The Waseskun Healing Centre is a non-profit, Indigenous-led organization focused on the healing of incarcerated Indigenous men and their successful re-entry into their communities. Last year, a grant from the NIB Trust Fund helped Waseskun Healing Centre and The Barbara Monture Malloch Education Resource Centre (BMMERC) offer courses in operating power tools and light construction equipment, as well as preparatory classes for the high school equivalency test (GED). The program also supported a new library, including computer equipment, empowering residents to improve their career prospects. Read more about the BMMERC here.

The Mary Duncan School in Manitoba founded its seasonal land-based learning program in Sept. 2021 in an effort to decolonize public school education. The “Reclaiming Indigenous Knowledge in Public Schools” program, supported by the NIB Trust Fund, was a six-month endeavor to introduce traditional Northern Cree and Metis teachings to students from grades 7 to 12. Young people had the opportunity to earn high school credits while learning in First Nations, Metis and Inuit studies. Activities include drumming, beading, and ribbon skirt making workshops, and taking part in other land-based activities.

Joy O’Brien is a residential school survivor who, with the support of the NIB Trust Fund and her family is gaining the traditional knowledge of moose hide tanning. Joy is not only a survivor, but also an intergenerational survivor whose goal is to bring hide tanning skills back into her family line and pass along the knowledge to her children and grandchildren.

The Community of Membertou and its Elders recognize the importance of sharing culture and history with all people and believe that this sharing and celebration must come from the community itself. With support from the NIB Trust Fund, the Membertou Heritage Park launched the Kun'tewiktuk: A Celebration of Mi'kmaq Art, Music, and Culture program, an arts program that fosters the growth of the next generation of Mi’kmaw artists.

The scholarships Taylor received from the NIBTF have helped with tuition and eased the stress of the transition from home to university. With the help of the NIB Trust Fund, Taylor was able to stress less about finances and focus more on her studies to reach her goals.