Ne'Chee Friendship Centre

About the Centre

Ne-Chee is Ojibway for "a close friend or brother".

The Ne-Chee Friendship Centre (NFC) is one of the "original six" Friendship Centres in Ontario, founded in 1975 and incorporated on May 31, 1976. NFC is also a founding member of the Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres (OFIFC) which was incorporated in 1971. Its founding directors are: Sam Copenace Sr. (deceased), Joe Morrison, Kitty Everson, Steve Skead, Christine Gordon, Len Hakenson, and Derick Pitawanakwat.

In 1975, there was a growing need in Kenora to assist Native people as they migrated into the urban environment. In response to community needs, a number of volunteers were instrumental in organising practical details for a Friendship Centre, drafting a constitution, and obtaining incorporation papers.

In 1977, advocacy begun and the first Core proposal was submitted to the Migrating Native People's Program under the Secretary of State for funding from April 1, 1978 to March 31, 1979. An Executive Director, a Secretary and a Juvenile Diversion Worker (Li'l Beavers Coordinator) were hired.

In 1978, the NFC moved to 41 Matheson Street South. The Kenora Native Women's Association had an office in the building as well as their craft shop. The Centre began to make its presence known to the community. The majority of people accessing the Centre's programs and services came from within the urban area and from surrounding communities.

In 1981, the NFC purchased a building on 152 Main Street South. As the public became more aware of the Centre, the volume of people increased so quickly that more space was needed to provide the needed services.

In 1994, the NFC moved to its present location and a larger building at 1301 Railway Street to accommodate the growing number of programs.

The NFC is now over 35 years old and continues to grow. The Centre salutes those individuals who contributed their support and time for making the Centre for what it is today.

Mission

The NFC promotes education and cultural advancement of Indian people. The NFC strives to provide support to local, provincial and national Native people's organisation.

Programs and Services

Akwe:go, Alternative Secondary School, Apatisiwin, Community Action Program for Children, Community Career Development, Community Justice, Community Wellness, Criminal Courtwork, Family Courtwork, Healthy Babies Healthy Children, Life Long Care, Urban Aboriginal Healthy Living, and Wasa-Nabin.