Our Leadership, Community Building, and Vision honoured by the Social Planning and Research Council of B.C.
Three Deryck Thomson Awards, SPARC BC’s highest honour, were awarded June 10, 2026
Restorative Collective Vancouver received an award for leadership
in community-led restorative justice and social change, towards becoming a Restorative City.
Norm Leech received an award for community building
with partner organizations Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House, and Metro Vancouver Aboriginal Executive Council.
Norm was recognized for his deep commitment to community building, restorative justice, and advancing healing-centred, Indigenous approaches to conflict and harm.
Dr. Evelyn Zellerer received an award for leadership and visionary contributions
Founder and Director, Peace of the Circle, was recognized for her outstanding leadership and visionary contributions to restorative justice, and the development of Canada’s first restorative city.
These recognitions reflect the collaborative efforts of many people, Nations, organizations, and communities who continue to share their knowledge, time, and commitment to building a Restorative Vancouver.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to SPARC BC for uplifting this work! Thank you to Lorraine Copas, Executive Director, for presenting the awards, Amrita Gill for the fabulous event planning, and Philip Kendrick for capturing moments with photography.
Together, we are demonstrating what is possible when we invest in relationships, dialogue, healing, and collective action. We invite you to join in.
“This is a shift from the colonized definition of justice, to one of connection, healing, and uniting people.”
~Norm Leech