Leadership and Resiliency Program

The Secwepemc Cultural Education Society is pleased to announce a five year funding contribution award by the National Crime Prevention Center (NCPC), sponsored by the Federal Department of Public Safety. Monies from the NCPC will be used to implement a Leadership and Resiliency Program (LRP) at Four Directions School located in north Kamloops. This innovative program will provide both in school and after school services to Aboriginal students attending Four Directions. The purpose of the LRP is to enhance youths internal strengths and resiliency while minimizing involvement in substance use, violence and other unhealthy choices and behaviours. The LRP requires a partnership between a high school and an appropriate service agency.

Participants will attend weekly in school resiliency groups led by trained staff throughout the course of the program. Additional components include in and after school service learning activities and recreational activities. Program results from other locations demonstrate reduction in school suspensions, reduction in juvenile arrests, increase in school attendance and increased high school graduation rates.

It is the intent of this program to nurture trusting relationships between leaders, youth and families, while reaffirming to youth that their community cares. It has been expressed by many in our community that there is a strong need to reacquaint Aboriginal youth with their culture and allow them to form an identity which will embrace the past, while allowing new doors to be opened to the future. Such a vision will be accomplished by promoting a healthy learning experience with the assistance of our various community partners. Our collective goal is to make a difference.

For further information, please contact the Secwepemc Cultural Education Society at 778-471-5789.