OUR MISSION is to improve the quality of life for Aboriginal peoples in an urban environment by supporting self-determined activities which encourage equal access to, and participation in, Canadian Society; and which respect and strengthen the increasing emphasis on Aboriginal cultural distinctiveness.
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Membership
 

Membership Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a Friendship Centre?

A Friendship Centre is a not-for-profit urban Aboriginal service delivery infrastructure that provides cultural based Aboriginal programs and services to an urban Aboriginal population.

What is the Friendship Centre Movement?

The Friendship Centre Movement can be defined as the evolution and expansion of Friendship Centres. From their humble beginnings as drop-in centres, today’s Friendship Centres have grown into well established and organized social networks.

Do I have to be Aboriginal?

No, Friendship Centres are a place for cultural appreciation and understanding. Friendship Centres embrace multiculturalism and encourage all peoples to learn and grow together. Friendship Centres organize a variety of programs and service in a culturally appropriate manner, practicing an open-door policy where anyone, regardless of race, religion, income or nationality can access program and services.

How many Friendship Centres are there?

To date, there is 117 Friendship Centres across the country.

My city does not have a Friendship Centre. What is the process to establish a Friendship Centre?

Contact the National Association of Friendship Centres for more information.

How do I become a member of my local Friendship Centre?

Contact your local Friendship Centre to learn more about membership, membership application forms, and membership benefits.

What kind of programs and services do Friendship Centres have to offer?

Friendship Centres offer programming in education and training, employment counseling, health programs, children and youth programs, recreation programs and economic development. Friendship Centres also offer language training, entrepreneurial training, skills development, computer training, work site placements, nutrition programs, healing circles, alcohol and drug counseling, summer camps, day care centres, youth peer counseling, youth drop in centres, organized sports and leagues, wilderness training and facility rentals. Many Centres also have arts and crafts shops and organize pow-wows and other events throughout the year.

Can I volunteer at my local Friendship Centre?

Definitely, Friendship Centres were founded by volunteers, by Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people working together to provide needed services. Friendship Centres are highly dependent on volunteers to provide much needed services. Volunteers play a vital role in the areas of cultural and recreational activities for children and youth which form an essential part of Friendship Centre programming.

Are Friendship Centres more for adults?

There is a strong youth presence within the Friendship Centre Movement. Friendship Centres are strong advocates of Youth participation and value their opinion and voice. To learn more about the mission of the Aboriginal Youth Council, or to contact a youth representative, click on the Aboriginal Youth Council tab.

Can I arrange a tour at my local Friendship Centre?

Absolutely! Call or stop by and ask a staff or volunteer for a tour of the Friendship Centre.
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