AIAI ATTENDS INFORMATIONAL MEETING FOR RIGHT TO PLAY
Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, Kathleen Wynne, and Larry Tanenbaum of the Lawrence and Judith Tenenbaum Family Foundation extended an invitation to an important information meeting held in Toronto on February 9, 2012. Both Right To Play Canada, a non-governmental organization, and the Province of Ontario are seeking potential new partners from corporate Canada to assist in fundraising for the Promoting Life-skills in Aboriginal Youth (PLAY) program that works specifically with First Nation communities.
This international organization has been in existence for approximately 12 years. Its mission is to improve the lives of children in some of the most disadvantaged areas of the world by using the power of sport and play for development, health and peace.
PLAY was introduced to First Nations communities approximately 2 years ago. This program provides support for youth ages 4 to 29 by assisting in designing a program that builds on successes and fills in gaps. Every community is invited to apply for this year round program. A Band Council Resolution (BCR) is required from Council, plus 50% contribution to salary for the Community Mentor; in-kind contribution of office space and accommodations for Program Coordination for visits to communities. Right To Play works with Chiefs of Ontario in selecting successful applications. Council is the employer.
Two Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians Member Nations are already utilizing the program; Oneida Nation of the Thames and the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte.
Candace Wilde, a community mentor from the Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point said the PLAY program was, "a bridge to building relationship in the community" and "the Youth will bring the community back together again."
Grand Chief Denise Stonefish offered the following statement in regards to the PLAY program. "Any type of youth programs and/or initiatives that promotes life-skills, builds both confidence and leadership skills, and motivates youth to continue with their education has my support. I know from personal experience that the combination of both sports and education builds confidence and self-esteem. With this life-skill foundation, youth will be able to overcome barriers and challenges so that they can achieve their desired goals and aspirations. Let’s continue to PLAY.”
To find out more information about this program, please visit www.righttoplay.com/PLAYProgram.
