(Photo credit: University of Calgary/Getty Images)

By Nathaniel Leigh

Family Justice

University of Calgary partnering with Grande Prairie’s Re-imagining the Family Justice System Initiative

Jan 9, 2025 | 12:00 PM

An initiative that proved successful in Grande Prairie will be influencing a shift in family justice practices from the University of Calgary.

A $26.8 million philanthropic gift from Alberta Law Foundation will fund new research chairs and a Centre for Transformation at the university. It will work closely with the Re-imagining the Family Justice System Initiative following the group’s work in Grande Prairie.

This new initiative will prioritize long-term well being, reducing trauma for children and youth, and provide crucial support for families navigating their family justice-system.

Through the RFJS, families in Grande Prairie are now being encouraged to consider the root causes of their dispute when initiating new actions or applications in court.

“The new Centre for Transformation will serve as a vital bridge between research and community impact. By combining the expertise of Canada’s largest school of social work with the innovative spirit of our Faculty of Law, the University of Calgary is uniquely positioned to lead systemic change in conflict resolution and family resilience.”
Dr. Ed McCauley, President, University of Calgary

“Supporting initiatives of this magnitude is unprecedented for us, but incredibly exciting. The Foundation understands the value in this multifaceted approach and the need for generational transformation in the family justice system. We are grateful for the opportunity and ability to partner with the University of Calgary and the RFJS and are excited for the positive impact it will have on families and, in particular, children in Alberta.”
Byron Chan, Executive Director, Alberta Law Foundation