Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre · 2018. 11. 20. · Vision Toronto Council Fire Native...

Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre

201840th AGM

IRSS Legacy CelebrationNathan Phillips Square TorontoOctober 9-11, 2018

“There will be teepees in the Square offering workshops, displays and cultural information”

Left: Positioned at the entrance of the Ontario Place Cinesphere during the IRSS Legacy Launch II on June 14, 2018, this is one of the teepees being prepared for Nathan Phillips Square. Provided by Sumac Creek Tipi Company and designed by Council Fire volunteers and youth under the supervision of artist Marsal Nazary. Sponsored by the Association for Native Development in the Performing & Visual Arts (ANDPVA), the teepee was also loaned to the Indigenous Arts Festival at Fort York from June 21-24. The teepee will be on view at Toronto Council Fire’s Second Annual “Restoration of Identity” Youth Pow Wow in Regent Park on August 25, 2018.

She:koli – Ahnii - Wachiye –Koolamulsai – Greetings and Welcome to Toronto Council Fire’s 40th Annual General Meeting.

On behalf of Council Fire’s Board of Directors and our founding President Gordon Byce, it is my honor and pleasure to offer our collective message of acknowledgments to you the community, our team members, volunteers, friends, neighbours, supporters, partners and sponsors.

As in past years, this Annual Report honors and reinforces the work started in 1976 by our founding Board members and workers, who laid that foundation and commitment, “to assist Native people to become aware of their cultural background as well as their potential in education, employment and to strive for spiritual and personal growth through acceptance of each other”.

As your Board of Directors, we ensure that our Mission Statement is current and guides the direction of our Centre and its day-to-day operations to improve the quality of life for our people by nurturing the creation of healthy opportunities, positive growth and development.

The governance of Council Fire is carried out by a volunteer Board of Directors, made up of individuals representing a cross-section of Nations and Clans who possess varied gifts, skill sets, experience and academic achievements.

This year’s booklet is dedicated to our Residential School former students and their families, the children, youth and senior’s in addition to a synopsis of activities that each group has undertaken. We have intensified our outreach and partnerships to offer awareness through various activities, events and projects to address the overwhelming loss of our IRSS community members and clientele, many of whom were not afforded the opportunity to know or celebrate their cultural identity,

We look forward to another year full of new opportunities, continued teachings and partnerships.

We have much to be grateful for and to our Creator, we give our thanks.

Darlene Ritchie, President

Message from the Board of DirectorsTeaching, Learning, Sharing and Healing

Board of Directors 2017-2018Darlene Ritchie, President (Turtle Clan)Christine Goulais, Vice President (Lynx Clan) Millie Knapp, Treasurer (Bear Clan)Wanina Phipps-Walker, Secretary (Loon Clan)Andrew Wesley, Elder (Wolf Clan)Directors: Amanda Lipinski Kim TurnerYouth Representative, Redbow Toulouse

Founding Board (1978)R. Gordon Byce, President Margaret MacLeod, Secretary Clarence Decaire, Treasurer

Members:Raphael DokisCarol FarkasLarry LeongAlastaire PatersonJacqueline RosenDr. Larry RosenLydia Somers

2017 Toronto Council Fire “Restoration of Identity” 1st Annual Youth Pow Wow

VisionToronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre is an autonomous, vibrant cultural agency that involves and serves the Indigenous community with confidence for and commitment to their well-being.

MandateTo provide counselling, material assistance and other direct services to First Nations people as well as to encourage and enhance spiritual and personal growth.

Mission • To utilize our cultural teachings and languages as a base in all work we undertake, • To invest in the positive growth and development of our youth that prepares them to assume their rightful place as leaders, • To improve the quality of life of Aboriginal families by nurturing the development and creation of healthy opportunities, • To enhance the capacity of Aboriginal seniors and elderly in all aspect of their lives, • To promote and employ Aboriginal people in the area of arts & culture, education, business and information technology, • To promote and support housing & shelter for Aboriginal people through direct and indirect programming and services, • To enter into partnerships with like-minded organizations, • To conduct ongoing constructive assessments with the community, • To support the economic growth of our community while maintaining sustainable and responsible development, • To continue to build human, cultural and academic capacity, • To continue to build on our natural healing relationship with Mother Earth, • To work with people of the four colors. • To promote the celebration of Life.

The Mission is guided by the use of our good minds to work for peace, harmony and friendship.

Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre439 Dundas Street East (at Parliament)Toronto Ontario, M5A 2B1Tel: (416) 360-4350 Fax: (416) 360-5978Email: [email protected] Number: 10525-5244-RR0001

Who We Are

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Photo (right): Corner of Parliament and Dundas Streets

Top: 1972 Austin’s Used Furniture and Appliances Centre: Council Fire in 2003 (building was purchased from

the Catholic Diocese in 1997) Bottom: Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre 2018

Organizational StructureToronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre is one of many Aboriginal service providers in the Greater Toronto Area that work together to address the social, health, education, economic and cultural needs of the Toronto urban Aboriginal population.

We are located in the Regent Park/Cabbagetown area and on an annual basis interact with over 175,000 clients made up of youth, adults, seniors and families who are established in the community or in transition. Our team and clientele come from various First Nation home communities within

Ontario, throughout the country and from other points across Turtle Island.

The circular Program Sector Model illustrates how the various Sectors interact, forming program linkages and sharing responsibilities. This represents a more culturally appropriate form of a management which relies on a holistic approach to the development and delivery of programs and services. Our reporting process involves information going from the Core/Management to the Board then, to the community for feedback.

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Core SectorAndrea Chrisjohn, Board Designate Denise Toulouse, Capacity Development Officer Ivy Balagbagan, Finance Director Robin Homes, Finance AdministratorChristina Da Costa, Finance Support Alice Walkus, Information CoordinatorTed Harper, Maintenance Paul Lafontaine, Maintenance Support

Restoration of Identity (ROI) Team David Sherry, ROI Team Lead Virginia Toulouse, ROI Team Lead Theo Nazary, ROI Strategic Planning Officer Liana Canzian, ROI Communications Officer

Child and Family Support & Wellbeing SectorSusan Cada, Prenatal Program Coordinator Sabrina Eddy, Family Program Coordinator David DJ Pangowish, Family Nurturing Support

Health and Wellbeing SectorJosh Smoke, Kizhaay Anishinaabe Nin Nicole Scarlett, LLCP Coordinator Tanya Cozry, UAHLP Coordinator Erika Kitchemokaman, LLCP Personal Support Worker Norman Irish, IHWP Coordinator Kevin Myran, Cultural Resource Support

Youth and Youth Wellness Navigation SectorRyan Dudnick, Wasa-Nabin Coordinator Dana Khan, Akwe:go CoordinatorAnthony Gladue, Little Embers Cultural Leadership Tasha Toulouse, Little Embers Community Development Coordinator Bear Charles, Youth Promotions Coordinator

Youth Wellness Navigation Unit Chantal McGregor, Youth Wellness Drop-in Tasunke Sugar, Youth Wellness Drop-in Taijah Abotossaway, Youth Wellness Education

Education, Awareness and Wellbeing SectorJoan McDougall, Education Manager Ryan McNeely, LBS Coordinator Errol Hernandez, Academic Upgrading Instructor Paul Haigh, Education Instructor George Kennedy, History Instructor Bryce Smith, Education Technical Support Aaron Armstrong, Education SupportResolution Health / Cultural Support & IRSSAndrew Wesley, Elder/Cultural Support Erika Monaco, Health Resolution Coordinator Pamela Carter, Health Resolution Support Coordinator Laurie Okimawinew, IRSS Peer Coordinator Susan Hunter IRSS Peer Support Worker Clara Louttit IRSS Peer Support Worker Michael Cheena IRSS Peer Outreach Donelda (Winnie) Ashkwe, IRSS Peer Outreach

Gathering Place Support & Wellbeing SectorDarlene McGregor, Community Client Support Coordinator Quinn Anderson, Case Manager Tevin Peters, Case Manager Kevan Karkut-Webb, Housing First Coordinator Jackie Szkoda, Community Client Support Matthew Rutledge, Program Support Worker April Begg, Food Services Sonny McDow, GP Weekend Relief Raj Parthasarathy, GP Weekend Relief

Summer Students and PlacementsColleen Milne, ROI/Council Fire Legal Student Tahjae Brown, Youth Summer Student Masima Lawrence, Youth Sector Summer Student Mason Debassige, Youth Sector Summer Student Simon Baum, Youth Sector Summer Student

Council Fire TeamT

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B O A R D O F D I R E C T O R S

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Management Team

Program Sectors

Board Designate The Board Designate, assigned by the Board of Directors, is responsible for the successful leadership and management of Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre according to the strategic direction set by the Board of Directors, taking into consideration recommendations, positions and/or motions throughout the year including Annual General Meetings.

Reception, Administration, Finance and MaintenanceThe Core Sector is responsible for administration, finance, policy development and corporate maintenance. The Core Sector supports the day-to-day activities ensuring that the goals, mandate and direction are realized, as directed by the Board Designate.The Core Sector is staffed by the Capacity Development Officer who acts as resource to

the Sector Management Team and oversees Administration, the Information Coordinator and Maintenance Team. The Finance Director contributes to the overall success of the Centre by effectively managing all financial tasks in collaboration with the Finance Administrator and Support Team, alongside the Board Designate.

The Sector is funded by a variety of sources, namely the Community Cultural Support Program, a federal program of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC), managed by the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres (OFIFC), in addition to management fees and funds generated through the rental of our facility, catering service and event coordination.

Over the past year, the Core Sector has interacted with 12,500 individuals and groups who have come through our doors. These visitors come from elementary, secondary, post-secondary and private schools; church and religious groups; non-aboriginal

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Core Sector

Board Designate, Reception, Administration, Finance and Maintenance

2017-2018 CORE REVENUE

Management Fees $221,989.00 24% Misc. Administration Fees $152,008.56 16%OFIFC - Community Capacity Support $120,000.00 13%Occupancy Fees $100,255.00 11%Rental Income $10,900.00 1%Donations $23,435.93 3%Fundraising and Misc. Income $96,934.42 10%Interest Income $8,434.11 1% OFIFC - Building Renovations $45,000.00 5%MCYS/MCSS- Building Renovations $144,995.34 16%

TOTAL REVENUE $779,915.31 100%

LEGEND

OFIFC/NAFC - Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship CentresMCYS/MCSS - Ministry of Children & Youth Services / Ministry of Community and Social Services

24%

11%

3%

1%

10%

5%

1%

11%

13%

16%

During Toronto Council Fire’s upcoming IRSS Celebration at Nathan Phillips Square in Toronto from October 9-11, 2018, twenty-one teepees will be erected to symbolize Indigenous people and Nations residing in the City. Although teepees were not originally used by the Indigenous people from the Tkaronto area, the cone-shaped dwellings that many Plains Indigenous peoples used to live in until the mid-1800s, retain cultural significance and are sometimes constructed for special functions. In a contemporary context, teepees have become more general symbols of Indigenous identity and they can be found as parts of art installations or at sites where Indigenous peoples unite to defend their rights and lands.Sunrise: A time to express gratitude at the start of a new day and a period of personal and community reflectionTrees: Trees are an integral part of all creation, they provide shelter, warmth (fire) and food. They are also a conduits for messages to the Creator Lightning and Thunder: Also intergral parts of creation, Lightning and Thuder provide sustenance (rain) and they are harbingers of the changing seasons.

agencies and businesses; other regional Friendship and Cultural Centers; individuals and/or groups from First Nation communities, Tribal Councils and agencies; government officials; tourists, advocacy groups with like minded goals and objectives; out of country visitors keen to learn who we are, our

community, our programs & services and our history as Indigenous people. We also have expanded a working relationship with external agencies and groups interested in the use of our facilities through rental arrangements, in hosting workshops, launch movies and hosting of larger meetings.

FRONT AND INSIDE COVER IMAGES

OverviewThe Gathering Place has been an important fixture in the Regent Park and Cabbagetown neighborhoods for over 40 years. Starting in 1976, when a group of people would meet for weekly worship at St. Barnabus Church, the Gathering Place began to take shape through a resolve to address the soci-economic and cultural needs of a growing urban Aboriginal population. The weekly meetings soon turned into potlucks, providing meals to those who came to socialize with people experiencing similar issues. Realizing that there was a need for programs and services to support the individuals and families that were now attending the informal gatherings, funding was identified to address their health, employment, homelessness education and cultural needs. Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre was formed from this initiative to support the Aboriginal community in

Regent Park and in the process, became a part of a developing network of Aboriginal cultural agencies that were opening across Toronto.

By 1997, Council Fire outgrew its temporary spaces and purchased it current property at 439 Dundas Street East at the corner of Parliament.

The Gathering Place continues to offer a safe and welcoming community space in which it provides for basic needs and supports while acting as a venue for traditional cultural celebrations, events as well as education and health fairs, election services, community consultations and workshops.

The Gathering Place team receives certified training from the City of Toronto, from accredited training centres, from colleges and universities, to ensure that our members and community clients receive support and assistance that most effectively addresses their needs, goals and their aspirations.

Gathering Place Sector

The main goal of the Gathering Place is to lower social isolation amongst our community members through access to supports that improve their quality of life; it touches upon several other missions at Toronto Council Fire. Those include promoting and supporting housing and shelter for Aboriginal people though direct and indirect programming and services, supporting the economy and sustainability of our community and working with people of the four colours. Service include daily meals, bi-weekly foodbank, shower facilities, clothing bank, laundry services, resume development, identification, emergency shelter and detox referrals, mental and physical health referrals as well as case management.The Gathering Place also welcomes Volunteer Placements (Community Client Wellness program), Community Service Order Hours and Post Secondary Student placements to help and assist the Council Fire community.Year in ReviewThe Gathering Place provided services to over 42,000 clients this year, as we strive to improve the health and well-being of the homeless, under-housed and the low-income community in downtown Toronto. On an average day we have 125 clients come through our doors. We served over 52,000 meals in 2017-2018.Our Housing First program is in full swing and with much success. The Housing First goal is to end chronic homelessness by providing immediate housing and then working with participants to promote recovery and well-being. Housing First approach is guided by the idea that housing is a

basic human right. Did you know that 47 percent of Toronto renters are spending more than 30 percent of their income on housing, a rule of thumb usually touted as the barometer for affordability and 23 percent are spending more than 50 percent (mostly low income). Also, through the Housing First program there has been the creation of a program called the Community Client Wellness program that gives Housing First clients a chance to acquire or update their skills portfolio.Being able to serve Christmas dinner again this year on December 25th was one of many highlights of 2017-2018. Not everyone has family or the means to cook a big dinner on Christmas and the smiles and general cheerfulness of the day was a great sight. We also had volunteers taking time away from their families and friends to ensure our community was well fed, making this a true community effort and one we take pride in upholding in the Gathering Place.

2017-2018 GATHERING PLACE

ALFDC - Housing First $124,649.14 21%ALFDC - Non-Housing First $244,205.51 41%

COT - Gathering Place $155,000.00 26% MCSS - Counselling $55,171.00 9%MCSCS - Counselling Assistant $10,167.00 2%

TOTAL REVENUE $506,612.83

LEGEND

ALFDC - Aboriginal Labour Force Development Circle MCSS - Ministry of Community and Social Services MCSCS - Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services COT - City of Toronto

21%

41%

9%2%

26%

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“Christmas Past” Gathering Place 2004

The program is staffed by two full-time coordinators and has been offered at the Council Fire since 1996. It is funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada.Programming and services are based on four core standards:

• Child development and nutrition• Parenting and caretaking skills• Cultural development and retention• Community Development

Programs and services:

• Community kitchen• Public Health Peer Nutrition Program• Parent relief• Traditional crafts• After school drum group• YMCA (Parents and Tots and the Move It 2 Lose It fitness program)• Super Dads Super Kids Parenting• Beyond the Basics Parenting• Positive First Nations Parenting • Nobody’s Perfect Parenting• Dads Group• Baby music

• Prevent Diabetes...One Step at a time• Drop-in (referrals to food banks, clothing banks, support letters, clothing exchange, baby food, diapers and wipes, and formula)• Home visits

Workshops:

• Healthy living• Traditional teachings• Injury prevention• Health related illnesses• Child health and development.

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Prenatal Nutrition Program The Prenatal Nutrition Program (PNP) aims to improve the health and awareness of mothers during pregnancy. PNP also supports new mothers and their families from the baby’s birth to six months of age. The program promotes a supportive community approach to the care and healthy upbringing of our newest members and their families.It is staffed by a coordinator and has been offered at Council Fire since 1996. The program is funded by Public Health Agency of Canada. Services provided include:

• Food supplements• Pre & post-natal education workshops• Cultural and craft workshops (moccasins, baby quilts) • Counseling

• Birthing celebrations • Naming ceremonies • Baby showers • Community kitchen demonstrations (making baby food, cooking nutritional foods on a budget)• Baby equipment exchange • Home/hospital visits • Referral to other services

Family Nurturing Program

The First Nations Family Nurturing Program is also referred to as the Community Action Program for Children (CAPC). The intention of the program is to strengthen families by providing parents care giving skills, support community development and healing, and to improve the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being of Aboriginal children from six months to 6 years old.

Child and Family Support & Wellbeing Sector

31%

69%

2017-2018 CHILD & FAMILY SUPPORT/WELL BEING SECTOR

PHAC - Family Nurturing $132,000 69%

PHAC - Prenatal Nutrition $58,300 31%


LEGEND

PHAC - Public Health Agency of Canada

Special Programming:

Children aged four to six years old have the opportunity to participate in March Break and Summer Camp programming. This year children participated in several activities, including visits to: the Ontario Science Center, Center Island (Franklin’s Garden and rides), the Royal Ontario Museum, the movies, Book Bank, Horse Capades, Brook’s Farm (Strawberry Picking), the Canadian National Exhibition, Paradise Playground, Riverdale Farm, High Park, Sky Zone, Kids Fun City, Ripley’s Aquarium, splash pads/parks, the Beaches, and Gardening, Kid’s Kitchen.

Other activities included: traditional crafts, science experiments, and traditional teachings/storytelling .

Special Events Throughout the Year:

Valentine’s Day celebration, birthday celebrations, Easter party, Earth Day celebration, Mother’s Day, self-care days, Father’s Day, feasts, Stars and Strollers (Movies), Family Day outing, beach outings, Eastview pow wow, parenting program graduations, Health Fair, Mud Hero 6K Obstacle Course, Back to School Party, Halloween Party, Children’s Christmas Party, and Christmas hamper/toy distribution.

Individuals and Families served: Between the months of April 2017 to March 2018 the Child and Family Support/ Well-Being Sector has interacted with 3,632 individuals and families who have utilized program, services, workshops and special events.

Health and Wellbeing Sector

Indigenous Healing and WellnessIn line with everything we do at Toronto Council Fire, the Indigenous Healing and Wellness Program (IWHP) focuses on providing culturally-based support that addresses the spiritual, mental, emotional and physical health of the Aboriginal community. The IHWP is driven by two factors: 1) Many community members and clients, living in Toronto are disconnected from their families and home communities; and 2) Aboriginal wellbeing requires activities that foster a positive cultural identity. Emphasis is placed on providing access to traditional counselling, sharing and healing circles, medicine walks, outings to ceremonial events and cultural gatherings. Programs and Services

The IHWP continues to work to raise the wellbeing of our community members. A majority of the

IHWP members are residential school and intergenerational survivors. Weekly healing circles provide a safe space for survivors to share and heal together. The program facilitates traditional craft circles, outings to connect with nature and therapeutic self-care workshops for program participants. Many senior members require assistance with transportation, the IHWP provides support by frequently using Wheel-Trans. Additionally, the IWHP offers abuse prevention programs for seniors that provide access to information on substance and elder abuse. Staff are currently working to address issues with food insecurity, housing affordability, general health and mental health.Year in Review

The IHWP Coordinator is part of the December 6th Planning Committee. The Central Neighborhood House hosts an annual Community Education Fair.

Child and Family Support & Wellbeing Sector

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The Committee is mandated to support women and children affected by gender-based violence. Additionally, the Committee has organized its fifth annual commemorative event to remember the 14 young women murdered at École Polytechnique in Montreal in 1989. The IHWP continues to participate in several inter-agency committees and roundtables to address violence and abuse. Life Long Care Program

The Life Long Care Program (LLCP) was created to ensure the development and provision of culturally appropriate community support and professional services, with particular attention to the needs of Aboriginal seniors/ Elders, people with disabilities and the chronically ill with special needs. The delivery of community support services such as: Aboriginal support, transportation, friendly visiting, security reassurance, congregate dining, and life skills outreach in the community.The LLCP is designed to respond to the lifelong care needs of elderly Aboriginal people who may have limited mobility related to a persistent medical condition or physical disability.The goal of the program is the provision of culturally appropriate and holistic services that meet the

physical, mental, spiritual and emotional needs while ensuring the quality of life for those receiving lifelong care services.LLCP is funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, through the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres (OFIFC).Meals on Wheels/ Food Box Delivery

This service is provided weekly for those who are unable to pick up their groceries due to disabilities. The LLCP is currently providing consistent service to 20 program participants who require this service.Seniors Arts & Crafts Program

The LLCP collaborated with Art Heart for the Seniors Arts & Crafts Program, 10-12 regular program participants attend every Thursday for two hours and use the studio space provided by Art Heart. Program participants have completed the following projects: Drum Workshop, Moccasin Workshop, Rattle Making Workshop, Feather Cases, Dream Catchers and much more.Urban Aboriginal Healthy Living Program The Urban Aboriginal Healthy Living Program (UAHLP) integrates healthy living through traditional knowledge and ways, by encompassing the medicine wheel: spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional.The program educates community members on nutrition, healthy choices and injury prevention and physical activity/exercise. UAHLP promotes living a healthy lifestyle by addressing sleep routine, stress, sedentary lifestyle, alcohol and drug prevention, and smoking cessation. UAHLP partners with universities and colleges such as University of Toronto (nursing students), Centennial College and Ryerson University (social work students). On a weekly basis placement students prepare and present various


topics that relate to exercise and nutrition that involve a holistic approach. UAHLP partners with in-house programs that consistently provide weekly nutritious meals for the Meals on Wheels program, IRSS, Moccasin Trails, and bingo. On a weekly basis the program focuses on mindfulness by doing a low steady state walk within the community. Moccasin Trails: Community members participate in a weekly exercise group to promote a healthy lifestyle. This may include prevention and control of diabetes that can avoid long-term complications. In addition, there is a healthy meal provided that includes the four food groups and water. While the participants enjoy a delicious meal, a student will plan, implement, and facilitate a presentation. The topic is always complimented with the medicine wheel, to remind Aboriginal and non- Aboriginal members, we are all connected in all aspects of our being.Virtuosity of Art: On a bi-weekly basis one of the field placement students and the UAHLP Coordinator facilitate an art therapy activity that partners with the Gathering Place. The creative process and

the resulting art work, explore feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior and addiction, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety and depression, and increase self-esteem. The ultimate goal of art therapy is to improve or restore community members functioning and their sense of personal well-being.UAHLP organized two community health fairs, themed on the turtle and water which were geared towards the Restoration of Identity.

The UAHLP partners with the LLC Program and the IRSS every Christmas to organize a full healthy well balanced delicious dinner. The Christmas

meals provide a variety of foods that give the clients the nutrients they need to maintain their health, feel good, and have energy. The nutrients from the meals include a well-balanced portion of protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fat, water, vitamins, and minerals. Participants will learn to make healthy eating choices then, share them family, friends and community members. Also, participants take this special time of the year to be together and share with other individuals who have become family within the Centre.

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Kizhaay Anishinaabe NiinKizhaay Anishnaabe Niin (KAN) is an initiative created to provide an opportunity for communities and organizations to engage Aboriginal men and youth in understanding violence against Aboriginal women and support them in ending the violence. Kizhaay Anishinaabe Niin is an Ojibway phrase that translates to “I Am a Kind Man”. At a time when violence invades our communities, this program reminds us that violence has never been an acceptable part of Aboriginal culture. Kizhaay Anishinaabe Niin workers and facilitators embrace the Seven Grandfather Teachings: wisdom, love, respect, bravery, honesty, humility, and truth to work towards ending violence against Aboriginal women.The intent is that Aboriginal youth and men will speak out against violence towards women. This

program provides education for men to address issues of abuse against women. KAN gives specific information on women abuse and exercises for youth and adults to learn in groups. The goal of “I Am a Kind Man” is to empower men to help other men in the protection of women, to honour and respect everything in life, and to guide their children with these ideals.

Programs and Services

KAN supports healthy relationships and Aboriginal identities through one-to-one or group-based services, participant-based and public awareness activities, networking and partnership building. Our programs and services include:

• One-to-One Peer Counseling

• Service Navigation

• Individual Advocacy Support

• Justice-Related Individual Supports

• Individual and Family Support

• Individual Traditional Teachings

• Referrals to Other Friendship Centres

• One-to-one supports

• Group-Based Services

• Participant-Based Activities

• Networking and Partnership Building

• Public Awareness (Broader Community Engagement) Activities

Year in Review

KAN members participated in various events, workshops, initiatives and outreach programs. Our members participated in a number of annual events that are meant to remind us of the ongoing work that is needed to end the violence against Indigenous women.KAN members participated in the in the Sisters in Spirit Vigil with the Native Women’s Resource Centre to rally and honour Indigenous women affected by violence. The night included speakers and lighting candles. KAN in partnership with Central Neighborhood House on National Day of Remembrance and Action to stop violence against women again organized presentations, cultural training and information

booths. KAN staff members honoured the women facing violence with a song. This was complemented with a survivor’s feast as each survivor made a spirit plate to share with ancestors.


2017-2018 HEALTH & WELLBEING SECTOR

OFIFC - Life Long Care $135,000.00 32%OFIFC - Healing & Wellness $75,040.00 17%OFIFC - Urban Aboriginal Healthy Living $72,682.00 15%OFIFC - Cultural Resource Coordinator $85,000.00 19%OFIFC - Kizhaay Anishinaabe Niin Coordinator $72,500.00 15%

COT - Diabetes Prevention $7,500.00 2%


LEGEND

OFIFC - Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres COT - City of Toronto

32%

15%

15%

19%

17%

2%

2017-2018 ROI SECTOR

MAG - ROI Communications $100,000.00. 20%

MIRR - IRSS Restoration of Identity $400,000.00 50%


LEGEND

MAG - Ministry of the Attorney General MIRR - Ministry of Indigenous Relations & Reconciliation

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The installation of the Turtle Sculpture and the TLSH site are scheduled for 2020. The City of Toronto must complete a bidding process for contractors who will first complete below ground refurbishments to the Parking structure and site, before being guided through the installation of the culturally significant project.

IRSS Legacy CelebrationIn anticipation of the installation of the Turtle Sculpture and the TLSH space in 2020, Toronto Council Fire will be holding a three-day IRSS Legacy Celebration at Nathan Phillips Square from October 9-11, 2018. During the event, a life sized replica of the Turtle, constructed from foam and fiberglass, will be installed temporarily in the square.Over the three-days of the celebration, attendees from across Turtle Island are expected to attend the programming and events that will include, workshops, traditional and contemporary music and dance, cultural teachings vendor and food marketsThe event is meant to inform the local community with regards to the IRSS Legacy project and its upcoming programming. As well, the event will bring together Survivors from across Turtle Island for a time of reflection and celebration.

Program LaunchesIn 2017-2018, Toronto Council Fire presented 2 IRSS Legacy Launches, IRSS Legacy Launches I

at Daniels Spectrum on November 30, 2017, and Legacy Launch II at Ontario Place’s Cinesphere on June 14, 2018. Community members, partners, government officials, city councillors, potential funders and faith groups, were invited for previews of the Legacy project. These individuals and organizations are important project supporters who have the ability to assist with project financing and promotion. Over the last year, many have gone on to their social media to promote and reach a broader audience. We welcome their ongoing support when we reach out to individuals and groups to attend the IRSS Legacy Celebration.

Top: 2 photos from the IRSS Launch I, Councillor Wong Tam and Grant Entry into Daniels Spectrum. Bottom: All Nations Junior Drum on stage during Launch II at the Cinesphere

Restoration of Identity Team IRSS Legacy Project

Made up of two Project Leads, a Strategy Planner, a Communications Officer and support staff, the Restoration of Identity (ROI) team works collaboratively to plan, design develop engage and roll out the Indian Residential School Survivors (IRSS) Legacy Project. The team is responsible for realizing Toronto Council Fire’s commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action 82. The Call to Action requests the establishment of, “publicly accessible, highly visible, Residential Schools Monument in each capital city to honour Survivors and all the children who were lost to their families and communities.” In consultation with the Aboriginal community and in partnership with the Province of Ontario and the City of Toronto, the ROI team has advanced a project which intend of, “repairing what was damaged, reclaiming what has been displaced and working towards restitution for future generations.”

The IRSS Legacy Project is comprised of three components: 1. The Restoration of Identity Turtle Sculpture by Anishinaabe artist Solomon King of Studio Niiwin and Stone Artisan Studios Ltd., 2. The Teaching, Learning, Sharing and Healing (TLSH) space, which thus far has been the collaborative effort of the ROI team in consultation with Survivor groups, artist Solomon King, architect Brian Porter of Two Row Architects and conceptual designer Shirin Hashemi 3. Cultural Programming at the TLSH site including educational and employment training, community events and celebrations will be guided by the ROI through consultation with Toronto Indigenous agencies as well as the Toronto community at large.

Restoration of IdentityCORE SECTOR

20%80%

IRSS Legacy ProjectTeaching, Learning, Sharing and Healing (TLSH) Space

(conceptual design 2018)

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South west corner of Nathan Phillips Square, next to the Upper Canada Law Society (left) and south of the Peace Garden

IRSS Legacy ProjectTeaching, Learning, Sharing and Healing (TLSH) Space

Indigenous Plantings

TLSH SPACE – COSTS FOR FUNDRAISING1. Turtle Sculpture (with pool and ramp)...........$1,500.000 2. Teaching Lodge............................................$896,698 3. Voyageur Canoe...........................................$75,000 4. Amphitheater...............................................$300,000 5. Three Sisters Sculpture................................$150,000 6. Inukshuk.....................................................$200,000 7. Hard Landscaping........................................$1,553,537 8. Soft Landscaping.........................................$37,606 9. Fitting and Fixtures......................................$65,000 10. Electrical Installation...................................$325,000 11. General Requirements and Fees..................$463,431 12. Allowances..................................................$433,728

TOTAL COST: $6,000,000

The City of Toronto has added a medicine wheel to its popular sign for display at Indigenous events and at the Legacy Celebration.

traditional hoop dancing. The program also offers a professional photoshoot in partnership with the Wasa-Nabin Program. The program caters to all components of the Medicine Wheel and helps foster healthy lifestyle choice and confidence in everyday life.In addition, First Fire Dance teams follow our mission of working with people of the four colors as a significant number of our dancers come from the diverse Regent Park and Cabbagetown neighbourhoods.Festival of Trees (May 2018)The Festival of Trees is Canada’s largest literary event for young readers. It is a two-day event where more than 10,000 youth attend. The festival is co-presented by the International Festival of Authors (IFOA) at the Harbourfront Centre. First Fire Dancers and the All Nations Juniors Drum Group had the pleasure of performing at the 2018 Festival of Trees.Heydon Park Secondary School (May 2018):First Fire Dancers had the opportunity to teach a cultural workshop alongside the All Nations Juniors Drum Group at Heydon Park Secondary School. The workshop consisted of traditional stories, teachings

around the drum and performances by the First Fire Dancers. The workshop also had an interactive component where students were offered lessons on how to hoop dance.5th Annual First Fire Dance Showcase:On May 1, 2018 we held our 5th annual First Fire Dance Showcase, which was the largest and most successful event yet. Each year we focus on storytelling through the choreography, this year we dedicated pieces on Restoration of Identity and Unity. The program included 23 dancers and had a new addition to youth teachers.Georgian Bay Native Friendship Centre:The First Fire Dancers took part in the Youth Wellness Gathering at the Georgian Bay Native Friendship Centre. The First Fire dancers had the opportunity to take part in the cultural workshops as well as perform and teach other students dance moves.National Film Board of Canada:Council Fire partnered with the National Film Board of Canada and OFIFC to create a short film showcasing the work Council Fire offers. The First Fire Dancers and the All Nations Juniors Drum Groups were showcased in the film. The drummers had the opportunity to record an original song and the dancers did a piece on Restoration of Identity in a professional studio. The Citadel Christmas Showcase:

For the first time the First Fire Dancers did a Christmas performance in partnership with The Citadel. The dancers got to showcase their progress on their dance pieces alongside other performances from The Citadel Dance Programs.

Total Akwe:go clients and participants served: 2,122

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Akwe:goAkwe:go in Haudenosaunee means “All my Relations”. Akwe:go provides urban Indigenous children between the ages of seven and 12 with culturally appropriate support, in either one-on-one or group settings, and provides the tools and environment to build and foster their inherent ability to make healthy choices.Programs and Services

Akwe:go is divided into five program and service areas:

1. Social Supports: provides a safe and supportive environment with access to circles, mentoring and counseling. 2. Children in Care: provides children and their adoptive/foster parents with outreach and

access to cultural teachings, activities, and services. 3. Health and Physical Development: teaches children the value of healthy eating habits and participating in regular exercise. Access to meals are provided through the lunch and dinner program following the Student Nutrition Program Guidelines. 4. Educational Support: provides tutoring and educational supports to help children stay in school and achieve their academic goals. 5. The First Fire Dance Program: offers technical dance training to youth between the ages of seven and 18. This popular program consists of four different professional dance instructions: contemporary, break dancing, hip hop and

Youth and Youth Wellness Navigation Sector

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Lacrosse:In partnership with the First Nations School of Toronto, the Little Embers received lacrosse traditional teachings and equipment. The Little Embers were given the opportunity to practice their skills, such as stick handling and scrimmage. Lacrosse gave the children and youth confidence, positive social interactions, teamwork skills and physical activity.

Story Planet:In March 2018, the Little Embers partnered with Story Planet. During this time, Little Embers were able to illustrate their own comic book that was published and distributed at the end of programming. Children and youth developed their

own theme and characters to create their own comics. Comic book making provided the children and youth the opportunity to improve their literacy skills and explore their creativity.

The Little Embers program would like to acknowledge Kids Up Front for their support to bring children and youth to various events throughout the City of Toronto and to MLSE (Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment) for their generous donations.

Total of participants: 2,448 children and youth participated in the Little Embers program in 2017-2018

Little Embers ProgramAt Council Fire, our mission is to invest positively in our children and youth. The Little Embers Youth Program has been providing programming to Aboriginal youth between the ages of 7 and 15, living in the Regent Park and Cabbagetown areas since 2003. Today, the program has grown substantially, due in part, to the contribution of the Ministry of Children and Youth Services and is being championed by a Cultural Leadership Coordinator and Community Development Youth Coordinator.

We recognize the importance of sharing and promoting our traditions and have made it a priority to ensure children and youth feel grounded in their culture and community. The objective is to contribute in assisting our children and youth to become confident young men and women, by providing a range of services based on the mental, emotional, physical and spiritual needs in a safe and loving environment.

Programs and Services

The Little Embers has four objectives that include individual, family and group-based programming and services: 1. Provision of Cultural Services to help Indigenous children and youth gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous values, traditions, ceremonies, teachings and practices. 2. Provision of Physical, Sports and Recreational Activities to help children grow into physically healthy individuals through exercise, organized sports and workshops relating to nutrition and healthy lifestyles. 3. Provisions of Social Support by providing support and workshops relating to leadership, empowerment and confidence.

Children and youth interact with other Council Fire programs to develop a strong community network of support. 4. Provision Educational Support to help children and youth achieve their academic goals by offering study spaces, homework assistance, access to computers and study materials.

Year in Review

This has been a productive year for the Little Embers, as they participated in different types of activities, events and programs. Little Embers went on an overnight camping trip to Georgina Island, made illustrated comic books, participated in lacrosse, took part in First Fire’s 5th Annual Dance Showcase, made ribbon skirts and shirts with Indian Residential School Survivors.

Culture Days: Children and youth in the Little Embers are informed about cultural teachings that include the Seven Grandfather teachings, Medicine Wheel teachings, traditional games, storytelling, pow wow style drumming, pow wow style dancing and sharing circles.

The traditional drum and dance teachings are also incorporated, which the Little Embers have already been immersed in for over four years. Family Night is hosted on Tuesday evenings where children and youth can gather with their families for some pow wow style drumming, traditional crafting and feasts. The children and youth members participated in Council Fire’s 1st Annual Youth Pow wow that hosted over 3,000 spectators, four drum groups and 100 dancers.

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Wasa-Nabin

Wasa-Nabin in Anishnaabe means “To Look Ahead.” Wasa-Nabin is a self-development program for urban Indigenous youth at-risk between the ages of 13 and 18. By accessing the services and supports offered by the Wasa-Nabin program, youth will learn goal setting, leadership skills, violence prevention and how to make healthy choices that will lead to healthier lifestyles and personal success.

Programs and Services In line with the core mission to invest in our youth, the Wasa-Nabin program collectively empowers youth through the following programs and services:

1. General Social Supports program provides a safe and supportive environment for youth with access to circles, mentoring, counseling and participant-focused activities 2. The Youth in Care program provides Indigenous children and their adoptive/ foster parent with outreach and access to cultural teachings, activities and services. 3. Healthy Eating and Physical Development teaches children the value of healthy eating habits and participating in regular exercise.

Snacks and meals are provided through the lunch and dinner program following the Student Nutrition Program Guidelines. 4. Education Supports are provided through a variety of contexts to help children stay in school and achieve their personal academic goals, notably through tutorial and homework help.

5. Addressing violence in collaboration with the Kizhaay Anishnaabe Niin (KAN) program.

6. Justice interventions to address the specific needs of court involved youth.

Wasa-Nabin Year in Review This year the Wasa-Nabin program continued to develop our partnership with First Nations School of Toronto (FNST) to support youth in the community. In October 2017 we started an afterschool lacrosse Program with the Health and Physical Education Instructor at FNST. We had over 30 youth come out each week and actively participate in Lacrosse. The equipment was purchased by Toronto Council Fire through the “Celebration of Life Program” funded by the MLSE Foundation.The Wasa-Nabin Program also assisted First Nations School of Toronto in a soccer tournament at Monarch Park Stadium and a volleyball tournament at Central Toronto Academy, which included various schools across the GTA. The two volleyball teams from First Nations School of Toronto placed 1st and 3rd in the volleyball tournament. The increased focus on physical activity has supported youth address all the components of the medicine wheel. This has resulted in an increase in self-confidence and leadership in the youth.

Over the summer, participants in the Wasa-Nabin Program had the opportunity to obtain Ontario Recreational Canoe and Kayaking Association (ORCKA) Level 1/2 canoeing certification. Training was put to use by navigating the Humber River. The route started under the Bloor Street Bridge and youth paddled to the Humber Bay Arch Bridge and back upstream to where the journey began. The warm weather this year allowed the group to canoe from July until the end of October. Since 2016, Council Fire has partnered with the Cabbagetown Boxing Club to provide youth with

a boxing program designed specifically for them. As a competitive sport, boxing has many benefits, including teaching respect, building self-esteem, promoting sportsmanship, decreasing stress and strengthening mental health. This year we had our first youth from the program compete in the 2018 Golden Gloves Tournament hosted by Boxing Ontario. Many of our young women in the community have embraced boxing and we now have an equal number of male and female participants. Total of participants: 994 youth participated in the Wasa-Nabin program in 2017-2018.


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Youth Life Promotion Program

The Youth Life Promotion program is founded on principles of self-determination and cultural reclamation for urban Indigenous youth. A core aspect of the program is youth culture camps that provide youth with access to water and land-based activities. One-to-one supports are provided to individuals to prepare them for participation in group-based activities as required. Another core aspect of Youth Life Promotion involves facilitating

access to and knowledge exchanges with Elders and traditional knowledge keepers. Traditional knowledge and ways of being is inherently active and blend well with learning on the land. Goal: To support the holistic development and provide a continuum of care services for youth at-risk, including addressing physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health and well-being. Objectives:

1. Gain access to supports to nurture and sustain mental well-being; 2. Access new ways of knowing, understanding, problem-solving and decision-making; 3. Be immersed in Indigenous knowledges and ways of being; 4. Gain access to ceremonies, medicines, languages, teachings and traditional foods; and, 5. Gain access to water and land-based skills and cultural practices.

Youth Wellness Navigation ProgramThe Youth Wellness Navigation Program (YWNP) is funded by the Ministry of Child & Youth Services and provides Aboriginal students and youth up to the age of 29, with a range of services to facilitate improved performance, capability and wellbeing.

There are currently three full-time positions within the YWNP, consisting of an YWNP Drop-In Coordinator, Education Navigator and the Wellness Navigation. The YWNP follows the Open Minds, Healthy Minds: Ontario’s Comprehensive Mental Health & Addiction Strategy. The Open Minds, Healthy Minds strategy reinforces efforts on: improved mental health and well-being; creating healthy, resilient, inclusive communities; identifying mental health and addictions problems early and intervene; provide timely, high quality, integrated service; and, closing critical gaps for vulnerable children and youth. Direct services include culturally based programming that addresses the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well-being of Aboriginal youth. Other support include counselling, brief intervention, crisis intervention and group circles. The program also provides an entry point to access mental health and addictions/treatment services, where the YWNP workers are able to facilitate an efficient referral system for services and transition support.The Youth Wellness Navigation team is responsible for the effective delivery of programming including: • Promotion and outreach • Intake and screening • Development of protocols and referral agreements • Group and one-on-one activities • Follow-up

The YWNP collaborates with the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) staff to identify schools and students in receiving services from Council Fire to maximize school attendance, success and service coordination and consistency. The YWNP has the capacity to provide direct assistance through the TDSB to individual students to help them achieve their academic goals by developing personal plans of action. The objective is to provide effective and efficient responses and services to meet student needs, such as academic support and cultural education, the delivery of counselling to individuals or groups of students, linking school support teams with Aboriginal agencies; provide transition support for students who are in the process of re-entering school; and support youth entering or exiting education programs in care, treatment, custody and /or youth justice facilities. Youth Services: • Mental health and addictions • Counselling • Cultural workshops and events • Teaching circles and ceremonies • Regalia making • Drum practice and socials • Guidance counselling • Employment skills, resume and cover letter writing and job search • Academic direction and • Tutoring • Computer and internet access • Parenting programs • Housing and shelter assistance • Detox and treatment referrals • Legal support • Identification • Referrals and advocacy • Drop-in services

Youth and Youth Wellness Navigation Sector Youth Wellness Navigation Program

The YWNP currently is involved in the following: Aboriginal Community Advisory Committee (ACAC), hosted by the TDSB Aboriginal Education Centre: The ACAC gathers monthly to raise conversations around the need for Aboriginal students to achieve success in school and advises the TDSB through the process of community consultation. The committee provides an opportunity for parents, agency representatives, TDSB staff to become involved in decisions that affect Aboriginal children and makes recommendations to the school board on how to improve support and reduce barriers for Aboriginal students and their families.Cultural Family Night: The YWNP team has partnered with the CRC program to run the Cultural Family Nights that occurs every Tuesday evening. It allows families and the community to participate in traditional drumming, signing, dancing and other activities. Cultural Family Night has become an educational tool where the coordinators share teachings and stories. The family drum was created and allows singers representing different Nations across Turtle Island to sit around on the drum. Radio Regent: The YWNP team partnered with Regent Park Focus Youth Media Arts Centre in October 2017 to start a Radio Show titled

Indigenous Youth Radio. This program is meant to give youth a platform to speak on behalf of themselves and what they are doing in their communities. Since October, we have changed the name to ‘Indigenous in the 6’, making it more marketable. We have had guests on our show ranging from artists, activists, community workers, and a lot of awesome youth! We are excited to have an extensive list of guests booked over the next year who will be joining us.Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Program: The YWNP and Child and Family Sector collaborated with the Nobody’s Perfect program. Nobody’s Perfect is a free parenting program offered to parents/caregivers. The program is facilitated in a group setting by trained community partners. Throughout the course topics include: child growth and development, child health and safety, ways to cope as a parent, how to problem solve and understand a child’s behaviour and community resources. 1st Annual Council Fire’s Youth Pow-Wow “Restoration of Identity”: Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre successfully held our first annual Pow Wow in Regent Park North on August 26, 2017. A pow wow is a gathering of people from all nations to celebrate life in a traditional way. People come together in unity by dancing, singing and praying. Our pow wow was youth-led with over 100 dancers ranging from tiny tot dancers to elders. Indian Residential School Survivors each took time to make their own regalia and had a special coming out ceremony. We had over 3,000 guests join us throughout the day including Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne. We were able to provide over 1,000 gifts for the giveaway at the end. In 2017-2018, the YWNP Sector collectively served 2,413 people.

Youth Wellness Navigation Program

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2017-2018 YOUTH & YOUTH WELLNESS NAVIGATION SECTOR

MCYS - Little Embers Youth $127,088.00 21% MCYS - Youth Wellness Navigation Unit $150,000.00 25%MCYS - Educational Youth Navigator $75,000.00 12%

OFIFC - Wasa Nabin $66,781.00 11%OFIFC - Akwe:go $66,781.00 11% OFIFC - Student Nutrition $7,520.00 1%OFIFC - Youth Life Promotion $102,250.00 2%

RBC - Back Packs $10,000.00 2%

MLSE - Celebration of Life $3,034.00 0%


LEGEND

MCYS - Ministry of Children and Youth ServicesOFIFC - Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship CentresRBC - Royal Bank of CanadaMLSE - Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment Foundation

21%

12%

11%

11%

1%

25%

17%2%

0%

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The Education, Awareness and Wellbeing Sector offers participants the opportunity to revisit and build on their Aboriginal and academic interests. Our flagship program, Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) is funded by the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development and is primarily for learners who wish to prepare for adult secondary school credits, post-secondary programs, training in apprenticeships, and/or employment programs.

In addition to being directly supported by our funder, we are also supported through affiliations with the Metropolitan Toronto Movement for Literacy (MTML) and the Ontario Native Literacy Coalition (ONLC); organizations which provide opportunities for networking and lobbying for LBS related services, operational support, and staff training.The Education Sector also relies on student placements to ensure that our learners receive one-on-one support when needed. Over the past

few years we have fostered academic relationships with the University of Toronto (U of T), Ryerson University, York University, George Brown College and Seneca College.Our LBS Program is a self-directed, self-managed program which assists learners who want to upgrade their core reading, writing, math and basic computer skills. We offer classes in History, Communications, and Contemporary Topics and Art Response. Additionally, we offer drop-in and one-on-one tutorial sessions to students who require a more personalized help. To accommodate learners and their personal schedules, our registration intake is conducted on an ongoing basis. Classes are small, personalized and delivered within an Aboriginal cultural context. This gives learners a sense of community and day-to-day support beyond their academic involvement. We are routinely called upon to be responsive to the

individualized life needs of our learners in an effort to assist them with achieving daily successes. The Sector’s intent is not only to fortify our learners through academics, but also to encourage them to discover and build on their personal strengths, in a nourishing environment that upholds holistic Indigenous teachings and traditions. Included in this intent is the idea of creating positive classroom learning environments that encourage our learners to be expressive of their learning experiences. We acknowledge that our learners have knowledge and understanding to share and we encourage them to participate in sharing circles and one-on-one information sessions that provide valuable feedback to fellow learners, our program facilitators, and our Ministry funder. We help our Learners access services both within and outside of Toronto Council Fire and we provide ongoing support to those moving to next level of their life.Year in ReviewThrough outreach to other organizations, the Education Sector has participated in a variety of networking events. These events ranged from workshops and symposiums concerning the development of Indigenous-based school curriculum, to assisting the LBS Program staff at the Can-Am Indian Friendship Centre in Windsor, Ontario, to disseminating Aboriginal cultural teachings to organizations outside of the Aboriginal community. The Education Sector staff have facilitated workshops and presentations to the Children’s Aid Society of Toronto and the Catholic Children’s Aid Society of Toronto. These presentations were received by CAS/CCAS staff, child care workers, parents, and foster parents. Other activities included involvement with the Restorative Relations Working Group, facilitating professional development workshops at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology - in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, and supporting the Resolution Health team by providing feedback and debriefing consultation to the staff and peer support workers involved with a U of T course called “Sociology of Truth and Reconciliation”.

The Education Sector also participated in the Metro Toronto Movement for Literacy’s “Learning Disabilities Workshop” where LBS staff and students were able to provide input into how various challenges, some not commonly perceived as learning disabilities, affect learning at all levels.During the past year, we also supported other Toronto Council Fire programs and initiatives. These included supporting the Indian Residential School Survivors (IRSS) Legacy project and co-hosting in-house Aboriginal cultural events such as weekly “Creation and Clan Story” workshops.Additionally, both our learners and staff participated in local community projects such as pow wows, the Toronto Street Needs Assessment project (regarding homeless people), and a City of Toronto workshop on “Emergency Preparedness and Response.”Lastly, the Education Sector staff participated in a Tribute Concert Fundraiser which was organized by the Canadian Council for Reform Judaism, for the benefit of Toronto Council Fire.In 2017-2018, the Education, Awareness and Wellbeing Sector (not including Resolution Health), served 2,710 participants.

Education, Awareness and Wellbeing Sector

Harvesting “Lightning Stones”

2017-2018 EDUCATION, AWARENESS AND WELLBEING SECTOR

MAESD - Literacy and Basic Skills $368,899.86 100%


LEGEND

MTCU - Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development

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Resolution Health / Cultural Support & IRSSNaandwidizwin – Wechihitita (Healing Ourselves – Helping Each Other)

The Naandwedizwin-We-chi-hi-tita “Healing Ourselves - Helping Each Other” project facilitates the immediate, ongoing and long-term healing process for Residential School Survivors and their families residing in Toronto. Services include but are not limited to: one-on-one counseling; preparation and follow up support for claim hearings; emotional support at Indian Residential School Survivor (IRSS) circles; workshops to raise awareness & healing modalities dealing with the impact of residential schools; community workshops on grief and loss, parenting, cultural awareness.Weekly Programming consists of:

Motivational Mondays: We explore the city on local outings to engage in physical activity. Some events that have taken place include walking the boardwalk at Cherry Beach, going to see the cherry blossoms at High Park, nature walks through various parks and areas of Toronto.

Healing Circle: On Tuesday afternoons the Peer Support team provides a lunch at noon for the group. After lunch, a three-hour private co-ed healing circle for Indian Residential School Survivors & intergenerational survivors is held. Traditional healing circle and eagle feather protocols are followed and shared with newcomers. A healing component has been added to accommodate open discussion on the topic of healing.Traditional Arts and Craft Circle: The craft circle is held on Wednesday and Thursday and consists of projects the clients can work on a continual basis. We have beading and dream catcher supplies, moccasin making kits, leather and craft supplies that have been donated for clients to share. There are sewing machines available for clients to make traditional skirts, pouches and shawls. All participants are encouraged to make an item for fundraising in exchange for use of supplies.

Tea Time: The craft circle has an added component on Thursday afternoons. Tea time begins with the protocol of smudge and the eagle feather going around while others continue crafting. This group consists mostly of women and has given ladies an opportunity to talk amongst other Survivor peers.

Special Events and Highlights

Council Fire’s First Annual Youth Pow WowSeveral Survivors who participate in programming at Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre began the journey of making their regalia, many of them for the first time. It took an immense amount of courage for the Survivors to take part in this programming. Many of them they had never worn regalia due to the effects of residential school. It took a number of months to complete ribbon skirts, ribbon shirts, moccasins, shawls, applique work and more. When the time came for the beautiful courageous group to dance out in the pow wow arena for the first time it was an emotional time for everyone involved. The entire Council Fire community, family and friends were there to help support the group and show their love and respect for one another. This is one of the many activities that have encouraged, supported and empowered Survivors to reclaim their identity. Oneida-Council Fire Partnership Through-out the 2017-18 Fiscal Year our group created a partnership with the Oneida Nation of the Thames. The Survivors group of Council Fire worked with the Clan Mothers and their families in the Oneida community. We came together through the art of crafting including, sewing, quilting and ribbon skirt making. While working together we were able to share languages with each other and empower each other through sharing skills, teachings and stories.

Partnerships with Colleges and UniversitiesWe shared and celebrated Orange Shirt day by attending a special event at George Brown College where we attended and facilitated a talking circle with students. There was a social honoring the Residential School Survivors afterwards.

Education Sector Resolution Health / Cultural Support

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Council Fire began a new partnership with the University of Toronto. Ten Survivors co-facilitated as knowledge keepers during the fall semester for a course called The Sociology of Truth and Reconciliation. The Survivors who participate shared their stories with the students and in turn the students developed their own personal strategies and calls to action on how they can as individuals work towards reconciliation.

We facilitated many different types of ceremonies for the Survivor community at Council Fire throughout the year including sweat lodge, pipe ceremony, feasting our ancestors, full moon ceremony and pow wows. We look forward to continuing to provide opportunity for our community members to participate in ceremony and to continue to reclaim their identity.

6.49%

82.7%

2017-2018 RESOLUTION HEALTH /CULTURAL SUPPORT & IRSS

HC - Resolution Health Support $191,200.00 82.7%

OFIFC - Restoration of Identity $25,000.00 10.81%

UC - Healing Ourselves Helping Each Other $15,000.00 6.49%


LEGEND

HC - Health Canada OFIFC - Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres UC - United Church

10.81%

35

Remembering

Pearl Martin

and

Margaret Tourville

In Honour and Respect

Funders, Sponsors, Partners/Collaborators and Supporters

FEDERAL

• Aboriginal Labour Force Development Circle (ALFDC)• Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC)• Indian Residential School Adjudication Directorate• Health Canada • Canadian Heritage• Public Health Agency Canada• Services Canada (New Horizons for Seniors)• National Association of Friendship Centres • National Indian Brotherhood Trust Fund (NIB Trust Fund)

PROVINCIAL

• Ministry of Indigenous Affairs (MIA)• Ministry of Children and Youth Services (MCYS)• Ministry of Community Safety & Correctional Services (MCSCS)• Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development • Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry• Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres (OFIFC)

MUNICIPAL / FOUNDATIONS

• City of Toronto • Toronto Public Health (Diabetes) • Investing In Neighbourhoods • Drop In Services• RBC Royal Eagles Backpack Program• Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF)

PARTNERS / COLLABORATORS

• Children of Shingwauk Residential School• Cardiac Heart Foundation of Canada• The Neighbourhood Group• Working Skills Centre (WSC)• Evergreen Brick Works• Toronto Aboriginal Support Services

Council (TASSC)• Anishnawbe Health Toronto (AHT)• Aboriginal Legal Services (ALS)• Native Canadian Centre of Toronto (NCCT)• Native Women’s Resource Centre (NWRC)• NaMeRes / Sagatay • Nishnawbe Homes• Native Child and Family Services of Toronto (NCFST)• Southern Ontario Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative (SOADI)• Toronto Urban Native Ministries (TUNM)• Anduhyaun Inc.• Enaahtig Healing Centre• Toronto Police Services (TPS) • Aboriginal Peacekeeping Unit (APU)• Toronto Drop-In Network (TDIN)• Artscape• Metro Toronto Movement for Literacy (MTML)• KidsUpfront • Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Ltd. (MLSE) • Bank of Nova Scotia• Wigwamen Terrace• Leonard Peltier Defence League• Christian Resource Centre (CRC)• 416 Community Centre for Women • John Howard Society• Elizabeth Fry• Dan McArn• United Church Toronto Conference: Living Into Right Relations• Anglican Church of the Redeemer• KAIROS• Sri Sathya Sai Baba Organization• Daily Bread Food Bank• Second Harvest• Windfall• Furniture Bank• Toronto District School Board (TDSB)• Toronto Catholic District Board (TCDSB)• Ontario Institute for Studies in

Education (OISE)• Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD)• Ryerson University• University of Toronto• York University• Seneca College• Humber College• George Brown College• Centennial College• Law Society of Ontario• Mennonite Central• Presbyterian Church of Canada• Aboriginal Education Centre• Art Gallery of Ontario • Association for Native Development in the Performing & Visual Arts (ANDPVA)• ArtHeart• Chum City• Daniels Spectrum• One Laptop Per Child• Ontario Aboriginal HIV/AIDS Strategy• Ontario Science Centre• ProAction Cops N Kids• Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)• Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation• John Howard Society• YWCA / YMCA• Toronto Community Housing• Cancer Care Ontario• CAMH• Humber Arboretum• Parents for Better Beginnings• Regent Park Farmers Market• Regent Park Film Festival • Regent Park Focus • Story Planet • CHILL Toronto • Citadel + Compagnie

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Featured Funders/Partners: The Province of Ontario and the City of Toronto for their participation in the development of the IRSS Legacy Project

IRSS Legacy CelebrationNathan Phillips Square Toronto

October 9-11, 2018

“Attendees from across Turtle Island are expected to attend the three-day celebration.... this will be an amazing opportunity for residential school

survivors from across Canada to gather, participate and honour community strength and resilience.”

Right: 1910 A Medicine Man of the Blood tribe (Blackfoot Confederacy) standing in front of a teepee - Lethrbridge, Alberta

www.councilfire.ca

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