IRF Project Collections
Projects Supported by the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund
(New projects added every month)
The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund supports initiatives that address the historical trauma, intergenerational impacts and systemic injustices faced by Indigenous people.
Grants are provided for programs and projects that promote emotional, mental and physical healing for communities and families, ultimately contributing to a path of reconciliation and restoration of
well-being.
Expanding the Circle of Courage at M.E. LaZerte High School
M.E. LaZerte High School in Edmonton, Alberta is an educational hub for nearly 9,000 students from 15 elementary and junior high schools. The student population represents over 80 cultural backgrounds and 70 languages, with many students identifying as First Nation, Métis, or Inuit, emphasizing the rich diversity that shapes the school's community.
Unearthing Truth: Locating Unmarked Graves
For over a century, Indigenous children endured the traumatic experience of Indian Residential Schools in Canada, and the haunting legacy continues with the search for those who never returned home. Many Indigenous Nations are actively seeking their lost children, employing archaeological remote sensing and geophysics to locate potential burial sites. However, limited support and resources hinder these crucial efforts.
Preserving and revitalizing Indigenous cultures and languages allows Indigenous communities to reconnect with their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Through grants provided for language revitalization programs, traditional arts and crafts or cultural education initiatives, Indigenous traditions and identities are celebrated and can be passed down to future generations.
pimācihtātān nēhiyawēwin: “Keeping Our Language Alive” Conference
The pimācihtātān nēhiyawēwin: “Keeping Our Language Alive” Conference took place in May 2023 at Dakota Dunes Resort in Saskatchewan. The event focused on lessons learned from current Indigenous language strategies and exploring innovative approaches for the future, uniting grassroots speakers, aspiring language advocates and allies of Indigenous people.
Providing the Seat to Set the Cultural Wheels in Motion
Saskatoon Tribal Council's Wellness Centre in Saskatoon provides services for community members to engage in cultural revitalization and traditional teachings, as well as support services for mental health, addiction counseling and suicide prevention.
Education and community building are key drivers of reconciliation efforts. Funds provided for educational programs, workshops and community-building activities can help bridge knowledge gaps, strengthen ties between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people and promote a deeper understanding of Indigenous history, experiences and knowledge.
Grants are available to support programs, gatherings and events that facilitate the reconnection with and celebration of Indigenous spirituality and cultural practices.
These initiatives are an opportunity to foster awareness and appreciation of Indigenous worldviews, values and spiritual beliefs and contribute to a more inclusive society where Indigenous voices and traditions are honored and respected.
