Building for the Future

Anishiative continues to attract committed people to the cause. The most recent member is Haley, who also works at Prairie Theatre Exchange as a producer and actor. Haley met Rylee when she was doing a documentary about encampments and the effects of COVID-19, but has evolved her commitment, taking on operational and planning activities. Another team member, River Fontaine, does group facilitation, workshops and traditional games.

Regarding the future, Rylee says “We want to be able to provide all-season, land-based programming to Indigenous youth. We’re aiming to offer a traditional healing program, leadership programs at our 366 McGregor site year-round, and our Community Care Camps during the wintertime.”

Like a lot of social organizations, sustainable operational funding is a critical component to long term viability.

“A lot of what we do right now is based on project funding,” adds Rylee. “It can be hard to keep people on staff when we don’t have projects ongoing. Right now it’s important that we get operational funding; so we have a foundation to support our projects and have a continuous line through it. We want to keep giving the community the things they need and want.”

When asked about additional needs, Haley says: “More volunteers are always welcome! We’re always looking for more people to join us in our work and in our circle.” 

“We’re always open for collaboration and to partner up,” agrees Rylee. “We’re always looking for youth who are willing to engage in their community and help, or just learn more about their culture.”