorn company committed to challenging stigma surrounding formerly incarcerated individuals and creating employment opportunities for them. Her story demonstrated how second chances, determination, and access to meaningful work can help people rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society.

For IRES, the event reinforced an important principle at the heart of our mission: safer communities are built not only through accountability, but also through rehabilitation, opportunity, and meaningful reintegration.

As an organization dedicated to reducing Muslim involvement in the criminal justice system, IRES recognizes the importance of partnerships that address the challenges individuals face before, during, and after involvement with the justice system. Employment, mentorship, education, community support, and culturally appropriate rehabilitation services all play an important role in helping individuals move forward and reducing the risk of reoffending.

IRES appreciates the Calgary John Howard Society for bringing community partners together and recognizing the work being done to create safer, more inclusive communities. We also value the participation of government representatives, correctional services, nonprofit organizations, employers, and community leaders who share a commitment to rehabilitation, prevention, and lasting positive change.

Together, we can help build communities where people have the support, opportunities, and dignity they need to succeed.