Elder Nina in front of a star blanket
Elders and Cultural Programs

Our Circle is Strong Elders/Cultural Program

Our Circle is Strong is a vital cultural pathway for individuals, families, and communities to keep spirits, hearts, and minds healthy and strong. The program aims to improve participants’ holistic wellness and develop positive individual and collective identities through a connection to Indigenous culture.

The impacts of colonization have left many with a negative or absent connection to their Indigenous identity, community, and culture. The cultural programming at VAHS acknowledges the necessity of culture in supporting resilience and the healing journey.

The primary goal of this program is to directly address cultural identity, as it underlies the social determinants of health, with a focus on improving resilience.

The Elders and Knowledge Keepers in this program provide support and guidance, including but not restricted to:

  • access to health care providers
  • therapeutic listening
  • holistic wellness teachings
  • advocacy
  • workshops
  • seasonal ceremonies
  • smudging and brushing
  • feasts
  • prayers
  • songs and drumming
  • traditional medicines

Click here to view our current cultural workshop schedule.

The program also offers one-to-one and group counselling for up to 60 minutes per scheduled session. To book an appointment with an Elder or Knowledge Keeper, please use the contact information on this page. 

Contact us

449 East Hastings Street
Vancouver, BC V6A 1P5

 

Your team for this program