Right to Play Boosts First Nations Presence with Help from Ontario Government

THUNDER BAY – “We have seen positive results across our northern First Nation communities because of our partnership with Right To Play and Ontario. I am thrilled that Nishnawbe Aski Nation is involved with this program as it continues to expand across 39 First Nation communities in Ontario, a good portion of them located within NAN Territory. The Promoting Life-skills in Aboriginal Youth program helps develop leadership skills and creates confidence in our young people which contributes to the success and health of our communities and Canada as a whole,” enthused Grand Chief Stan Beardy, Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN).

Ontario is helping more than 1,000 Aboriginal children and youth develop leadership skills to strengthen our future workforce, with support from partners. The Promoting Life-skills in Aboriginal Youth (PLAY) program has expanded to 39 First Nation communities across the province. PLAY is designed to develop young leaders within the community and empower them to create positive change.

In June 2010, Right To Play, with funding from the Ontario Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs and other funding partners, initiated the Promoting Life-skills in Aboriginal Youth (PLAY) Program in partnership with Moose Cree First Nation and Sandy Lake First Nation. The objective of the PLAY Program is to build on the strengths of Aboriginal youth and their communities, while supporting the value of culture and identity.

The program has created more than 30 full-time jobs for community mentors who work with Aboriginal youth to take part in training workshops, plan community events and participate in sports. Fifty jobs have also been created for Aboriginal youth to work with community mentors to deliver programs.

“The PLAY program has been embraced by our partners and is delivering meaningful skills and positive experiences to its participants and their communities. We are proud of what has been accomplished to date and optimistic for the future. PLAY inspires change,” commented Robert Witchel, National Director, Canada, Right To Play.

You can help support Right to Play click www.moseteamupfoundation.org and vote for Right to Play.