Culture

 From our creation VACFSS has known the essential role culture plays in helping and healing Aboriginal children and families.  And it has been culture that has been at the heart of our programs, policies and procedures ever since. 

We know that culture is neither homogenous, nor static.  It grows and is unique to the people who give it life.  Aboriginal peoples from across Canada are diverse.  Each carries a spirit of culture that nourishes and sets them free.  It is when people become disconnected from their culture that they become disconnected from this spirit that links them to their land, their people and their history.  Despite the challenge of serving people from over 100 different Aboriginal communities across Canada, we are always striving to unite our clients with their individual cultures.

It is through celebrations such as homecoming and naming ceremonies that we can help strengthen the bonds of families.  Through conferences like our Sharing Pathways to Cultural Knowledge, staff, foster parents and community partners can share in learning from the wisdom of Elders.  And by accompanying children in care back to the land of their families, we are creating a link to their cultures and families which will help serve these children as a guide and thread of strength.

 
Sharing Pathways to Cultural Knowledge Conferenc [May 2007]

Naming Ceremony

Home Coming Ceremony

National Aboriginal Day, Trout Lake [June 21, 2007]