Posted by John Currie, Exectuive Director Rotary HIP , and Past President Rotary Club of Pickering

Thank you for your interest and support for the HIP / District 7070/7010 Y2Y Engagement event at Camp Kawartha in early October.   The organizing committee met last week and considered feedback and the impact of COVID developments on the plans.   The Y2Y initiative is a solid program that has been well received, however safety is a primary concern. With the recent increase in COVID cases and the uncertainty of the impact on youth going back into classrooms in September, there is potentially considerable risk to youth being placed in camp rooms together overnight. The committee has taken the concerns seriously and is re-engineering and extending the program.     Please Read more.....

The in-person camp will be re-scheduled for the fall of 2022. We are still seeking your help with sponsorship and youth outreach.  Leading up to this date, we will hosting a number of activities with an updated schedule as follows:

SEPTEMBER 28, 2021 – Youth Cultural Safety Education

Participants: Open to Youth Grades 9 – 11 across Canada

Attendance: Limited to 450 participants

Both Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Youth are invited to attend this essential culture education. The program is delivered by effective, qualified and professional First Nations, Métis and Inuit presenters. All presenters have significant experience in reconciliation and Indigenous awareness education. The presenters will provide and speak to First Nations, Métis and Inuit heritage and culture.

 

OCTOBER 9, 2021 – Indigenous Fall Land-based Walk

Location: Live Online

Participants: Open to all youth Grades 9 – 11 across Canada

Join us for an authentic cultural experience that connects you to nature. More information will be provided to those who register.  

 

SPRING 2022 – Indigenous Spring Land-based Walk

Location: TBA (In-person if allowed otherwise online)

Participants: Open to all youth Grades 9 – 11 across Canada

Step out into nature and explore the world through Indigenous perspective. More information will be provided to those who register.  

 

Fall 2022 – In-Person Y2Y Camp

Location: Camp Kawartha (in-person)

Participants: Open to Regional Youth Grades 9 – 11

Attendance: Limited to 50 Youth

Please register early as participation in the pre-events increases the candidates chances of being selected.  

This three day programs will provide participants with traditional Indigenous teachings from Elders and Knowledge Keepers within the Williams Treaty Territory. Youth will learn:

  • Understanding treaties
  • Harvesting local foods & medicines
  • Local Indigenous culture & heritage

Unless otherwise requested, funds received by donors and sponsors will continued to be applied to the program as outlined above.

 

YOUTH RECRUITMENT

We need your assistance to actively seek out youth to participate in this initiative. Please have them submit an application by visiting https://honouringindigenouspeoples.com/reconcili-action

 

If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to District 7070 HIP Coordinator Bill Empey, District 7010 HIP Coordinator Nicole Van-Stone or myself.

 

John Currie (he/him)

Executive Director | Honouring Indigenous Peoples (HIP)