For over 50 years, The North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre (NBIFC) has been a place where Indigenous and non-Indigenous people can come together to learn and grow.
The centre offers programs that support health, culture and community. Because of their longtime dedication to improving the lives of others, the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre is a worthy recipient of this year’s BayToday Community Builders Award in the Hall of Fame category.
“We’re grateful and excited that the organization is being recognized,” said Bernice Kataquapit, case manager at Suswin Village Transitional Housing, a shelter run by the NBIFC that helps men in need build important life skills.
Suswin Village offers a structured, supportive and supervised transitional housing program. Residents receive 24/7 assistance from a dedicated client care team, helping them connect with community resources and work toward securing long-term housing.
It provides a therapeutic environment designed to support individuals in addressing the root causes of their homelessness. On-site services include mental health and addictions care, as well as training in social skills, education and employment readiness.
“Our door is always open. We try to help as much as we can,” said Kataquapit, who attended the NBIFC herself when she moved to North Bay in 1988 as a high school student.
NBIFC offers many other programs to help people live healthier lives, like their Children's Wellness Program which offers activities that promote positive behaviour and holistic well-being.
Preserving Indigenous culture is central to NBIFC's mission. They host events like the Bringing Our Languages Back conference, which promotes the use of Indigenous languages such as Ojibwe, Cree and Inuit. These gatherings provide opportunities for people to learn from elders and language experts, strengthening cultural identity and community bonds.
NBIFC's work is guided by the Seven Grandfather Teachings: Respect, Humility, Honesty, Courage, Love, Wisdom and Truth. These values shape their programs and interactions, fostering a welcoming environment for everyone. By offering services that address health, education, housing and culture, NBIFC plays a vital role in building a stronger, more inclusive community.
“Thank you for nominating us and recognizing the work that we do. We hope to continue running our programs and helping those that need us,” Kataquapit shared.
The North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre is a prime example of community building. Through their comprehensive programs and unwavering commitment to Indigenous and Non-Indigenous peoples, they have made a lasting positive impact on countless lives.
The Hall of Fame award celebrates an individual or group whose visionary efforts have had a profound and lasting impact on the community. Their significant contributions have enriched the fabric of the community, whether through the creation of transformative programs, initiatives or institutions (like festivals, parks or community centres).
Congratulations to the team at The North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre!
This award is proudly sponsored by Jack Garland Airport.
