About Netsanak Wekowaw
Founded in 2022, Netsanak Wekowaw emerged from a vision to address the intergenerational oppression faced by Indigenous peoples who have experienced separation from family and their heritage. The journey of Netsanak Wekowaw began with the recognition of the need for a safe and nurturing space, where cultural identity, familial bonds, and the spirit of a community could be rekindled. Since its inception, we have been on a mission to provide a home for healing, growth, and reconnection.
VALUES
Netsanak Wekowaw's core values are reuniting Indigenous children to their identified family members and inherit communities. Ensuring they each get an equal opportunity together in every aspect of life; giving them a sense of security and ownership while living in their sibling group home.
OUR HOMES
At Netsanak Wekowaw, our homes are designed to be safe, nurturing, and fully equipped to meet the needs of the children we serve. Each home provides a secure and comforting environment where siblings can stay together and thrive. With cozy living spaces, modern amenities, and a strong emphasis on cultural inclusion, our homes are a place where children can feel a sense of belonging and stability. Every detail is thoughtfully planned to create a supportive atmosphere that fosters growth, connection, and the rebuilding of family bonds.
Safe walls, warm hearts.
Proudly Accredited for Quality Care
Netsanak Wekowaw “My Siblings Home” is proud to be an accredited organization, committed to high standards in child and youth group living. Our accreditation reflects our dedication to safe, culturally supportive care for Indigenous youth in Wabasca, Alberta.
By meeting rigorous governance standards, we ensure a secure, nurturing environment that respects Indigenous traditions. This accreditation highlights our ongoing efforts to provide quality care and make a meaningful impact.
Darla
My name is Darla. I was born and raised in Wabasca, Alberta.
My goal is to change lives, in a positive way, by providing love and support. I am a Mom, and so, naturally, I provide this love and support to my own children at home. Now, I am also blessed with the opportunity to share, and teach, this way of life to the children at work. In addition to taking care of the children, at the home, I am also a Registered Massage Therapist. Massage Therapy is another way that I am able to change lives in a positive way, and I am grateful for this. I love working at the home, and love the children. I am learning so much from the courses we take, and from the children themselves. I plan to continue down this path of learning, loving, and helping as long as I live.
Madisyn
Tansi! I'm Madisyn, a Bigstone member from Wabasca, Alberta. I attend the University of Alberta, where I am studying in the Faculty of Education, particularly in elementary education. Aspiring to become a future elementary teacher, I find working at Netsanak Wekowaw immensely rewarding and valuable. This experience allows me to learn essential skills such as empathy, patience, and effective communication, which are crucial for my future career in education.
Interacting with various challenges within the home environment helps me understand the importance of individualized support and fostering a nurturing atmosphere conducive to learning. Working here allows me to make a positive impact on the lives of the children, guiding them towards personal growth and academic success. My commitment to working at Netsanak Wekowaw stems from my passion for helping others and for developing skills that will benefit my future career.
Andrew
Hi, I'm Andrew. I'm from Wabasca Alberta.
I am currently attending school at Boyle Street Education Centre, striving to graduate this year and get my diploma so I can move on in life. From the time that I've been at Netsanak Wekawow, I've learned quite a bit. As my first ever job it's been very rewarding to enhance my skill set. I have experienced many things that benefit me for my future, including cooking skills, learning how to be a role model, patience, and communication with children and others. Its also given me a passion to help others, and understand that everyone goes through difficult things in life and to never judge. This experience will also be beneficial down the line for when I have children, it teaches me how to be observant, cautious, self-aware, and honest. Having this job has helped me be more productive, more in touch with my emotions and feelings, and very aware of my actions with surrounding people.
MISSION STATEMENT
To provide a service that keeps Indigenous sibling groups together and bonded in their own home. To provide meaningful opportunities to parents, family, friends, and community to stay connected to the sibling group, reminding and encouraging healthy life skills. Providing a home environment that is the least intrusive during a difficult time.
Summer
Hi! My name is Summer. I am 20 years old, and I am from Frog Lake First Nations. I started working at Netsanak Wekowaw at the beginning of September 2023. From when I started to now, the children I work with have grown so much! The connection I have with the children is exceptional—they hold a place in my heart that can't compare to anything. To me, they are family, as well as the staff at Netsanak Wekowaw.
I want the children to feel at home and loved, which they do! I really can't imagine myself being anywhere else but here. They are family to me! I love getting to know each child and expanding my love to them. The laughs and silly little moments I share with each child are so meaningful to me. When I'm not at work, I’m often playing video games, journaling a lot, reading, baking/cooking, and hanging out with friends! Lately, my focus has been on working, caring for, and providing for the children. I couldn't be happier to provide and care for them—it feels like I'm at home with them! I want the children to grow and have a bright, meaningful future, and I am here for that! Netsanak Wekowaw is truly a place to call home. ❤️
VISION STATEMENT
For siblings to come together, reunify, and have their inherit family connection strengthened. Providing the opportunity for them to create, build, and learn their healthy life skills. Netsanak Wekowaw will bridge any service gaps between Child and Family Service agencies, Delegated First Nations Agencies, and the children and families who are experiencing their involvement.
