Building Strong Foundations

2015
Building Strong
Foundations
Our Vision
Wabano (Ojibwe): New Beginnings
We believe that good medicine is
characterized by
• Reclaiming culture as a pillar of healing
• The teaching and healing practices of First
Nations, Inuit, and Métis
• A contemporary model of quality, primary
healthcare
• Focusing on the individual in the context of
their family and the community
• Believing in the wisdom of Elders, traditional
healers, and teachers
• Believing in the importance of traditional
ceremony and celebration
A world in which First Nations, Inuit and Métis have
achieved full and equitable access to the conditions
of health, including: pride in ancestry, cultural
reclamation, peace, shelter, education, food, income,
a stable environment, resources, and social justice. And where the gifts and wisdom of First Nations,
Inuit and Métis cultures are recognized as distinctive
and beautiful.
About Us
The Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health is an
award-winning and internationally recognized
healthcare facility located in Ottawa, Ontario. For
over 16 years, we have been leading the way in
community based, holistic healthcare. The belief that
the mind, body, and spirit must all be cared for is at
the heart of what we do. Each year, Wabano provides
a combination of traditional healing services,
primary care, cultural programming, community
development initiatives, and social support systems
to over 13,000 First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. In
addition to providing quality health services, Wabano
is a place where Aboriginal pride is flourishing and is
now better understood and appreciated by the wider
community.
Leading the way
“Our teachings passed on through our
culture, present us with the understanding
and tools to create strong and healthy
communities.”
– Allison Fisher, Executive Director
Mission Statement
At Wabano, we are leading the way in community
based, holistic healthcare.
Wabano serves more than 13,000 people from
Ottawa’s Aboriginal population through our health,
social and cultural services. As the population grows,
so do we. Each year, we expand to better meet the
health and social needs of Aboriginal people living in
Ottawa.
We implement programs so our children can succeed
in school, our youth can explore new possibilities,
and our mothers can receive quality natal care and
support.
Our mission is to:
• Provide quality, holistic, culturally-relevant health
services to First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Ottawa
• Engage in clinical, social, economic and cultural
initiatives that promote the health of Aboriginal
people
• Promote community-building through education
and advocacy
• Serve as a centre of excellence for urban Aboriginal
health
We continue to better our health services so future
generations have strong foundations to build their
lives. We provide cultural safety training to support
community service providers who work with
Aboriginal people.
In recognition of the leadership and vision
that makes Wabano what it is today, Executive
Director Ms Allison Fisher was appointed to
The Order of Ontario by the Honourable David C.
Onley, on January 23rd, 2014.
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Our Story
Wabano hosts over 40 different programs,
services and cultural events, such as: • After school programs
• Client advocacy and tenant assistance
• Cultural education workshops
• Culture Night
• Fitness groups and activities
• Health promotion programs
• Homelessness and outreach services
• Quality healthcare for all ages
• Services navigation for families and youth
• Support for mental health
• Walk-in health and counseling clinics
• Year-round cultural events
Living in the city, many Aboriginal people struggle
to connect with culture and traditions. Since opening
in 1998, the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health
has been a place of cultural belonging for Ottawa’s
Aboriginal population. More than 30 percent of
Ottawa’s Aboriginal population uses the services and
support provided by Wabano.
To meet the growing demand of our programs
and services, in 2011, Wabano underwent a major
expansion. We endeavored to create a space where
Aboriginal people can better access the care and
support they need to be well and live the good life.
A place where they can walk in and see the beauty of
their people around them. A place that says we are a
part of this city, and we belong.
On May 9th, 2013, the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal
Health celebrated the grand opening of its new
building on 299 Montreal Road. This magnificent
structure, designed by renowned architect Douglas
Cardinal, is a 25,000-square-foot complex that
embodies the hearts, identities, and expressions of
Aboriginal people. An unmistakable landmark in the
Nation’s Capital, the undulating glass and smooth
signature curves of the Wabano Centre evoke a sense
of renewed life and flowing water.
Most important, our expanded facilities allow us to
increase our programs and services. The new centre
boasts a maternal and child wellness centre, social
enterprise programming, expanded mental health
services, and much more. Our re-imagined cultural
gathering space is a place to reconnect, learn from
the teachings of our Elders, and come together as a
community.
In 2014, Wabano received funding
from the Ontario Trillium Foundation
for the Cultural Safety Training
program
“Cultural safety has always been regarded
as an important part of our organization.
We are very confident that the outcome will
be positive and will lead to better health
outcomes for the Aboriginal community in
Ottawa.”
– Board President Pierre Gauthier
“I am pleased to announce today that the
Wabano Centre is receiving funding from
the Ontario Trillium Foundation to ensure
the development of a curriculum to be used
for cultural training of its service providers.
This cultural competency training stresses
the importance of ensuring a culturally
appropriate environment in order to remove
all barriers to the centre’s clientele.”
– Madeleine Meilleur, MPP for Ottawa-Vanier.
When people walk through our doors they see who we
are as people. The new centre is also a hub for cultural
education—a place where the broader community
can engage with Aboriginal people in a positive and
meaningful way.
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Thanks to a two-year $150,000 grant from the Ontario
Trillium Foundation, Wabano will be able to further
develop a curriculum that will result in culturally safe
and competent care for Aboriginal people living in
Ottawa.
Wabano provides training for health professionals,
Ottawa Police Services, The Children’s Aid Society, and
other community service agencies. The training focuses
on issues impacting the mental health and wellbeing
of Aboriginal children and families, and how they can
incorporate cultural awareness into their work.
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HEALTHY KIDS
COMMUNITY CHALLENGE
WABANO CENTRE
The Healthy Kids Strategy is focused on
three pillars:
Healthy Start: supporting healthy pregnancy
and early years to build the foundation for
healthy childhood and beyond.
Healthy Food: initiatives to promote healthy
eating, achieving healthy weights and healthy
childhood development.
Healthy Active Communities: building healthy
environments for kids in their communities.
For more information about Ontario’s Healthy
Kids Strategy, please visit: http://www.health.
gov.on.ca/en/public/programs/healthykids/
This past year, the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal
Health was selected by the Ministry of Health and
Long-Term Care as a partner in Ontario’s Healthy
Kids Strategy. The strategy is aimed at reducing
childhood obesity and breaking down barriers to
healthcare in higher-needs communities. Over the
next four years, Wabano will receive funding and
support to provide children with a healthy start, and
promote healthy lifestyles in youth.
My Healing Place
Dedicated to the Elders, Staff, and Volunteers
of the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health
When I could no longer see the great eagles
When I could no longer hear the ancient heartbeat
When I could no longer smell the sacred medicines
When I could no longer taste those healing herbs
And when my heart was nothing more than flesh
It was then, I sought to find my healing place.
Reducing the impact of factors that contribute to
childhood obesity means that future generations
are empowered to make healthy choices, and reduce
the risk factors for illnesses such as diabetes and
cardiovascular disease.
At Wabano, we look forward to
participating in the Healthy
Kids Community Challenge and
promoting healthy habits in
children, youth, and their
families.
Sacred and strong, now I rise
With smiles and songs
For the seasons and the land
Have removed from me the afflicted blanket
And I soar at last in brightness with hawks and eagles.
Ho, and I will forevermore be grateful
For the council fire kindled by Elders
And for the wisdom in the utterances of children
To them, I offer medicines and strawberries
For it is their Good Hearts
That warm my healing place.
By Albert Dumont
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The
Songideyewin
Project
Songideyewin means “To stand up to,” at the same
time it means “To be strong hearted,” or “To show
courage.” The ability to stand up to diabetes only
happens when all aspects of wellness—mental,
emotional, physical, and spiritual—are in balance. In March 2015, the Songideyewin Project was
approved for funding by the Ministry of Health and
Long-Term Care as part of the Stand Up To Diabetes
initiative. The Songideyewin Project is a culture based
approach to supporting mental health initiatives for
Aboriginal people living with diabetes.
Both diabetes and mental health diagnoses are in
the top five reasons for medical visits at Wabano.
Individuals who are diagnosed with diabetes
frequently experience low self-esteem and anxiety
that can lead to depression. There are currently 373
individuals who access Wabano’s diabetes programs.
Seventy-five percent of these individuals experience
mental health issues—the most common being
depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Diabetes Education and Support
The Wabano Diabetes Program provides diabetes
education, treatment, and management support
for individuals, families, and groups. The staff
are registered professionals who specialize in
diabetes-related health issues among Aboriginal
people.
• One third of the clients registered at the Health
Clinic are diagnosed with either diabetes or
pre-diabetes
• The risk factors for depression are more
prevalent in Aboriginal populations
• Individuals who experience depression have
a 60% increased risk of developing type 2
diabetes
• 10% of people with diabetes are co-diagnosed
with a major depressive disorder
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The Songideyewin project is a 15-month program
aimed at building the capacity of counselors, medical
professionals, Elders, and program coordinators to
better provide the critical mental health support
needed for our clients. The project is the first of its
kind in Ontario, treating mental health and diabetes
holistically to improve self-management skills and
better health outcomes for Aboriginal people living
with diabetes.
We look forward to giving our community the cultural
and clinical tools to be strong of heart standing up to
mental health and diabetes.
Traditional Parenting:
A Strong Cultural Foundation
Strawberry Teachings
“The strawberry teaches forgiveness and peace.
The strawberry is shaped like a heart, and
strawberries are known to our people as heart
berries.”
–Elder Lillian Pitawanakwat
Did You Know
Many cultures consider the strawberry plant to
be a woman’s medicine. It is used to teach about
creation, community, and love. As Ojibwe Elder
Liza Mosher teaches, a young woman fasts from
strawberries and other berries when she gets her
menstrual cycle.
During this year, she spends time with grandmothers
who teach her how to bring life into the world. She
also gathers berries, which she will present to her
community when she completes the fast. She learns
how to care for and sustain her people.
In the words of Mohawk leader Jan Longboat, the
strawberry represents konnonrónhkwa. Commonly
translated as, “I love you,” konnonrónhkwa means
“I show you I care.” As Jan explains, konnonrónhkwa
means caring and sharing with someone from birth
to death. When you say it to someone, you take on
caring for them to the end.
The strawberry reminds us that love is an active
experience—one that involves commitment,
compassion, and caring.
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At Wabano, we are taking the first steps to ensuring
that future generations have strong foundations to
build their lives. By providing women with access
to quality healthcare we are giving children the
best start to life, from the very beginning. We offer
specialized services for women on their parenting
journeys such as family planning resources,
prenatal checkups, and mentoring programs for
mothers. Women have access to an obstetrician and
gynecologist on staff, as well as lactation specialists
and Elders who teach traditional parenting methods.
In addition, Wabano offers new parents a place to
turn to when questions arise, as well as ongoing
support as children grow.
“The mother is the first teacher. It is very
important how the mother is as she prepares
that child for the life path.”
- Liza Gaasongii-Kwe Mosher, Wikemikong First
Nations
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Wabano’s programs and resources for
parents
Moms Mentoring Moms is a breastfeeding support program
that pairs new mothers with a caring mentor who can share her
experiences and listen to questions and concerns. She understands
the unique challenges Aboriginal mothers face, and is there to
help.
Wabano’s model of care for
parents has been documented in
a learning resource for all parents
and caregivers of children. The
Parenting Bundle is a cultural
approach to empowering
Aboriginal parents and caregivers
on their parenting journey.
To learn more or to purchase The
Parenting Bundle, please visit:
www.wabano.com
The Parenting Bundle is a cultural program designed to
reintroduce parents and caregivers to traditional roles and
responsibilities of parenting. It was developed by the Wabano
Parenting Society, comprised of Elders, Knowledge Keepers,
Grandmothers and community members. The Wabano Parenting
Bundle introduces seven bundle items based on the traditional
items that make up the Haudenosaunee bundle: tobacco, stories,
seeds, nourishment, medicines, songs, dances, and deer. Each of
the seven bundle items carries a traditional teaching to support
parents on their journey.
Wabano’s New Pregnancy Circle—Welcomes Fathers and
Partners covers a variety of topics, such as: prenatal lifestyle
assessment, support and pain management during labour and
childbirth, and best practices for infant and childcare. Visiting
specialists include: a prenatal nurse, an obstetrician, local doulas,
a certified prenatal yoga instructor, traditional Elders, an FASD
coordinator, and a breastfeeding coordinator.
The Wabano Post Natal Breastfeeding Support Group is a
friendship circle for new mothers that offers lactation support,
lessons on how to make your own baby food, traditional Elder
teachings on parenting, and post-partum support. An Ottawa
Public Health Nurse is available to answer questions about
breastfeeding and family planning.
Traditional skills for mother
Over 30 mothers learned how to moose hair tuft with
Aboriginal artist Lily Armstrong. They also made
baby moccasins and traditional drum bags. Clients
enjoyed the camaraderie, traditional teachings, and
the new skill.
Watch Me Grow Watch Me Go! is a relaxing and fun-filled program
designed to follow babies and children on their exciting journey
of development. Children are given the best chance for success,
as both parents and children learn to follow the seasons and the
teachings of Grandmother Moon. Healthy snacks and bus tickets
are provided.
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Raising Healthy Children and
Connecting Youth
Culture is the cornerstone of Wabano’s approach to
health and wellness, and it starts with our children.
By connecting children with their parents, and
youth with their culture, we are preparing future
generations to live well and share their gifts with
others.
Providing quality healthcare for children
The Health Clinic at Wabano has a nurse
practitioner with special training in pediatrics who
does well-baby and well-child checkups.
Our program coordinators and medical staff
place a strong emphasis on preventative care,
especially in areas such as vaccination and dental
health.
A pediatrician with a special interest in ADHD
holds a clinic twice a month for children and youth
up to age 16.
Wabano provides a safe space for children to finish
their homework after school, engage with their peers,
receive one-on-one counseling and support, and gain
valuable life skills such as budgeting for meals and
learning to cook. Our year-round cultural events, as
well as summer and March Break camps are designed
to bring children and youth back to the land to learn
about the roles of nature and experiential play in
Aboriginal cultures.
In addition, Wabano partners with local schools,
service agencies, and healthcare providers to weave a
net of support around our children and youth. We do
this so our youth have a place in the city where they
belong, and so they have the courage and skills to face
life’s challenges.
At Wabano, we are here for our young people, every
step of the way. Furthermore, Wabano provides obstetrical
care from a specialist—giving mother and child
access to high quality healthcare, from the very
beginning.
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At March Break camp children and youth learned how to make a birch
bark canoe, taking turns using the tools and organizing their own
schedules. In addition, campers learned how to make drums and other
traditional crafts. Because many of the campers already had their own
drums, some made drums for campers who had to leave early because
they were sick. The caring and respect they showed for one another
was inspiring.
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Meeting children and youth
where they are
“I found it helpful to know more about
Aboriginal culture because it was very
interesting and it’s always good to know
more about different cultures to eliminate
stereotypes.” –Student
“I wasn’t sure what to expect with this
workshop, but it completely exceeded my
expectations I had. The facilitators did an
amazing job making everyone in the group feel
comfortable and they did that by being open
and sharing their stories and themselves with
the group. Amazing workshop and experience!”
Programs and resources for children, youth and families
The Afterschool Program at Wabano provides a
dedicated space for children and youth ages 7 to 18
to finish their homework, engage with their peers,
and enjoy a healthy meal. The space has computers,
televisions, gaming tables, video game systems, and
equipment for a mini music studio. Swimming, sports,
and leadership clubs are designed to keep kids active
after school hours. March Break and summer camps
are also offered through the Afterschool program.
The Aboriginal Schools Liaison supports selfidentified First Nations, Inuit and Métis students who
attend school in the Ottawa-Carleton District School
Board, from Kindergarten to Grade 12. The liaison
acts as an advocate for students and their families
between home and school, and provides resources
to enhance cultural awareness in the classroom.
The Aboriginal Schools Liaison can meet with you at
your school to discuss collaboration opportunities
to help students and teachers learn more about
contemporary and traditional First Nations, Inuit,
and Métis cultures, histories, and perspectives.
There are many ways a liaison is there to help:
• Culture workshops for teachers and students
• Presentations on cultural safety
• Class trips to the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal
Health
• Presence and support at school events and
meetings
• Professional development sessions for educators
and administrators
The After School Program is open on Tuesdays,
Wednesdays, and Thursdays, from 3:00pm to 6:00pm.
Mental health services for children and youth
• Children, youth and family therapy
• Drop-in emergency crisis
• Systems navigation for youth
• Traditional healing and Elder teachings
• Various year-round cultural activities
• Life skills education
• Referrals to other services in Ottawa
“From a young age, children are taught that
when they think of something, they need to
also feel it. And when they feel something,
they also need to think about it.”
–Teacher
–Rita Pitka Blumenstein, Yupik Elder
“I enjoyed the opportunity to come together as
learners—adults and students both. I gained
a new perspective on Residential Schools—
focusing on community and the need to
rebuild.”
Circle of Care: Peaceful Resolutions for Families is
how Wabano honours the connection children have to
their parents, family, and community. Circle of Care
helps families navigate the child welfare system and
connects them with community resources. It brings
together parents, relatives, friends, communities and
Elders to create a plan for the safety and wellbeing of
children, and to find peaceful resolutions.
Creative Arts Therapy is a one-on-one program for
children ages 3 to 12. Children explore their feelings
through play, storytelling, drama, and visual arts and
crafts. Therapeutic play allows children to express
themselves in a free and natural way, and provides
support for children who are healing.
The Flotilla for Friendship is an annual one-day
canoe trip for youth to build positive relationships
with members of the Ottawa Police Service.
By creating positive relationships the Flotilla aims to
break through stereotypes and build understanding.
–Teacher
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The Aboriginal Systems Navigator supports First
Nations, Inuit, and Métis children and youth with
complex mental health and addiction needs. We help
children, youth and families sort through a complex
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“The Circle teaches us that we are all
different. We all bring different gifts, abilities
and life experiences to our relationships in
the Circle. Difference is to be honoured. We
are taught to be open to those differences
that we experience in others.”
—Jim Albert, Elder
Health Bundles at Wabano provides drug prevention
for youth ages 13 to 24 through various workshops,
activities and partnerships. and family counseling is also available. Working Hope
hosts events such as traditional arts and crafts, suicide
awareness, traditional healing, talking circles, and visits
with Elders. Our services are open to Aboriginal children
and youth ages 5 to 24, and their families.
The Junior Volunteer Program helps young people
give back to the centre on Fridays by doing various
tasks. Volunteers aged 12 to 18 lend a helping hand
to seniors, set up for events, and help with general
administration.
Wasanabin Youth Program provides one-onone support for children and youth ages 13 to 18.
Wasanabin means, “To look ahead.” With the support
and teachings of Elders and Wabano coordinators,
our youth are empowered to make healthy decisions,
engage in their community, participate in Aboriginal
culture, and succeed in school.
We offer many sub-programs and services such as:
• Youth Diversion and Reintegration
• Let’s Get Creative
• Youth In Transition
• First Aid and CPR
• Youth Kitchen
• Help with homework
• Counseling services
Wabano’s Youth Circle gathers every week in Wabano’s
traditional cedar lodge. Intended for Aboriginal youth
ages 12 to 18, the program offers youth a safe space to
discuss matters that are important to them. Aboriginal
teachings are incorporated, and youth are encouraged to
share their perspectives and experiences. The goal is for
youth to develop a stronger sense of self awareness and
support one another. The Youth Diversion Program at Wabano provides
culturally appropriate support for Aboriginal youth in
conflict with the law between 12 and 17 years of age.
The program partners with legal and social services,
and provides young offenders with programs to
redirect youth from the justice system.
Understanding the past
From the 1960s to the late 1980s, about 20,000
Aboriginal children were taken from their
families and fostered or adopted to mostly nonAboriginal families. This came to be known as
the Sixties Scoop. Today, Aboriginal children
continue to be separated from their families at
an alarming rate.
Thirty to 40 percent of children involved
with the Children’s Aid Society are Aboriginal.
Wabano sees this reality—and the emotional
fallout—every day. More than half of the
children and youth who access Wabano’s mental
health programs have a history of foster care, or
are adopted.
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Youth in Transition helps Aboriginal youth who are
transitioning out of foster care system. By focusing
on the strengths of the individual, this program
reduces the impacts of challenging life events and
empowers youth to stand strong and independent.
The program aims to help youth ages 16 to 24 who
were crown wards, or are presently in foster care.
Youth Kitchen was created to provide youth with
knowledge on how to prepare simple, healthy and
nutritious meals. This weekly, hands-on activity
builds self-esteem and gives youth tips and tricks for
eating healthy on a young person’s budget. To learn more about the children and youth
programs at Wabano, or to get involved, please visit
www.wabano.com.
Working Hope is a holistic and culture based
mental health and addictions program guided by the
four core Indigenous values: belonging, mastery,
interdependence, and generosity. Through the
program, Wabano meets children and youth where they
are, in schools and community service agencies, and
connects them with support systems. Individual, group,
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The Youth Reintegration Program at Wabano
supports Aboriginal youth between 12 and 17 years
of age who are in conflict with the law. With the help
of the coordinator, youth will develop an action plan
that is culture based and addresses their specific
needs. We introduce Aboriginal youth to a variety of
activities that will lead to sustainable healthy choices.
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Culture
Corner at
Wabano
Culture and Community
Programs
At Wabano, culture is at the heart of our community.
Talking circles, visits with Elders, craft workshops,
and medicine walks are commonplace in all our
social and cultural programs. The Wabano Centre for
Aboriginal Health offers culturally rich programming
and events for First Nations, Inuit and Métis of all
ages.
The Aboriginal Carving Empowerment Circle (ACEC)
is a cultural initiative for community members at
Wabano to learn traditional carving techniques
with wood, antler, bone and stone, using the Seven
Grandfather Teachings. Bus tickets and a homecooked lunch are provided.
From Wabano’s weekly Culture Night to our annual
Igniting the Spirit Gala, Wabano celebrates the
beauty of Indigenous cultures and the strength of our
community.
Culture Night is a chance for the community to
come together, listen to teachings from an Elder
and participate in cultural activities. First Nations,
Inuit and Métis are all represented at Culture Night.
Many of our other programs are hosted at Culture
Night, making it easy for families and groups to arrive
together and participate fully.
Wabano offers year-round cultural activities
and events, such as:
• Beading Circles
• Moccasin Making Workshop
• Moose Hair Tufting
• Paint Your Own Drum
• Sweat Lodges
Culture night activities include:
• Youth circle
• Quit smoking drop-in
• Traditional teaching
• Social drum
• Men’s drum circle
• Pow Wow dance drop-in
• Traditional crafts
• Intergenerational programming
You can also stay fit with Wabano by joining
any of our fitness classes:
• Box Fit
• Nature in Motion
• Snowshoeing
• Tai Chi
• Walking Groups
• Yoga
• Youth Swim
• Zumba
To see what cultural programs or fitness activities
are being offered at this time, please visit our
Programs Calendar at www.wabano.com.
Community Kitchen is a chance for everyone to
learn how to cook healthy and budget-friendly
meals. Every Friday participants prepare, cook,
eat, and clean together. One of our most frequently
accessed programs, the Community Kitchen builds
the capacity of individuals to provide for themselves.
Communication, kitchen best practices, and food
safety are emphasized.
Cultural educational workshops and traditional
ceremonies are offered year-round. Our workshops
and ceremonies are based on Aboriginal beliefs,
values, and traditions that have been passed to
us by Elders, traditional healers, and experts in
mental health. First Nations, Inuit, and Métis are all
welcome.
Family Therapy is a culture based service open
to all Aboriginal families residing in Ottawa.
We offer support with strengthening family
communication, resolving intergenerational trauma,
and helping families reconnect to their culture and
the community. The service seeks to reduce and
eliminate the involvement of The Children’s Aid
Society, and incorporate Aboriginal beliefs into the
healing process.
The Keep it Sacred Quit Smoking Challenge wants
you to keep traditional tobacco sacred. The challenge
is a chance to stay smoke-free and support others, all
while learning about traditional tobacco.
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“…And then he talked about how tobacco has
a spirit and that if you want to change your
relationship with the spirit of tobacco ask it
for help. He said to me, that one must go into
the bush in the silence and make an offering
to the tobacco spirit and ask for help to quit
using tobacco in a non-traditional way.
Offerings are good and they do help.”
–Elder Elsie Sanderson
Mamawi Mondays is a chance for seniors registered
at the Wabano Centre to enjoy healthy food, talking
circles, traditional crafts and good company. In the
spirit of togetherness, Mamawi Mondays are about
helping each other and sharing our gifts.
The Quit Smoking Drop-In is a safe place to
discuss smoking cessation and quitting commercial
tobacco. We provide multi-media presentations and
interactive worksheets to help smokers find ways
to be successful on their journeys. Each week, we
discuss different topics about why we smoke and how
cultural teachings can be used to support each other
in reducing or quitting.
“Wabano’s gala is hands-down the most
spectacular cultural event of the season.
Every year, I am moved by the musical
performance, the unique art pieces, and the
impact of Wabano’s work in the community.
Corporate and community leaders who
attend say the same thing to me each year:
‘I go to make a difference, but I leave being
different myself.’
Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the
vibrant beauty of Aboriginal cultures at
Wabano’s 2015 gala.”
Attend Our Gala
Inspiring cultural performances, stunning auction items,
and Aboriginal-inspired cuisine—Wabano’s Igniting the
Spirit Gala brings together the entire community. The
gala is your chance to support Aboriginal initiatives and
celebrate Aboriginal Day with us.
Wabano is excited to bring Aboriginal cultures and
traditions to the broader community, to inspire new
partnerships, and create new beginnings for healthcare in
Canada. This year, our theme was The Strawberry Moon.
–Shelagh Rogers, CBC Radio One & Gala
emcee
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Caring For the Community:
Health and Wellness
Programs at Wabano
The Awashishak Project
Good Food Box
To keep the community healthy and strong,
Wabano gives families access to fresh vegetables
and fruits from local producers. Food boxes are
available monthly and at a reasonable price.
• $10.00 good for the single person
• $15.00 good for a couple
• $20.00 good for a family
• $25.00 (organic) in season
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and Child Nutrition
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is caused by
prenatal exposure to alcohol. Effects can range from
mild to severe, and the impacts of FASD are lifelong.
Families and individuals affected by FASD may require
additional support and services. The Awashishak
Project at Wabano provides support to those who are
already affected, such as:
• Support groups for families and individuals
• Social events and group outings
• Culture camps and traditional crafts
• Year-round family friendly activities
• Nutrition services for families and children
• Community gardening
FASD Prevention and Parenting Circles
Across Aboriginal cultures, children are our most
treasured resource. Wabano’s weekly parenting circles
help families learn to incorporate cultural values into
daily life—each session begins with a smudge. Our
parenting circles help parents be healthy role models
for their children, so that future generations are
empowered to live free from harmful substances.
Biindahgen Meaning, “Come in.”
Every Friday, The Wabano Homeless Outreach team
welcomes all Aboriginal community members to join
them in a nutritious and balanced meal through the
Biindahgen program that operates from Sandy Hill
Community Centre. We also provide cultural activities,
programming information, nurse practitioner health
services, diabetes screening and education, and
monthly nutrition consults with a registered dietitian.
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HIV and AIDS Education
The HIV and AIDS Program at Wabano offers a holistic approach to improved health and well being through
a series of educational activities. The programs are designed to reduce stigma, and encourage people living
with HIV and their supporters to fully participate at Wabano and the public at large. All programs are
carefully crafted to engage the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of individuals affected by
HIV. Wabano uses the wisdom and experience of our Elders to lead activities and bring comfort and security
to our client base.
Wabano offers two HIV programs that work separately and collaboratively to address issues that Aboriginal
people living with HIV may face.
The Animal Teachers Program uses the Seven Sacred Teachings to openly discuss the impacts of HIV.
Each of the seven animals—the eagle, the buffalo, the bear, the Sabe, the beaver, the turtle, and the wolf—
represent an aspect of human nature that guides us. Self-esteem, good communication, and sound decisionmaking are important to maximize health, and cope with potential stresses. Culture based activities allow
clients to connect with their culture and tap into their creativity, and provide a forum for discussions about
living with HIV.
The Respecting the Earth, Fire and Ourselves Program aims to work collaboratively with Wabano’s Health
Clinic and other prevention programs to promote healthy sexuality in a culturally relevant manner.
The project blends traditional teachings with clinical research to improve the quality of life for Aboriginal
people living with HIV, AIDS, or Hepatitis C. Traditional teachings include community gardening, camp fires,
and medicine walks; all of which are designed to bring people back to the land to learn about medicine and
health. The program works closely with Elders in the community to deliver teachings and provide guidance.
Creative components
• Day trips
• Traditional drums
• Community gardening
• Mask making
• Medicine walks
• Paper mache
• Sweet grass picking
• Talking sticks
• Wampum belt
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Practical components
• Condom distribution
• Dietary information
• Distribution of “Safer Injection Drug Use” materials
• Distribution of safer sex manuals
• HIV testing and clinical access
• Monthly talking circle
• One-on-one counseling and support
• Referrals to the Health Clinic
• Referrals to Wabano’s Mental Health Clinic
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Honouring Sisters in Recovery
Honouring Sisters in Recovery is a talking circle open
to Aboriginal women. The aim is to increase selfawareness and knowledge about addictions, through
holistic healing approaches and traditional teachings.
Living with Diabetes
The Wabano Diabetes Program provides diabetes
education, treatment, and management support
for individuals, families, and groups. Services are
offered at the Wabano Health Clinic and at partnering
locations. The staff are registered professionals who
specialize in diabetes-related health issues among
Aboriginal people.
The Diabetes Clan at Wabano is an exclusive group
for people living with diabetes. The goal is to bring
people living with diabetes together in a supportive,
educational, and culturally safe environment. Clan
Members work together to improve self-management
skills, seek emotional support, and reduce risk factors
for diabetes-related complications. Clan Members receive:
• Monthly email updates on the latest research in
diabetes management
• Invitations to diabetes workshops, presentations,
and events
• Telephone and email reminders for upcoming
appointments
• Nutrition counseling from a registered dietitian
• Foot care and chiropody services
• Assistance with obtaining, using, and disposing of
diabetes care supplies
• Access to the Wabano Diabetes Sharing Circle
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Truth and Reconciliation
The Wabano Residential Schools Exhibit is a permanent and
accessible display for students and the community to learn about
history through the eyes of Aboriginal people. Developed in
partnership with the Legacy of Hope Foundation, the exhibit is
a place of truth and reconciliation—a place where the stories of
survivors and their families are honoured. Wabano’s commemorative
Residential Schools Exhibit is a safe space for dialogue, connection,
education, healing, and understanding.
In celebration of the National Day of Healing and Reconciliation, high
school students from Prince Rupert, British Columbia journeyed to
Ottawa to present the people of Canada with their Box of Hope. The
box was created by the students to promote fairness and equity for
Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal children. The box was received in a
small ceremony at the Residential Schools Exhibit on June 11, 2013.
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Make an
Impact
“Amazed at the amount of history
that I was never taught.”
“Beautiful facility and people. Thank
you for sharing your stories and
lessons with us.”
Reality for Aboriginal people in Canada today:
• Aboriginal people in Canada have up to a 10
year shorter life expectancy
• Chronic disease rates are three to five times
higher than the national average
• Fifty-two percent of Aboriginal children live
in poverty
• Nearly half of children in foster care are of
Aboriginal ancestry
• Suicide rates are six times the national
average
• In Ottawa, Aboriginal people make up five
percent of the general population but 30% of
the homeless.
Thank You
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, and the
dedication of our volunteers, 2014-15 has been an
incredible year. Your support has helped Wabano to
become a beacon for Aboriginal health and culture in
Ottawa. Meegwetch!
Buy a tile
The heart of Wabano’s Cultural Gathering Space
highlights a beautiful Star Blanket Floor. This floor
is comprised of 2,048 intricate tiles. Choose a tile to
purchase and virtually inscribe two names, leaving
a legacy of support and hope for the health and
wellbeing of Wabano’s community.
Buy a Pillar
Wabano has 26 covered Pillars that can be named
for a donation of $35,000. Four of these Pillars have
already been purchased. They are beautifully clad and
each adorned with a silken flag, representing the 13
Grandmother Moons. Pillars can be chosen according
to a month of significance (birthdays, anniversaries,
etc) or according to a tenet of the associated teachings
(respect, education, reflection, etc)
Be a Messenger
Our Elders tell us that visitors carry important
messages from one place to another. Invite your
friends for a tour of Wabano to learn about the unique
work and cultural space provided here, including a
stop at our historical residential school exhibit. Wabano 2015
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“Even hearing a story can be healing, so can
telling our story. People need to tell their
stories, to be acknowledged, to feel part of a
human community.”
-Lewis Mehl-Madrona, Cherokee Healer
“Wabano is a special place that has brought
me so much more than I will ever be able to
express.”
—Alister, volunteer at Wabano
At Wabano, we are reversing trends:
• 1501 participants reached through the
Aboriginal Schools Liaison
• 1690 mothers accessed Wabano’s perinatal
programs
• 2771 youth attended the Youth Diversion
Program
• 28 children and youth attended March Break
Camp
• 3176 Aboriginal youth were reached through
the Youth Reintegration Program
• 3225 people attended Nature Medicine
programs and workshops
• 34 youth were engaged through Wasanabin’s
Youth Program
• 4050 parents and children attended FASD
Prevention and Child Nutrition programs
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Make a Donation
Your donations enable Wabano to:
• Invest in the futures of Aboriginal youth, women,
and seniors living in Ottawa
• Create real change in the cycle of poverty and
unemployment among Aboriginal people
• Strengthen the local economy through training and
education programs
• Continue our work as a centre of excellence, sharing
best practices for Aboriginal healing across the
country
Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health is committed
to recognizing our major donors who have made our
journey to success possible. For information please
visit www.wabano.com or email give@wabano.com. Tell your story
Wabano has been bringing together the
Aboriginal community in Ottawa for over 16 years.
To commemorate this exciting milestone, we would
like to document the stories of what Wabano has
meant to you and your families.
Stories bind a community with its past and future.
If you are willing to share with us, we would love
to hear your story and how Wabano has made a
difference for you, your family, or the community.
We can come to you to hear your story, or you can
come to us.
Volunteer with us
The Volunteer Program finds talented volunteers with
diverse backgrounds to support the Wabano team
with their mandate. There are over 200 dedicated
volunteers at Wabano who contribute over 1,200
hours a month.
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Planning an
event?
Filled with natural light, grand ceilings, and aweinspiring architecture, the Wabano Centre is a truly
beautiful venue for your next conference, meeting, or
celebration. The centre is located just minutes from
downtown, and our Cultural Gathering Space offers a
peaceful refuge from the city bustle and windy streets
of Ottawa.
Our striking open concept Cultural Gathering Space is
perfect for everything from formal sit-down dinners
to stand-up receptions, training sessions, wedding
banquets, and live performances. Theatre style
seating can accommodate a variety of arts and culture
performances, and there are different staging options
and additional spaces to suit any event.
Our social enterprise also offers Indigenous Catering
services featuring contemporary seasonal menus with
cultural flare.
Proceeds from the rental of the event space fund
Wabano’s innovative health and cultural programs. Thank you to
the Board of Directors
for their stewardship!
Pete Gauthier, President
Brian Pelletier
Valorie Whetung, Vice-President
Tooneejoulee Kootoo-Chiarello
John Francis, Secretary-Treasurer
Colleen Whiteduck
Jennifer Francis
Paul Skanks
To reserve Wabano for your next event, please visit
wabano.com. For more information, contact our
hospitality office at 613-748-0657 ext. 275 or at
hospitality@wabano.com.
As Wabano continues to create a place of belonging, we would
also like to thank our over 75 community partners.
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Thank you to our
Generous Funders
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
Canada
Ministry of Health and Long Term Care of Ontario
Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport of Ontario
Champlain Local Health Integration Network
Motivate Canada
City of Ottawa
Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres
Health Nexus
Ontario Trillium Foundation
Heritage Canada
Ottawa Carleton District School Board
Ministry of Children and Youth Services of Ontario
Ministry of Community and Social Services of
Ontario
Public Health Agency of Canada
Service Canada
United Way
Funding for programs and services-2014-2015
13%
77%
78%
Provincial
City
8%
Federal
7%
Other
8%
Total Funding for 2014/2015: $7,109,163.83
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Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health
299 Montreal Road
Ottawa, ON K1L 6B8
Phone: 613-748-0657 | Fax: 613-748-9364
www.wabano.com
Charitable number: 873580690RR0001