The goal of the program is to provide urban Indigenous children with support, tools and healthy activities which will build upon and foster their inherent ability to make healthy choices.
There are five program objectives. These include:
The Akwe:go Program identifies children’s needs via an intake, needs analysis and client action plan process. If they become a client, they are offered support from the Akwe:go Program Coordinator during the time they receive service. Akwe:go strives to involve the parent/caregiver at the onset of receiving services, as parents must be present for an Intake, agree to and sign the client action plan with their child, and support the child by participating in and being a part of the child’s plan through the development and implementation of immediate, short and long term goals. Every three month, the Akwe:go Program Coordinator will revisit the clients action plan and determine the progress the child has made and where additional services are required.
As mentioned previously, the program is to provide support and guidance within a cultural framework for children ages 7 – 12 that are at risk for specific negative behaviours and outcomes as a result of their circumstances in life. It will incorporate traditional cultural teachings and values to encourage healthy lifestyle choices. It is hoped that children involved in the program will enhance their skills, knowledge, attitudes and values and will demonstrate positive personal choices and develop awareness of the consequences of negative behaviours. The design of this program is based on one fundamental principle: to improved the quality of life of Urban Indigenous children through the delivery of culturally appropriate activities and services.
At-Risk Urban Indigenous Children ages 7 – 12.
Terri-Lynn Charlebois
Akwe:go Coordinator
Odawa Native Friendship Centre
815 St. Laurent Blvd. Ottawa, ON K1K 3A7
(T) 613-722-3811 ext. 243 (F) 613-722-4667
Email: tcharlebois@odawa.on.ca