Connection in the Heart of the Canadian Arctic

Last year, the Inuvik Justice Committee reached out to us with a remarkable vision: to use StumpCraft puzzles to support their community-building initiatives and provide healing resources to trauma survivors and their families. We jumped at the opportunity to collaborate on this community-led initiative.


In a region where isolation can be a challenge especially during the long, harsh winters, Eva and her team at the Inuvik Justice Community recognized the power of puzzles to bring people together. Beyond mere entertainment, our puzzles are used as "self-regulation kits" and catalysts for fostering connection and a sense of belonging. Elders traded puzzles, sharing stories and laughter. Hospitals, group homes, and community centers became hubs of shared activity. 

The Inuvik Justice Committee’s "Going Through Puzzling Times" Program has had a profound positive impact on the community. According to Eva, the program coordinator, StumpCraft puzzles have become a tool for connection, conversation, and self-regulation.

“Your puzzles are more than just puzzles to us: they are hope, light and colour. They are the missing pieces; they are the pieces found; they are the shapes of our futures. They bring us together, provide delight, keep us connected.”

We're deeply honoured to be a part of this story and to hear how our puzzles are making a difference in the lives of people in the Canadian Arctic.

If you're inspired by our collaboration with the Inuvik Justice Committee, please consider supporting your own local community initiatives. Puzzles can have a profound impact in your communities through puzzle clubs in your local libraries, youth support groups, seniors centres and community halls. 

And if you know anyone with a passion for criminology, restorative justice, or social work, Eva is seeking talented individuals to join their team in Inuvik!

Learn about other community initiatives we support, like the Highbanks Society Women’s Shelter at our StumpCraft Blog.