Sunday, April 5, 2009

Visit to Golden Lake First Nations: Caitlin

By Caitlin Tolley

April 3rd 2009 Golden Lake First Nations, ON

On April 3rd 2009 I had the opportunity to travel to the Algonquin community of Pikwakinagan. When Karin Kettler, Robert Horton and I arrived in Golden Lake we were warmly welcomed by members of the community. They fed us a wonderful dinner then we proceeded ahead with an ice-breaker which was a game of the human knot. Then we decided to have a round circle and that was when Rob and I began the presentation. We had a great circle discussion followed by an intense game of floor hockey.

I would like to thank the Algonquins of Pikwakinagan for welcoming us into their beautiful community.

Akwesasne Boys & Girls Club

By Ry Moran

April 3 2009 Akwesasne, N.Y

We departed from Ottawa for Akwesasne at 3:00 pm. After a brief delay crossing the border, we in Akwesasne, N.Y.

The visit was excellent and the facilities offered an inspiring range of services and programs for the youth.

The discussion was interesting with Nadine, Thomas and James being present!

I hope the participants found the discussion of value. It was a great experience.

Saturday, April 4, 2009

Akwesasne Boys & Girls Club: Thomas

By Thomas Edwards


April 3, 2009 Akwesasne, N.Y

My visit to Akwesasne was great! As we arrived, we entered the Boys and Girls Club and saw youth participating in various activities. After eating dinner, Ry, James and I spoke to the youth about our stories and where we are in our life. The youth listened very well and had many questions. It was great that the youth had questions regarding our traditions and values because it shows their interest in their own culture and an eagerness to learn more.

James had brought some of his medical tools and the youth were able to look into people's eyes and ears. It was quite the interesting experience. For myself, the trip was even better because I got to meet Aronhiaies Herne, a role model from my year but who I hadn't met before. Although it was our first time meeting face to face, it was like reconnecting with a friend. It was almost like we'd known each other for years!

I had a great time visiting the community. It was my first time visiting there and I look forward to returning some day! The community and the people there were very nice and welcoming and that made the trip so much more enjoyable!

Visit to Golden Lake, First Nations

By Robert Animikii Horton

April 3 2009, Golden Lake First Nations

We (Karin, Caitlyn, and myself) arrived at Golden Lake First Nation from Ottawa on time and met the youth in the gymnasium as well as even coordinators. We had dinner with the group which was followed by introductions with all the youth. All attending youth were very welcoming and comfortable. They created a poster for us that welcomed us to the community.

Caitlyn, Karin and I facilitated introductions with the youth and we spoke about who inspired them. We shared our stories to these very attentive youth.

Our messages were very positive mine was to remind the youth that they are the leaders and chiefs of tomorrow. This was followed by discussions and drawings for prizes and NARMP quizzes and floor hockey :)

Farewells were very warm and we were welcomed back. I greatly enjoyed the visit and was impressed with how attentive youth were--great kids! Everything flowed and was organized well