From the Executive Director …

During the past year, we have striven to do things in a good way. We did so as a collective and a dedicated team, and it is something that I am honoured and humbled to be part of. The staff, community, management, board, Traditional Healers and connection with spirit have led us through a year of heavy hearts, a community in need and a changing city. We honour our connection to culture and spirit to guide our work.

I am grateful to say that we have been supported by a vast number of donors this year, from artists, foundations, businesses and community members who recognized us and supported the enhancement of programs and services that we offer to our community. Chi-Miigwetch for your kind efforts in supporting the work of the Centre.

An acknowledgement goes to our funders: with your work and support, we have achieved amazing things within our community. Thanks to those who are trying to redesign the contributions and process for the Indigenous community, taking time to discuss decolonizing the process and structures.

Thank you to the NWRCT staff for your commitment and dedication. The year has not been easy for any person, and each of you showed up and gave all you could to express love for the community. You represent inspiration and demonstrate commitment to the community we are here for. The Centre and each of you remained essential, valuable and critical to the continuum of services.

I want to thank our Board of Directors for their devotion, guidance and commitment. Chi-Miigwetch for their ongoing collective leadership and support to the Executive Director role and to the Centre, and for taking on all the extra hours to elevate the governance and leadership of the agency. You each bring unique perspectives that round out the vision for NWRCT. Your support and friendly care ensure wellness, longevity and enthusiasm.

A very special moment of acknowledgment to our Traditional Healers, Mary Ann Shoefly and Judy Sackaney, for keeping us grounded, for nurturing our spirits and guiding us through each day. You elevated each person’s spirits and understandings, and supported the direction of the Centre’s work. In great times of need, the community could turn to each of you for ceremony, sessions, programs and medicines. Chi-Miigwetch for improving us and supporting growth in every direction, while maintaining ceremonies and cultural remembering. The community never went without access to their culture or ceremony. With you, we were able to elevate the women’s teachings and the access to tools for recalling the woman’s sacred power.

These past two years have been challenging with a lasting pandemic, recovered graves from residential schools, increased costs and an urgency to address homelessness. I am proud to say that amid all of this, NWRCT continued and strived to offer programs and supports to maintain the well-being and spiritual growth in our community. We do not go without error or tiring days, but with the harmony of our team and community we stepped up for each person who came to our Centre and will continue to do so. I am grateful and humbled to work within and amongst such special spirit and community members.

We will continue to rise and advocate and support in various ways until each woman and child is elevated to their sacred space in community and on Turtle Island.

Chi-Miigwetch,

Pamela Hart

Executive Director