Information and Inspiration about work in BC's Aboriginal Non-profit sector.
Nurturing a healthy Aboriginal non-profit sector.
Driven by the desire to improve the health and well-being of BC’s Indigenous people, several prominent provincial Indigenous organizations came together to develop a social legacy from the Cowichan 2008 North American Indigenous Games—a legacy that would lead to transformative change in the health and well-being of Indigenous people across the province.
Sacred Wolf Friendship Centre serves urban Aboriginal populations in Port Hardy, Port McNeill, Zeballos, and Woss on the north end of Vancouver Island. Programs offered by the Centre include family support, community health care, and social activities for Elders.
The mandate of the Society is to preserve the cultural heritage of the Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw people who inhabit the north end of Vancouver Island and nearby islands. The Society’s most notable achievement has been the repatriation of potlatch artifacts seized by government. These artifacts, known as the “Potlatch Collection”, are on display at the U’mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay.
Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum’ means “Cowichan teachings house”. The Centre promotes Cowichan culture and language to both First Nation and non-First Nation people, and provides educational support to Cowichan Tribes members. The success of the Centre’s programs is due to its holistic approach to improving the quality of life for all members and integrating its services with other Band and community services.
The Nuu-chah-nulth are Indigenous people whose homelands are on the west coast of Vancouver Island. NTC provides health and social services to approximately 9,500 registered members of Nuu-chah-nulth Nations. It also represents the Nations in fostering treaty negotiations with Canada and British Columbia.
The Le-La-La Dancers are a traditional Kwakwaka’wakw (pronounced kwa kwa key wok) dance company who present First Nations culture of Northern Vancouver Island. The group has shared their culture by entertaining and educating throughout the world for over 25 years under the direction of George Me’las Taylor.
The mission of the First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation is to inspire and empower BC First Nations to revitalize their languages, arts and cultures. Human and financial resources are urgently needed as we race against time to avoid the extinction of precious Indigenous heritage.
The Coqualeetza Cultural Education Centre is located in Chilliwack. Its operating philosophy is that it belongs to the Sto:lo people but that it is open to all Aboriginal peoples, students and educators. The Centre offers cultural programs and services that enhance Aboriginal pride while fostering social adjustment.
The Wachiay Friendship Centre serves the urban Aboriginal population in the Comox Valley Regional District. Wachiay is an inclusive organization, and its programming is open to people of all ethnicities. Wachiay delivers more than 50 programs, including legal assistance, employment services, activities for Elders and youth, and homeless outreach.
NIMA serves the interests of Métis people residing in the north of Vancouver Island, from Campbell River to Port Hardy. NIMA holds various social events such as Louis Riel Day celebrations and also participates in local celebrations such as National Aboriginal Day.
