Healing Communities Book Launch

Join the Centre for Community Based Research (CCBR) and Conrad Grebel University College (Grebel) in the Grebel Gallery on October 20th, 2026 for the launch of Healing Communities: Restoring Relationships to Live More Fully Together by CCBR Executive Director, Rich Janzen. From 4:30 to 5:30 pm, come celebrate and learn more about the book's exploration of how we can restore relationships and strengthen our communities. 

No registration or payment required. Light refreshments will be available during the reception. 

Event details

When: Tuesday, October 20th from 4:30–5:30 pm (EDT)

Where: 

Parking: Parking fees apply Monday to Friday from 7:30 am until 7:30 pm. Parking can be purchased through the Honk Mobile app (Zone 9072) or through the Honk QR code (no app needed). The QR code is available in the main entrance vestibule or at the reception desk. Parking can also be purchased with cash or credit at Grebel's reception desk. Parking rates are $3/hour up to $10/day. 

Accessibility: Located on the fourth floor of Conrad Grebel University College, the Centre is accessible by elevator and stairwell. Inside the elevator, select the fourth floor button with a wheelchair icon. 

What does it take to mend the relationships that hold a community together? 

Illustrated by community stories involving the Centre for Community Based Research (CCBR), Healing Communities explores how fragmented and wounded relationships can begin to be restored. It is "a practical and deeply human guide for anyone committed to the long work of repair."

Overview

Healing Communities explores what it takes to restore the relationships that hold communities together. Drawing on community-based research, lived practice, and interdisciplinary theory, Rich Janzen examines how individuals, organizations, and community groups can move from fragmentation toward stronger, more connected community life. 

Organized as an "upside-down theory of change," the book begins with the outcomes of healing before turning to action. 

• The What introduces four characteristics of a healing community: connection, sharing, adapting, and sustaining.
• The How explores the practical requirements that can help communities move toward these outcomes. 

A distinctive feature of the book is its emphasis on reflection and dialogue. Each chapter concludes with discussion questions that invite readers to connect the ideas to their own experiences, perspectives, and communities. This makes Healing Communities especially well suited for classroom use, community organizations, professional learning, and group study. 

Practical, thoughtful, and accessible, Healing Communities offers a distinctive framework for understanding community healing and strengthening community life. 

Rich Janzen

Rich is Executive Director of the CCBR and has worked with communities for more than 30 years. 

Proceeds from purchases of Healing Communities support the work of CCBR.

Print copies can be picked up in person at the Centre for Peace Advancement front desk and CCBR's office for $29.50 by credit card or e-transfer to general@communitybasedresearch.ca. Books can also be ordered online through the Captus Press publishing website.