British Columbia Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres

The Role of Volunteers
All Friendship Centres were founded by volunteers, by Aboriginal and non Aboriginal people working together to provide needed services. The movement is rooted in volunteerism and despite the rapid growth which most Centres have experienced in the past twenty years, they are still highly dependent on volunteers to provide much needed services. Volunteers play a particularly vital role in the areas of cultural and recreational activities for children and youth which form an essential part of Friendship Centre programming.
 
The Role of Elders
Elders play an important part in the Friendship Centre movement. They are both the link with the past and guides into the future. They educate the young on the ways of the past thus ensuring the traditions and culture are not lost. Through their leadership, they point the young towards the future. They promote pride in their culture and in one's self and provide guidance and direction to the leaders within the movement. Friendship Centres recognize and give respect to Elders because they recognize that without the Elders' wisdom and guidance, the movement could not be a family untied, supportive and caring for one another and the people they serve. They are the glue that binds Friendship Centres together in a common cause based on equality and justice.

For more information please contact your Local Friendship Centre 

Or contact the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres
Second Floor ,#200-506 Fort Street, Victoria BC, V8W 1E6
Telephone: (250) 388-5522   Fax: (250) 388-5502