Rediscovery of Families Program
Reclaiming the Wisdom of Our Past
Learning the values, beliefs and traditional roles of the family
This program gives families the opportunity to reconnect with each other through learning the values, beliefs and traditional roles of the family. During attendance at camp, families re-learn their roles within the family structure, with guidance and teachings from Elders and support workers.
This includes opportunities to reconnect with the land through retreats for couples, families and women. Traditional activities such as hunting, fishing, picking berries and medicine plants are encouraged. Participants enjoy ceremonies, such as pipe and sweat lodge, and exploring historical sites like the dancing circles.
This program works in partnership with Employment Growth Opportunity (EGOP). Both programs carry out their mandate through the Land Base Department, which guides participants in traditional teachings and activities.
Most people in the Circle of Care or the Removal of Parent Program are required to successfully complete this program before they are reunited with their children.
Goals & Objectives
- To raise awareness of our values, beliefs & traditions and to use them to create better relationships
- To help families identify strengths & issues that have had a negative impact
- To find practical solutions for everyday life
- To reconnect more families with the land as a source of food, medicine & spirituality
- To strengthen a sense of community support
Why do I need this program?
Many people, of all ages and genders, have received support, wisdom and strategies in our program.
The Rediscovery of Families Program may help you if you:
- Experience uncontrollable feelings of sadness, anger or hopelessness
- Feel disconnected from activities that used to bring you joy
- Are abusing a substance or indulging in a bad habit (drugs, alcohol, food, sex)
- Have experienced trauma such as death, job loss, crime, break up
- Are often physically run down or experiencing headaches or stomach aches
- Have friends and family telling you they are worried about you
How does it work?
The Rediscovery of Families Program is held at traditional campsites near Nelson House, and facilitated by counsellors and treatment support providers. The RDF Program is usually several weeks long, depending on the parent’s progress. Children and spouses usually join the individual towards the end of the program.
We believe the path to a healthy future is found in the traditions of our past. Participants reconnect with the land through activities such as:
- Setting nets, fishing and cleaning fish
- Studying and picking medicinal plants & berries
- Hunting
- Sweat lodges
- Pipe ceremonies
- Exploration of historical sites such as dancing circles
Taking part in these healing activities in a neutral environment, away from your daily stresses and responsibilities, can create a new perspective. Working with trained counsellors helps you to process difficult thoughts and feelings, and sharing your worries with others helps you to realize that you are not alone.
What are the benefits of this program?
The RDF Program will make you a better parent. It can also help you to become a better person, friend, neighbour, employee, boss and Citizen!
You’ll also enjoy:
- Higher self-esteem
- Happier family time
- Positive vision for the future
- Clear understanding of who you are and what you need
- Reconnection to the land as a source of food, medicine & spirituality
- Raised awareness of our traditional values, belief and culture
- Better relationships and connection with those around you
- Strategies for dealing with stress, frustration, anger
- Support from RDF counsellors & Circle of Care staff
This program currently operates in Nelson House. If you are in a different community, contact your local sub-office to ask about similar opportunities.