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[ parents ] how to get on the floor with their kids , play with them , read to them – how to interact . Not only that but just giving them a space to hang out ,” Tanya says .
It is important for residents living in thriving communities , such as ours , to work together and share culture and ideas , as opposed to putting people in boxes , or stereotyping . “ People don ’ t want to be targeted . This is their space ,” Tanya says , and mentions that while
of belonging , and we just offer coffee . If all they want is to come in and connect and engage , they can just come in for a comfortable , friendly environment , just to support them in all aspects of what they ’ re looking for and get them started . Whatever community organizations we can connect [ people ] with . It ’ s really a community-based organization . It ’ s open to everyone .”
As with many not-for-profit organizations , fundraising
The path to reconciliation will be a long and difficult one , but only through creating and cultivating these community relationships , empowering children and families , and connecting with one another , will we see positive change in society and equal opportunities for all generations to come .
the majority of people coming through the doors at Opokaa ’ sin are FNMI , many new Canadians have used the services , as well as non-indigenous families , mixedrace families , persons with disabilities , children and youth in foster care , and same-sex parents . Criteria are open , and geared at connection : “ If I could describe Opokaa ’ sin in a few words it ’ s ‘ Building resiliency and creating connections ,’” she says . “[ Opokaa ’ sin ] is open to the public , but it is focused with an indigenous perspective .” And even if it is not offered as a formal program , Tanya and the staff and volunteers at Opokaa ’ sin will find a way to provide the service , mentioning that sometimes parents , or siblings , need to make school lunches or breakfast in the morning , and have used the kitchen at the centre to do just that .
Yolande feels the same way about Sik-Ooh-Kotoki : “ Sometimes people just want to come in and feel a sense is always a challenge for the staff at Sik-Ooh-Kotoki and Opokaa ’ sin . Every year , both organizations see an increase in the numbers of people who need access to their services , and with a limit in government funding , it can be difficult to make ends meet especially when there is a need to start expanding programs on top of maintaining facility operations . This year , Tanya hopes to increase the number of spots available in Opokaa ’ sin programming , potentially opening a second child care facility . Currently , she is raising money to repair a leaky roof . “ We need volunteers all the time ,” Tanya indicates . “ We are continually fundraising . If you want to make a donation , you can even choose where you would like your money to go ! We also have a need on the board of directors .”
Similarly , Yolande ’ s goal is to broaden the range of services and programs offered through Sik-Ooh-Kotoki even further . With the organization ’ s 50th anniversary
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