Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre

The Cultural Resource Program (CRC) is designed to address the multigenerational effects of trauma within Indigenous communities by promoting healing, reconciliation, and cultural empowerment. The program offers urban Indigenous children, youth, and families increased access to culture-based supports and services, fostering a strong sense of well-being and positive Indigenous identity. By facilitating access to traditional teachings, ceremonies, and Elders in a safe and supportive environment, the CRC works to reduce violence, prevent involvement in the child welfare system, and improve overall community health.

Objective:

• Promote Healing & Reconciliation: Provide culturally responsive services to support the healing and reconciliation process for urban Indigenous families.

• Increase Cultural Access: Ensure urban Indigenous children, youth, and families have access to traditional teachings, ceremonies, and cultural activities.

• Strengthen Indigenous Identity: Foster a strong sense of well-being and Indigenous identity through cultural connection and knowledge.

• Prevent Harm: Reduce the impacts of violence, involvement in the child welfare system, and promote community health and safety.

• Cultural Awareness & Competency: Enhance cultural safety, understanding, and competency both within the Friendship Centre and in the broader community.

Program Services:

• Cultural Space: Provides a safe and welcoming environment for children, youth, and families to engage with traditional and culture-based practices.

• Access to Elders: Facilitates safe access to Elders, traditional teachings, and ceremonies.

• Cultural Arts: Offers opportunities for beadwork, drum-making, basket-making, and other traditional arts.

• Healing & Reconciliation Programs: Supports multigenerational healing and reconciliation through culturally rooted practices.

• Traditional Medicines & Sacred Items: Provides access to traditional medicines, ceremonial tools, and sacred items.

• Group & One-on-One Support: Offers individual and group support sessions tailored to the needs of participants.

• Community Events: Organizes traditional feasts, celebrations, and seasonal social gatherings.

• Advocacy & Collaboration: Advocates for cultural safety and works with Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations to promote healing and awareness.

• Cultural Workshops & Teaching: Provides workshops focused on cultural teachings, such as the Medicine Wheel, life stages, and traditional food practices.