Canada Bridges is embarking on a new chapter! Facing funding challenges and a growing need for culturally relevant programs within the community, we're transitioning to an Indigenous-led model and deepening our community collaborations. Learn more about our vision for the future and how you can support our vital work.
Oki níkso’kowaiksi,
As the new Executive Director for Canada Bridges, I hold deep respect for our shared journey of supporting BIPOC youth as they step into their roles as changemakers, creating a self-determined future for themselves and for their community. Today, I share an honest message about the challenges on our path and the journey we are on now.
For many years, Canada Bridges has relied on the generosity of one main funder. We knew this was a financial risk and took steps to maximize capacity to seek out additional funding. We were informed of the change in this funder's giving priorities early in 2024. While we have continued to seek other sources of support, despite our best efforts, we haven't been able to bring in enough resources to keep doing everything we were before.
This has brought us to a place of hard decisions, including reducing to a smaller team, and transitioning myself to a volunteer Executive Director role to ensure we can meet our commitments to community and to our funders. It was truly difficult to say goodbye to valued team members, especially those who have walked alongside Canada Bridges for so long and built strong bonds with our youth and partners, especially with the co-designing and co-learning nature of our work. We are thankful for their dedication and tremendous impact they have made.
Although I've only been with the organization for a year and a half, I am truly amazed at the work that has been done over the years. The positive changes we have witnessed in the lives of young people are powerful and a big reason why I remain committed to our mission and vision during this turbulent time.
Looking Ahead
We're navigating a time of transition and exploring new paths to sustain our vital work. This includes seeking new funding opportunities and deepening our collaboration with community partners. Decolonization is not just a goal, but an ongoing journey that will transform every aspect of our organization. As Executive Director, I’m committed to guiding our organization towards becoming an Indigenous-led organization, where Indigenous voices and knowledge systems guide our decision-making, programs, and how we show up in our partnerships with youth-serving organizations.
My own experiences have deeply shaped this commitment. Growing up on the reserve and dedicating my twenties to Indigenous youth leadership, I learned the power of working across cultures. I didn't get to where I am today by staying within a single community; it was through listening, learning, and collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds that I gained the skills to navigate our multicultural society.
We cherish our existing partnerships with diverse youth-serving organizations across Treaty 7 and are dedicated to deepening these relationships. At the same time, we are eager to connect with new partners who share our passion for empowering youth. By bringing together a diverse network of collaborators, we can share resources, knowledge, and unique strengths, ultimately benefiting all involved and enriching the lives of young people across our communities. We are committed to fostering a collaborative ecosystem where the individual needs and aspirations of all youth, including Indigenous youth, are honored and supported. This commitment will guide our ongoing efforts to secure the resources necessary to sustain this vital work.
Here are ways you can support
As we're navigating forward, your donations will be vital in helping us deliver impactful programs, build stronger communities, and crucially, listen to community members to help refine our approach and ensure we are truly honoring the spirit of this Indigenous-led journey.
Board Donation Campaign
Our Board of Directors stepped up with an incredible $11,100 donation! And they've challenged Calgarians to match it. Can you help us reach our monthly goal of $2,775? Every dollar makes a difference! I will post updates on our social media every other week. Go here to donate: https://www.canadabridges.com/get-involved/donate
Silent Auction
Want to support Canada Bridges and take home a unique piece of art? Talented young artist and board member Brittany Ayoungman has generously donated one of her creations for a special auction! Proceeds will go to supporting our Unveiled Youth Potential programs. See the artwork and place your bids here: https://canadabridges-my.sharepoint.com/:x:/p/spiritriver/EQ21fhnVbUFJtH0MPgjpg1QBZWKglchdQ79ixucnGm1N6Q
Closing Thoughts
In my short time with the organization, I am quite taken with the story and work of Canada Bridges. I have learned a lot from this experience, and I'm honoured to be responsible for finding a purposeful direction for such an impactful organization. I sincerely hope we can move forward, and so I ask you to reach out to your networks, tell them about the work Canada Bridges does, and why it's worth investing in. If you need support in doing that or want to throw me some advice or a lead, please feel free to each out to me at spiritriver@canadabridges.com
Happy New Year, friends! I hope for a bright and prosperous year for all of us.
Sincerely,
Spirit River L. Striped Wolf (He/Him, They/Them)
Makóyomaahkaa (Enduring Running Wolf)
Executive Director