N'Swakamok Native Friendship Centre facts for kids
The N'Swakamok Native Friendship Centre is a special place that helps Indigenous people who are moving to or already living in Greater Sudbury, Ontario. The name "N'Swakamok" comes from the Ojibway language and means 'where the three roads meet'. This Centre creates and runs programs and activities that support the social, cultural, and fun needs of the Indigenous community in Sudbury.
How It Started
The Friendship Centre first opened its doors in 1967. It was started by a group called the Nickel Belt Indian Club. People from this club helped Indigenous community members with things like court issues and finding help.
In 1972, the Centre became officially recognized as the Indian Eskimo Friendship Centre. A special committee of 11 people then hired four staff members: a Director, a Secretary, a Program Director, and a trainee. The Centre moved a few times to get more space. It started on Ignatius Street, then moved to Douglas Street, and later to Larch Street. Today, the N'Swakamok Native Friendship Centre is located at 110 Elm Street in Downtown Sudbury.
Over the last 10 years, the Centre has focused on helping the community grow and develop. In 1983, a committee from the Centre started raising money and planning to buy land. By 1986, they bought 64 acres (about 259,000 square meters) of land just outside Sudbury. This land helps the community connect with their culture and learn more about their heritage.
What the Centre Does
The N'Swakamok Native Friendship Centre has important goals:
- To create a place where Indigenous and non-Indigenous people can meet and understand each other better through shared activities.
- To help Indigenous people express themselves and become leaders. They do this by offering programs and services that help people improve their lives and economic situation.
- To encourage and help study the needs of Indigenous people and plan services with them, working with both public and private groups.
The Centre is guided by a Board of Directors. These directors are chosen by the community at yearly public meetings. Becoming a member is easy and affordable: it costs $1.00 for students, $2.00 for adults, and $3.00 for families.
The Friendship Centre also works closely with legal and social services. This helps them create programs that truly fit the community's needs and communication styles.
Programs and Services
The N'Swakamok Native Friendship Centre has grown a lot in its knowledge, skills, and the space it uses. It now has 28 staff members and offers 14 different helpful programs. These programs include:
- An Aboriginal Courtwork Program, which helps people understand and navigate the legal system.
- A Literacy Program, to help people improve their reading and writing skills.
- An Employment Program, to help people find jobs and develop career skills.
- An Aboriginal Family Support Program, which offers help and resources to families.
- A Community Support Program, providing general support to community members.
