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Youth and Youth Wellness Sector
In our Youth and Youth Wellness Sector, we are committed to improve the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of urban Indigenous youth and children, ages 7-29. We offer a wide range of programs and opportunities that foster personal development, encourage leadership, and promote community engagement.
Here, young people find a supportive and inclusive environment that values diversity and creativity.
All of our programs are designed to be inclusive and welcoming to individuals from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous backgrounds.
Programs
Akwe:go Program
Akwe:go is a dynamic program that celebrates Indigenous culture through dance and the teachings of the medicine wheel. It is tailored for urban Indigenous children and youth, offering them a sense of belonging and purpose. Safety and well-being are our top priorities, providing youth with a safe, accepting space to embrace their cultural heritage within the Toronto Council Fire Programs.
First Fire Dance
This program explores various dance styles, including hoop and hip-hop, as creative expressions of cultural identity. Medicine wheel teachings honour all nations and life within, fostering self-discovery and interconnectedness.
After School
Our after-school program runs from Monday to Wednesday, 3:30 to 5:30, offering a supportive space for urban Indigenous youth. Rooted in cultural values, we aim to enhance mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Through various engaging activities, we focus on personal development, leadership skills, and fostering a sense of community.
Who can participate
Youth aged 7-12.
Funded by OFIFC
Wasa-Nabin Program
The Wasa-Nabin program is rooted in our cultural traditions, creating a warm and welcoming space for urban Indigenous children and youth in the city. This program offers a bunch of different approaches, like one-on-one activities, group events, chances to take the lead, and family circles, all aimed at supporting well-being while embracing our heritage. The Wasa-Nabin program provides support for children and youth in various aspects of their lives, including social skills, education, disability assistance, violence prevention, justice system support, child welfare, 2SLGBTQ+ resources, and healthy lifestyle practices.
Who can participate
Youth aged 13-18.
Funded by OFIFC
Embers Program
The Embers program provides a welcoming and all-inclusive space for urban Indigenous children and youth. The program also offers individualized goals to enhance the youth’s areas of need, supporting social skills, educational intervention, positive nutrition, and physical activity practices. This includes a drop-in space for socializing, outings around the GTA, seasonal trips, and various activities. The Embers program creates a safe and accepting environment for urban Indigenous children and youth, where they can be themselves. Our programs prioritize inclusivity and make the safety and well-being of all clients and participants our number one goal.
Who can participate
Youth aged 14-19.
Funded by Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services
Youth Life Promotions Program
The program is a community-driven initiative that aims to sustain and improve youth well-being, including physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects. The program will achieve this goal by facilitating access to knowledge exchanges with Elders/Traditional Knowledge holders and providing cultural teachings, traditional medicines, food education, and language retention and reclamation.The program offers Youth Culture Camps that provide access to water and land-based activities. These camps are seasonal, responsive to local youth schedules and availability, and align with Indigenous seasonal cycles where appropriate. All YLP programming will be inclusive and safe for Two-Spirit and Indigenous LGBTQ+ youth.
Who can participate
Youth aged 19-29.
Funded by OFIFC