Photo: Deborah Pfeiffer

Mediation between crime victims and offenders will be in the spotlight in the South Okanagan next week, as communities in Canada and beyond take part in Restorative Justice Week from Nov. 19-26.

Three presentations will be hosted by the South Okanagan Similkameen Restorative Justice program on consecutive days.

Mark Provencal, the program co-ordinator, said the purpose is to inform the public of how restorative justice works for them.

"It's an option to learn about some of the great work that goes on in our community, powered mostly by volunteers."

Restorative justice is a non-retributive approach to justice that focuses on healing for victims and accountability of offenders, according to Correctional Service Canada.

Provencal said the restorative justice program is available for citizens wrapped up in a misunderstanding or an unfortunate circumstance as well.

"Mainly, our referrals come through the RCMP, but we are available to help out in other disputes if restorative justice is an option," Provencal said, noting neighbourhood disputes as an example.  

The first presentation takes place on Tuesday at the Sonora Centre in Osoyoos, followed by one on Wednesday at the Princeton Library and another at the Penticton Public Library auditorium on Nov. 23. 

All three presentations begin at 7 p.m.

For more information, you can call the program at 250-490-2372.