OJEN was established in 2002 by the three Chief Justices of the Ontario courts. Since then, it has provided opportunities for youth in Ontario to develop meaningful connections with the justice system. Supported by local OJEN committees throughout the province and thousands of justice sector volunteers, OJEN’s programs and resources impacted over 250,000 youth last year alone. Facilitating dialogue among young people and justice professionals is the core of OJEN’s programming and central to its goal of building a civil society.

In addition, OJEN supports youth workers and teachers of high school Law and Civics with institutes, symposia and a range of professional development opportunities that give individuals working with youth insight into current issues in justice education. Hundreds of case summaries, mock hearing scenarios, and teacher guides have been developed and made available to teachers free of charge. OJEN’s website is a clearing house for information and resources.