New services available to AKRC First Nations
Anishinaabeg of Kabapikotawangag Resource Council
AKRC along with Indigenous Affairs Ontario (IAO) introduces the following services open to the 5 bands, the program is expected to run until June 30, 2021.
Background:
First Nation communities are facing urgent mental health and addictions (MHA) crisis because of COVID-19 pandemic. This program is designed to support community based and community driven initiatives that address MHA needs for the most vulnerable including children, youth, elders, and individuals in crisis. Since the pandemic, many communities have cancelled and postponed community activities that have led to isolation and the increased use of drugs and alcohol of all ages which is co-related with, among other issues, suicide, depression, violence, and further isolation.
This new program is designed to provide members opportunities to learn of our culture /traditions and to reconnect with the community. These include land- based teachings and activities. In addition, clients will have access to counselling sessions that will include ceremony either individually or family session to help address the systemic problems that arise from addictions.
Trauma Informed Cultural Practitioner (Professional), Al Hunter
Al Hunter (Mashkawegaabo) Atik n’doodem, is Anishinaabe from Manitou Rapids, Rainy River First Nations in Treaty 3 territory. His approach to helping is one of being trauma-informed in cross-cultural practices and support for Anishinaabeg peoples and communities. Al has worked as a long term, trauma-informed worker in the north and continued to travel there before the pandemic. He has been involved in work and support surrounding MMIWG’s and their families for over 10 years both personally and professionally. Al works with the following organizations and communities in an ongoing advisory or professional capacity: Ontario Native Women’s Association; Aboriginal Shelters of Ontario; Ginoogaming First Nation (Matatwa); Family Information Liaison Unit – Ontario (support for families and circles).
Al Hunter is available to the 5 FN’s (7 communities)
Contact information
Rhonda Nash @ Email director@akrc.on.ca
Elaine Ross @ Email: csdw@akrc.on.ca
Vanessa Powassin @ Email: covid@akrc.on.ca
Al Hunter @ Email: alhunter58@gmail.com
Important Note: AKRC continues to be closed and all staff are working from home.
“Our Anishinaabe way of life & ceremony is our ‘Education’. It is provided by mother earth that is governed by Natural laws & kept by our knowledge keepers. Our Anishinaabe ways is central to our teachings & learning of the Anishinaabe ways to live.”