HomeFront is an internationally recognized and research-validated coordinated community-justice response to domestic violence that’s been serving the Calgary community for 20 years helping more than 3,500 victims each year.

Essentially, Homefront is the “what’s next” after 911 call is made and Calgary Police Service lay charges in cases of domestic violence. Homefront aims to intervene within 72 hours and provides support to the victim of domestic violence from the date of the incident until the offender’s conditions are completed and client’s safety is maximized.

“Homefront model is unique. We intervene at a crucial time in people’s lives, when help is needed the most.” says Justin Dafoe, Strategic Advancement Manager of Homefront.

Homefront is a key partner in Calgary’s Specialized Domestic Violence Court. Through a unique and collaborative model they bring together the law enforcement and the justice system for a more effective response to domestic violence.

Homefront works to make sure that each client has the resources and support to break the cycle of a domestic violence. As a result of Homefront’s model, 83% of first-time offenders do not reoffend within 3 years of post-intervention.

“We have struggled to engage volunteers because of the sensitive nature of our work. Having been a Katimavik participant, I knew there was a great opportunity to engage volunteers to work with me on the operational side – from research and evaluation to developing communications and creating a virtual onboarding system for volunteers.

We started in turbulent September 2020, and Katimavik volunteers were able to immediately jump into the challenge. They really added value and capacity for the organization. They brought knowledge and passion, that was so helpful and refreshing during the time where there is so much uncertainty in the world!

Their knowledge and natural tech savviness helped advance all the projects they worked on. The participants managed to do really well and dive into a collaborative process, bringing their own contributions and expertise.”