We run traditionally-based parenting programs to support families, and a breakfast program so kids go to school well fed. We can help parents with contributions to nutritious meals and offer a return to work program for parents when children reach three years of age.
We have open gym time when children, youth, and families are all welcome. We offer weekly activities―arts programs, modern and traditional dance, drumming and singing, powwow nights, language classes, cooking programs, traditional food preservation, swimming, skateboarding and other outings. We also run a summer day camp for school-aged children and mentor youth to become camp counsellors. We offer the Vancouver Kids Up Front program in our community with opportunities for children, youth and families to participate in outings to arts, culture, sports, and recreation events.
We have repatriated an old “Coming of Age” tradition of honouring and preparing girls to become women. Staff takes our girls by boat to an empowerment camp in our traditional territory in Indian Arm for a sacred coming of age ceremony.
Our goals are to foster positive engagement and self-esteem among youth, reconnect with traditional values, and promote healthy lifestyles.
In addition, we support social interaction and activities among our Elders, with arts and crafts workshops, social lunches with other nations, traditional drumming and singing, connecting Elders with children and youth, computer classes, and health workshops. We help Elders navigate the health system and advocate to promote their longevity and health. We want to give Elders opportunities they missed due to residential schools, support them through their personal healing, and reconnect them to language, culture and traditional programs. Our goal is to have happier, healthier Elders who are connected with the rest of the community.