The Youth Cultural Resource works in collaboration with Nogojiwanong youth initiatives to integrate Indigenous culture, traditions, and teachings into youth programming and community events. This program promotes cultural awareness, supports language revitalization, and educates youth about their heritage, fostering a strong sense of Indigenous identity and community. By offering access to traditional medicines, teachings, and cultural activities, the program empowers youth to embrace their culture and strengthen their connection to it.

Objective:

To foster a deep sense of pride, identity, and belonging among Indigenous youth by providing access to cultural teachings, traditional practices, and peer support. The program aims to create safe, inclusive spaces where youth can learn, grow, and connect with their culture while developing leadership skills.

Program Services:

• Access to Traditional Medicine: Provides youth with access to Indigenous healing practices and natural medicines.
• Safe and Inclusive Environment: Creates a supportive, welcoming space for youth to express themselves and engage with their culture.
• Cultural Learning Opportunities: Supports youth in learning traditional knowledge and practices through educational activities.
• Peer Support: Facilitates mentorship and support among peers to encourage personal development and community building.

Program Activities:

• Medicine Walks: Outdoor excursions where youth learn about traditional plants, their medicinal uses, and cultural significance.
• Hiking: Promotes physical wellness and connection to the land through outdoor activities.
• Cooking and Baking Workshops: Teaching traditional Indigenous recipes and cooking methods while fostering community engagement.
• Traditional Art Workshops: Hands-on activities where youth can learn about and create traditional art forms, including beadwork, pottery, and weaving.

Hand-in-Hand Partnership Programs:

• Wasa-Nabin: A self-development program for at-risk Indigenous youth that focuses on goal setting, leadership, and healthy decision-making.
• Akwe:go: A program aimed at supporting urban Indigenous children (ages 7-12) by focusing on their overall well-being and cultural identity.
• Healthy Kids: A program designed to improve the health and wellness of Indigenous children and families through physical activities and educational workshops.
• Alternative Secondary School Program: A culturally relevant educational program designed to support Indigenous students who may be struggling in the mainstream education system.
• Indigenous Family Support (IFS): A program that strengthens the spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being of Indigenous families, with a focus on parenting and early childhood development. This program supports cultural engagement and provides services that benefit both youth and families.