Supporting Youth in the Bunibonibee Cree Community

Photo details: this picture was taken on Oxford Lake in 1989, while paddling through thick smoke.

Dear friends, family, and colleagues,

I’m asking for your kind support to help support the needs of youth living in the Bunibonibee Cree community at Oxford Lake, Manitoba. I visited the community in 1989 while guiding five young men from YMCA camp Menogyn on a canoe trip, where we planned to paddle 400 miles from Norway House to York Factory on Hudson’s Bay. We were challenged and ultimately stopped by forest fires on our route. We found a few days respite and incredible support from members of the Bunibonibee community while we prepared for evacuation and a new route far from the fires.

I had always wanted to do something to give back to the community for that support and kindness. Now, 37 years later, I’m planning to visit them again on a second attempt to paddle to York Factory. I searched around to find a way to host a small fundraiser, and I found it with True North Aid. They already have a relationship with the Bunibonnee community, and I value their approach that is driven by local, community needs and interests. In the coming weeks while I am on the trip, True North Aid will consult with community leaders to determine how we can best support their needs. I have been following Chief Sheila North’s video posts on Facebook, and am aware of some of the many challenges the community faces now. Her voice and spirit has been inspiring to me though, and inspired me to set up this fundraiser. Another inspiration has been reconnecting with a community member who kindly supported my group in 1989. I feel so lucky that I’ll be able to see him again and thank him in person for his kindness 37 years ago.

Please join me in making a contribution to this cause. Thank you!