THUNDER BAY — A new program aimed at increasing access to safe, trauma-informed wellness supports, rooted in Indigenous knowledge and traditions launched this week in the city.
Kiikenomaga Kikenjigewen Employment and Training Services announcement the start of its Mino-Ayaawin Maamawi (leading in health and wellness together) program on Wednesday.
Participants will engage in a variety of holistic practices that not only promote health but also integrate essential life skills training. The curriculum includes mindfulness practices, neuro-decolonization, positive affirmations, journalling, yoga, and guidance on healthy eating — all grounded in Indigenous teachings.
The two-year program was made possible through $392,800 in funding from TD Bank Group. This support comes as part of TD’s Ready Commitment, particularly under its Better Health – Innovative Solutions focus area, which aims to foster greater health outcomes in communities across Canada.
David Neegan, Executive Director of KKETS noted that wellness and readiness for employment go hand in hand:
“In order to have a true economic impact for our First Nations people, we need individuals who are well enough to take advantage of employment opportunities. That’s where our focus lies, in helping people become healthy enough, through mindfulness and cultural support, to succeed in those roles.”
Neegan, emphasized that the funding supports a broader vision for wellness and education in First Nations communities.
“The outlook is very promising. The more individuals we get through our program, the more we can help our First Nations,” remarked Neegan. “With our adult education program, we're currently targeting 40 to 50 individuals, but we’re looking to expand that to 120 participants in the second phase of our pilot, and even further beyond that.”
The development and effectiveness of the program have been supported by research led by Anita Vaillancourt, an assistant professor in the School of Social Work at Lakehead University. Vaillancourt conducted a survey evaluating the impact of the first phase of the pilot program, which took place two years ago. She interviewed 43 of the 60 participating KKETS students, and the results were overwhelmingly positive: 98% said the program was beneficial, 72% felt more motivated to apply for jobs, 70% reported increased confidence in job applications, and another 72% said they felt more prepared for the workforce. Overall, roughly 90% of participants showed improvement. Those results are helping shape the expansion and refinement of the initiative moving forward.
These results are now informing the expansion and refinement of the initiative. As Vaillancourt explained, “People reported being better able to control their reactions to stressors and stressful events. Participants also noted reductions in deflecting personal frustrations, a greater ability to respond to disagreements in the workplace, and improved relationships with family and friends, as well as with bosses and co-workers.”
“We’re thrilled to present a cheque to KKETS for $392,800 for one of their incredibly important initiatives,” said Allison Nunes, District Vice President for TD. “It was fantastic to hear about the impact this program will have. We recognize that there is still much work to be done on our collective journey toward truth and reconciliation. That’s why we are proud to support community-led initiatives that are by and for Indigenous communities.”
The Mino-Ayaawin Maamawi program marks an advancement in promoting wellness and employment readiness within First Nations communities. With ongoing support from partners like TD Bank Group, the initiative will continue to empower individuals and foster a healthier future for the community.
KKETS provides education, training and employment sevices for the the Matawa communities of Aroland, Constance Lake, Eabametoong, Ginoogaming, Marten Falls, Neskantaga, Nibinamik, Webequie and Long Lake #58 First Nations.
