Council Fire Native Cultural Centre Inc

About the Centre

The Council Fire Native Cultural Centre (Council Fire) was incorporated on February 9, 1982 (but was established in 1978) and became a member of the Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres (OFIFC) on October 24, 1982. Its founding directors (members) are: R. Gordon Byce, Margaret MacLeod, Clarence Decaire, Raphael Dokis, Carol Farkas, Larry Leong, Alastaire Paterson, Jacqueline Rosen, Dr. Larry Rosen, and, Lydia Somers.

Since Council Fire's inception, change has been constant - its formative years were accomplished through the commitment by the founding members who saw the need to support young men to attain a better life. Over the following decades the vision that followed, finding a home base and to building a foundation from the very people it served, has been an arduous journey filled with tears of pain and joy. In the midst of change, principles and values were articulated that provided a cultural underpinning sustaining the structures of growth and expansion.

After three decades Council Fire has not only taken its place in the City, but has become a significant team player in the greater Toronto area. An indicator of success is the marked respect afforded to the Centre for the spirit of the work and support to the community. Council Fire is proud to say "it is an organisation that provides a listening ear and caring staff to help people close the gaps that otherwise may have put them at risk of falling through the cracks. This means that when people are searching for help they are not told what to do with their lives but are shown acceptance, love, respect and support. Anyone who works in this environment can be proud of this accomplishment. The future is now! The ability for growth and development has no limitations. We need only to reflect on the foot prints of our past leaders and ensure that our path is consistent, our minds are open and our actions are based on those we serve".

Mandate

To provide counselling, material assistance and other direct services to First Nations people as well encourage and enhance spiritual and personal growth.

Vision

Council Fire is an autonomous, vibrant cultural agency that involves and serves the Indigenous community with confidence for, and commitment to, their well-being.

Mission

• To promote and employ Aboriginal people in the area of culture, education, family, industry and information technology;
• To offer opportunity to Aboriginal people through culturally specific programs;
• To enter into partnerships with likeminded organisations;
• To conduct ongoing constructive assessments with community;
• To support the economy and sustainability of the community;
• To continue to build human, cultural and academic capacity;
• To work with people of the four colors;
• To continue to build on our natural healing relationship with Mother Earth; and
• To promote the celebration of life.

Programs and Services

Akwe:go, Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program, Community Action Program for Children, Community Wellness, Life Long Care, Urban Aboriginal Healthy Living, and,Wasa-Nabin.

Through its programs and services Council Fire provides meals, food bank and clothing services, literacy, training and employment opportunities, housing, counselling, health and social programs and services to youth, young moms, families, seniors and individuals. In addition to these services Council Fire also offers cultural teachings, weddings, naming ceremonies, wakes and funeral services.