Traditional Harvesting and Mentorship Program

Two years ago, the Respecting the Harvest Program was born with the goal of rebuilding connections between Indigenous Youth and their ancestors' traditional harvesting practices on the land. By way of colonial systems and policies, Indigenous peoples have experienced a loss of connection to land, culture, traditional practices, teachings, and kinship ties. Through this program, Youth learn the sacred teachings of snuw’uy’ulh – such as interconnectedeness or Xwunuts’amaat uw’ muqwstem - as they reconnect to the land, animals, and their ancestors’ way of life. They also learn practical skills such as fishing, shooting, and processing animals for food and regalia.

The program was created by Kw’umut Lelum Child and Family Services, and our Foundation became a supporting partner after the first year, with help from a generous gift from the The Lake Family’s All One Fund. Building on the experiences of the first year, a mentorship component was added so that traditional knowledge keepers could learn how to deliver the program and work with more Youth in their communities, modifying the name to the Traditional Harvesting and Mentorship Program. One of the most powerful parts of the program is the hunting trip, where the Youth use their new skills, guided by the knowledge keepers, to harvest and prepare traditional foods for Elders and community members.

Frankie Shaw, the Culture and Canoe Life Coordinator and former child in care at Kw’umut Lelum Child and Family Services, has been participating in the program and is now mentoring other youth. “I did not grow up hunting or harvesting, so to have an opportunity to learn these important traditional skills truly does mean a lot to me.”

Thanks to the Vancouver Foundation’s Thriving Indigenous Systems Fund, we can continue to support this program for the next three years. We are grateful for their generous contribution and their dedication to Indigenous communities and cultures.