Akwe:go and Wasa-Nabin
Akwe:go is a Mohawk word meaning "everybody" or "all of us". It's the name of a unique program for Aboriginal children ages 7 to 12.
Wasa-Nabin means "to look forward, to look beyond" in Ojibway. It's the name of a new program for Aboriginal youth ages 12 to 18.
These programs are available through Indian Friendship Centres in Ontario. The Ministry of Children and Youth Services provides funding to the Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres to provide these programs.
Akwe:go and Wasa-Nabin promote healthy development in ways that respect cultural backgrounds and traditions. The programs are designed to meet the unique needs of each community. They provide:
- a personalized plan of action for each child and youth
- teachings by elders, as well as other culturally relevant programs
- recreational and after-school programs, where youth can get peer support and help with homework
- health resources
- referrals to community resources and agencies
- public awareness and community outreach through events and local agencies.
