Odawa Native Friendship Centre

The Odawa Native Friendship Centre is a Canadian nonprofit organisation dedicated to serving the Indigenous community in Ottawa and its surrounding areas. With a history spanning over 50 years, the centre has been a cornerstone in providing diverse programs and services aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Indigenous peoples.

Mission and Values

The mission of the Odawa Native Friendship Centre is to improve the well-being of Indigenous individuals by fostering a tradition of community, self-help, and development. It emphasizes maintaining cultural practices and traditional teachings, passed down from elders, as essential components of its offerings.

Programs

The centre offers a wide range of programs tailored to different age groups and needs:

• Children's Programs: Specific support is provided for urban Indigenous children aged 7-12 who are at risk, ensuring they receive comprehensive care and support.

• Teens/Adults Programs:

  • Alternative Secondary School Program: This program assists adolescents who struggle within the mainstream education system or have been out of school, helping them transition back into formal education.
  • Kizhaay Program: Focuses on males aged 13 and above.
  • Wasa-Nabin Program: Offers support and guidance to urban Indigenous youth between the ages of 13 and 18, promoting healthy choices within a cultural framework.

• Family Support: The centre provides family support programs for children aged 0-6, including daycare services. Additionally, the Life Long Care program supports chronically ill, cognitively impaired, physically disabled, frail, and elderly Indigenous individuals, ensuring they have access to transportation, socialization, service navigation, advocacy, and emotional and spiritual support.

• Community Events: The centre hosts Community Nights, which are open to registered members and aim to strengthen community bonds and enhance cultural engagement.

Impact and Partnerships

The Odawa Native Friendship Centre works in partnership with various frontline workers, outreach workers, housing specialists, visiting nurses, elders, trainers, and attendants to deliver comprehensive services. The centre is recognized for its role in addressing specific community needs, making it a thriving and resilient part of the Indigenous community in Ottawa.