Our Story
ABOUT US
About Us
Peacebuilders is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving access to justice for youth facing barriers and advocating for transformative changes within the justice and education systems.
In Canada, traditional punitive approaches in the youth justice system often perpetuate cycles of recidivism, failing to address the underlying causes of youth crime. At Peacebuilders, we champion a restorative approach that fosters social connection, supports youth rehabilitation and invests in building healthier, safer communities.
We believe that every young person deserves the chance to be heard, supported and empowered to reach their full potential.
For over 20 years, Peacebuilders Canada has been at the forefront of advocating for access to justice for youth facing barriers while providing critical support to young people in need. With Vision 2028, we will build on our legacy of success while exploring new ways to address the complex challenges facing youth today. Our work is driven by the belief that every young person deserves to be heard, valued and given the opportunity to reach their full potential.
As we look ahead, we are deeply aware of the ongoing systemic inequities that disproportionately impact Black, Indigenous, racialized and marginalized youth. These issues cannot be solved by one organization alone and that is why we are committed to strengthening our partnerships, engaging communities and advocating for systemic change across the justice and education sectors.
This plan reflects our dedication to breaking down barriers, championing restorative approaches and ensuring that youth are supported in meaningful and sustainable ways.
Our Core Values
Awards conferred upon Peacebuilders
- 2015 Association for Conflict Resolution Marvin E. Johnson Diversity and Equity Award
- 2015 American College of Trial Lawyers Emil Gumpert Award
- 2009 Toronto Community Vital Ideas Award
- 2008 Toronto Community Safety Award
Awards conferred upon Peacebuilders’ Founder, Eva E. Marszewski
- 2019 York University Outstanding Achievement Bryden Award
- 2019 Ontario Bar Association Distinguished Service Award
- 2015 Order of Ontario
- 2013 McMurtry Community Service Award
- 2011 Ashoka Fellowship
- 2009 Dianne Martin Medal for Social Justice through Law
- 2007 YMCA Peace Award
Our story
In 2002, Eva Marszewski, a respected lawyer with a deep background in the justice system witnessed firsthand the gaps and shortcomings in the way justice was served to young people. These experiences ignited a passion in her to seek out better ways to address the needs of youth and adolescents caught in the web of the justice system. This passion led to the founding of Peacebuilders.
Eva’s approach to restorative justice was deeply influenced by her time spent observing the youth justice practices of the Carcross/Tagish First Nation in the Yukon. There, she saw how the community’s peace circles brought people together to address harm, promote accountability, and foster healing. These principles assist in the reparation of harm, accountability and responsibility, inclusion, empowerment and healing, and prevention and reintegration which became the foundation of Peacebuilders’ values.
Peacebuilders employs restorative justice to not only repair the harm caused by individuals but also to mend relationships with persons harmed and the community at large. They provide alternatives to punishment for youth, offering rehabilitation and support groups that guide them toward healthier paths. By teaching conflict resolution skills, Peacebuilders helps young people navigate challenges and avoid criminal behaviour in the first place. The ultimate goal is to keep youth out of the criminal justice system, giving them the tools and support they need to build better futures.
