PIVOT SOCIETY
REBUILD LIVES. REUNITE FAMILIES. RESTORE COMMUNITIES.
At Pivot Society, we support individuals impacted by addiction, gang involvement, and incarceration—empowering them through mentorship, education, and lived experience. Together, we’re creating stronger families and safer communities.
About Us.
Pivot Society exists to inspire transformation and create lasting change in the lives of individuals impacted by addiction, gang involvement, and the justice system. Through trauma-informed education, peer mentorship, and lived experience, we empower people to heal, reconnect, and contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.
OUR MISSION
We envision a society where every person—regardless of their past—is empowered to recover, reunite with loved ones, and thrive in their community. Through connection, compassion, and opportunity, we break cycles of addiction, incarceration, and violence while building resilient families and safer neighborhoods.
OUR VISION
Pivot Society was born from lived experience. Founded by TJ Sheehan, a former gang member who overcame addiction and incarceration, Pivot is proof that change is possible when support meets purpose. What began as a personal mission to give back has grown into a grassroots nonprofit with a focus on youth mentorship, non-law enforcement gang exit programs, recovery coaching, and family healing. Since our founding, we’ve impacted hundreds of lives across Calgary and beyond—supporting at-risk youth, justice-involved individuals, and families affected by trauma and addiction.
OUR STORY
Our Impact in the Community.
With real experience and real connection, we’ve helped hundreds turn their lives around. Here's what that looks like:
1,500+ youth engaged through Gloves Not Guns and school prevention programs.
75% program completion rate among participants.
120+ families educated on addiction, trauma, and healing.
100+ individuals supported through exiting the criminal justice system, mentorship and recovery coaching.
20+ schools and community agencies served through consulting and training.
“Pivot helped me walk away from a gang, go back to school, and reconnect with my family. I got my life back."
— Former participant, now university student
Our Partners & Funders.
We’re proud to collaborate with organizations and community champions who share our mission.
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We work closely with CYOC to deliver our Gloves Not Guns program for youth in custody, helping them build hope, skills, and healthier paths forward.
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Our collaboration with EYOC extends our reach to support justice-involved youth in Edmonton with mentorship, and our Gloves Not Guns program.
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Through this partnership, we connect with youth on probation, offering positive outlets, guidance, and a chance to break the cycle of reoffending.
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Enviros provides innovative community-based programs for vulnerable youth and families — together, we empower young people to thrive despite life’s challenges.
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A long-standing pillar of community support, the Salvation Army partners with us to deliver outreach, mentorship, and workshops for youth and families in need.
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Working alongside Trellis, we deliver wraparound services that strengthen youth and families through prevention, intervention, and connection.
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Hull’s expertise in trauma-informed care complements our mission, allowing us to provide comprehensive support to youth navigating complex life situations.
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We share Planet Youth’s commitment to upstream prevention — together, we equip young people and communities with tools to reduce risk factors and build resilience.
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In collaboration with Tsuut’ina Nation, we honour culture and community while supporting Indigenous youth with meaningful programs and mentorship.
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Our partnership with CHF helps ensure youth transitioning out of homelessness or custody have access to stable supports and brighter futures.
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We’re grateful for government support that enables us to deliver evidence-informed programs and expand our impact across Alberta communities.
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Home of our flagship Gloves Not Guns program, Olympus Boxing Club provides a safe, empowering space for youth to learn discipline, resilience, and self-confidence.
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Partnering with the Centre for Newcomers, we support newcomer youth and families in building connections, skills, and a sense of belonging in Canada.
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Through CBE, we reach students directly in schools with prevention programs, workshops, and presentations that inspire youth to make healthy choices.
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Our work wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of local donors and the dedication of volunteers — you help us change lives every day.
♡ Feedback from our partners
“This is the most effective gang-prevention work we’ve seen. It’s real, relevant, and youth are actually engaging.”
— Trellis Society
“Pivot is filling the gaps. Their mentorship model has changed the way we approach high-risk youth.”
— Youth Worker, Calgary Board of Education
Interested in partnering with us?
Pivot Society’s work is gaining recognition across Alberta and beyond.
In the Media.
Voices of Change.
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“I used to think there was no way out. But Pivot helped me believe in myself again. Today, I’m clean, I’m out of the lifestyle, and I’m helping others walk the same path.”
— GNG Graduate, Age 19
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“I was facing serious charges and felt trapped. Pivot connected me with support, helped me build a safety plan, and believed in me. I just got accepted into university.”
— New Beginnings Participant, Age 21
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“Our son was lost to addiction. We didn’t understand what he was going through. Pivot showed us how to support him without shame or fear. It changed everything.”
— Parent of Participant
Get Involved.
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Learn more about Gloves Not Guns.
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