We thoroughly enjoyed hosting youth and parents from Curve Lake First Nation and Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre this summer. Thanks to a 2019 Vital Communities grant from the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough to our community partner, Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre, we offered each a day of self-discovery and community-building.
Our time together was an invitation to connect with mind, body, spirit and emotions, while strengthening relations with self, community and the land. Expressive arts activities explored community connections and was an invitation to notice how we create connections with one another.
Herd members Sebastian, Mel, Prinz Harry, Blue and Misty supported the day. We explored themes including healthy boundaries, body language, energy, emotions, and team work. We also became acquainted with our natural leadership skills. As one participant shared: “It’s very helpful for people with anxiety to learn about body language.”
Katie McKeiver, social worker with Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre, noted: “This practice of self-advocacy increases the resilience of the whole community as well as it’s individual members.”
The Vital Community Fund, launched in February, 2017 by Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough, is a community resource to support the people, ideas, and activities that build community vitality in the Peterborough area. Among the 10 things to do to build Vital Community, according to the Foundation, is doing the work of reconciliation, building a safe and inclusive community, and improving access to health and wellness. The Mane Intent hosted a Vital Conversation in 2017 as part of CFGP’s Vital Signs initiative. Vital Conversations brought together more than 700 people in the Peterborough area to talk about tough decisions we’re facing and hopes we have for the future of Peterborough.
About the Author: Jennifer Garland is the Owner/Program Director of The Mane Intent, offering Health and Wellness Workshops and Individual and Team Effectiveness Coaching. Jennifer’s intent is to bring horses, donkeys and humans together to explore new possibilities, getting you out of your comfort zone and giving clarity of voice to your leader within.
Book your experience today: 705-295-6618
