Become a Core Member / Refer a Client

Applying for CoSA

Is CoSA right for you?

CoSA Ottawa works with people returning to the community after incarceration for sexual offences who are committed to making positive changes and building a safe, stable and meaningful life in the community.

Whether you are considering CoSA for yourself, a family member, or someone you work with, this information can help you understand who CoSA is designed to support and what the application process involves.

Who can apply?

CoSA Ottawa considers applications from individuals who generally meet the following criteria:

  • Have been convicted of a sexual offence and acknowledge responsibility for a past sexual offence;
  • Have been incarcerated in a federal or provincial correctional institution;
  • Have been assessed as presenting a risk of sexual reoffending;
  • Have significant needs or limited support in the community—for example, limited social supports, housing challenges or other barriers to successful reintegration;
  • Are willing to provide consent for CoSA Ottawa to communicate with relevant professionals and access appropriate correctional or criminal justice information to support the Circle.

Meeting these criteria does not automatically guarantee acceptance into CoSA. Each application is assessed individually based on the person’s circumstances, needs, risk and suitability for the CoSA model.

What does participation involve?

CoSA is a voluntary program. Participants, known as Core Members, choose to take part and agree to work collaboratively with their Circle.

A Core Member is expected to:

Build an open and accountable relationship with their Circle

Core Members agree to follow the Circle Agreement and communicate openly with volunteers about their experiences, challenges, choices and concerns.

Participate in recommended supports

Core Members are expected to participate in counselling, treatment or other community-based programs that are recommended as part of their reintegration and risk-management plan.

Commit to the Circle

Core Members commit to participating in CoSA for a minimum of one year and to working consistently with their Circle throughout that time.

CoSA is based on both support and accountability. Volunteers are there to listen, encourage and help navigate challenges, while also supporting the Core Member to recognize risk, make responsible choices and maintain a safe and pro-social lifestyle.

How the Application Process Works

1. Express your interest

To begin the process, send CoSA Ottawa a letter of interest explaining why you are interested in participating in CoSA. Letters can be mailed directly to 236-211 Bronson Avenue, Ottawa, ON, K1R 6H5 or by email to admin@cosa-ottawa.ca. 

2. Complete an application

Once we receive your letter, we will provide an application form and arrange an intake interview, either in person or by phone.

3. Intake and information gathering

During the intake process, we will discuss your circumstances, needs, goals and expectations for participation.

With your consent, CoSA Ottawa may also speak with relevant professionals involved in your case, such as probation or parole officers, treatment providers or other members of your support team.

4. Suitability assessment

CoSA Ottawa reviews the information gathered through the application and intake process to determine whether CoSA is an appropriate support for the applicant.

5. Decision and next steps

We will contact the applicant to discuss the decision and, where appropriate, the next steps toward establishing a Circle.

Important Information About Timing

CoSA is a voluntary community-based program. There is no legal requirement for someone to participate in CoSA.

Because CoSA is designed to provide community-based support following release, we do not approve applicants for participation before they have been sentenced or before a Parole Board hearing.

If you are unsure whether CoSA may be appropriate for you or someone you support, please contact us. We are happy to answer questions about the program and explain the application process.

Have questions?

Whether you are a potential Core Member, family member, professional or community partner, we welcome your questions. 

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