John Howard Society of Simcoe & Muskoka

Community Service Order Program

The Community Service Order Program is in existence due to partnerships with other organizations and agencies in the Simcoe and Muskoka region. Adult clients are court ordered to complete a certain number of community service hours which must be completed for non-profit, charitable, or municipal agencies. In some cases, work may also be performed for private individuals, depending on the circumstances.

CSO clients are low-risk offenders and often first time offenders. CSO clients complete an intake assessment and are placed in suitable community placements. The client is most successful when we can match them up with a placement of personal interest. The success of this program depends in part on the placement’s ability to provide to clients pro-social role modelling, a connection or re-connect with the client to his/her community, continued support, and the building of positive relationships. We have had clients continue on at their placements once the hours have been completed, due to the fact they have developed a rapport with the placement and want to give back.

The John Howard Society of Simcoe & Muskoka wishes to thank all of the community service order placement providers. These dedicated and involved individuals provide opportunities for our clients to work with positive role models, acquire pro-social skills and gain valuable work experience and skills.