Nimkee Nupigawagan Healing Centre Inc.
Business Registration Number: 895215325RR0001

Nimkee Nupigawagan Healing Centre Inc. is a Canadian nonprofit residential treatment organization focused on culturally grounded care for First Nations and Inuit youth. Established in 1997, it operates as part of the National Youth Solvent Abuse Program funded by Health Canada’s First Nations and Inuit Health Branch.

History and Governance

The organization was founded to address solvent and substance misuse among Indigenous youth through a culturally centered approach. It is governed by a Board of Directors representing seven First Nations communities in Southwestern Ontario, alongside an Elder’s seat, a youth representative, and appointed members[4].

Programs and Approach

The center provides gender-specific residential programs for youth aged 12–17 and a cohort for those aged 18–25[1][2]. Treatment spans 10–12 weeks for younger participants and four months for the 12–17 age group, integrating Indigenous healing practices with therapeutic models such as reality choice theory and emotional intelligence[1][4]. Programming emphasizes the Four Quadrants of holistic wellness—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—to align with traditional teachings[1][4].

Accreditation and Recognition

Nimkee Nupigawagan Healing Centre holds accreditation from the Canadian Accreditation Council under standards for Aboriginal and Intensive Treatment programs[1]. It also maintains licensing under Ontario’s Child and Youth Services Act and contributes to global data collection on inhalant abuse, a unique aspect of its research profile[4].

Data and Impact

The organization systematically tracks client outcomes and substance use patterns, providing rare longitudinal insights into solvent abuse among Indigenous youth[4]. Its human resource management and treatment efficacy have been cited as benchmarks for similar programs[4].

Note: "Nimkee Memorial Wellness Center" (NMWC) referenced elsewhere is a distinct entity accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC)[5].