Purpose of Gitpo
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Gitpo Spirit Lodge is a holistic wellness center focused on the well-being of the people of Eel Ground First Nation and broader communities.
Best practices for Indigenous wellness involve a range of services from mainstream healthcare to traditional practices and medicines, all under community leadership and control. Spirit Lodge provides a safe environment supporting traditional practices to promote mental, physical, and spiritual wellness. Wellness is the determinant of inclusion and contribution to the quality of life for the individual and for the community at large. Wellness supports self-determination and economic prosperity.
Vision
“We must look at Canada as a village and contribute as much as we can to be leaders within our communities. Through friendship gatherings, the many cultures that call this land home celebrate each other. This collective spirit of peace and friendship reminds us that, when the drums begin to beat, we all march together.” - Chief Roger Augustine
About Gitpo
Gitpo Spirit Lodge is a concept by Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Regional Chief Roger Augustine.
The plan is to develop a national wellness facility with locations serving the Atlantic, Western and Pacific regions. Many First Nations people have lived with various issues that affect their ability to function within their communities. The goal of Gitpo is to help our people get the help and support they need to become respected leaders and elders of the community. “Gitpo” is the Mi’kmaq word for Eagle. The Eagle is the symbol of one of the seven traditional teachings of the Mi'kmaq people.
Helping communities expand economic opportunity, learn new skills, and address areas of critical need like mental health and education.
Working together to create meaningful learning, skills development, and employment opportunities.
Collaboration ensures learners are supported and successful throughout their learning journey.
Timelines
We had the opportunity to visit Gitpo Spirit Lodge on several occasions on Natoaganeg (Eel Ground) First Nation located in New Brunswick. During our visits, we were welcomed with open arms, shared meals together, drummed together and had important discussions about our lives, families, traditions and collaborating on future projects - together.
There are no timelines when surrounded by friends. We will continue to support Gitpo Spirit Lodge, their communities, and the friends that we make together.
The focus of Gitpo is to offer a sense of peer support between different generations, youth to elders, in each activity. The lodge hosts a cultural group that teaches Mi’kmaq singing and drumming, led by an elder who also teaches the language during sessions. Non-Indigenous people from surrounding communities are also welcomed to come and participate.
Partial funding provided by:
