Effective, just & humane responses to the causes & consequences of crime

The John Howard Society is a voluntary, non-profit agency that provides intervention, residential, employment and related programs and services to adult and youth involved in the criminal justice system.

Peer-reviewed science argues that punishment does not make people more pro-social – and that it often makes them worse.

Our provincial organization, the John Howard Society of Newfoundland & Labrador, delivers best-practice services to pro-socially integrate persons at the end of their sentence and prevent people from coming into conflict with the law in the first place. Our policy and position papers and presentations advocate for legislation that accords with principles of fundamental justice.

  • Make a Difference. Join our Board of Directors.

    Help Shape Safer, Stronger Communities Across Newfoundland and Labrador The John Howard Society of Newfoundland and Labrador (JHS-NL) is seeking passionate, community-minded individuals to join…

  • 2025-26 Annual Report

  • 2025-26 Year in Review

  • The HMP Phoenix Garden Project

    we’ve grown tomatoes, lettuce, squash and some beautiful flowers and houseplants, and everything seems to be thriving…

How you can help

The John Howard Society depends on public involvement. All levels of the organization – from local to national – are governed by voluntary Boards of Directors. Volunteers are extensively involved in the direct service work of the Society. Many also support the work of the John Howard Society through donations.