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.
Elders Ministry at Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples
To this day, the intergenerational trauma caused by the Residential School System has left many Indigenous people in need of healing and reconciliation. At Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples in Edmonton, Alberta, an Elders Ministry plays an important role in offering spiritual guidance and counseling to those in need
A healing pavilion for the Our Lady of Mercy Parish
As part of their commitment to the Enoch Cree Nation and the Truth and Reconciliation of Canada, Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Edmonton, Alberta, is devoted to restoring a foundation of shared faith and tradition with Indigenous community members.
The Parish is planning to build a healing pavilion, featuring aisles and a platform, and surrounded by traditional gardens.
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.
Cultural Reawakening at Peepaw Plains — “the place where life begins”
In the summer of 2023, the Kici-Anishnabek Kananakachiwewat Community Services Cooperative (Cote First Nations Elders' Council) of eastern Saskatchewan hosted the second annual Youth Culture Camp, about 100 km north of the Cote First Nation, on the aptly-named Peepaw Plains — elders say it means “the place where life begins.”
Transforming Parenting: Indigenous Family Wellness at Haven Family Connections
The injustices of the past have left a dark legacy of intergenerational trauma and loss of identity and opportunity for Indigenous families. Many face systemic barriers, poverty, and disadvantage, resulting in a disproportionate number of child apprehensions. Western-focused parenting courses often fail to provide the confidence and inspiration needed by at-risk parents, many of whom grew up in foster care without receiving their cultural teachings.
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.
