Aboriginal Programs An Innovative Outward Bound Program for Aboriginal People Bringing together one Heart, one Mind, one Spirit, one Nation
Our Aboriginal courses combine the philosophy of Outward Bound with the values and teachings reflected in the Aboriginal community. Since 1985, Outward Bound Canada has worked with Aboriginal people and organizations to help develop these inspiring and valuable programs.
An Overview Our courses bring together Aboriginal people of all ages from all regions. On these challenging and exciting wilderness courses, Aboriginal culture and experience is honoured and valued. Through challenge, adventure and the sharing of personal experiences, participants learn they are capable of more than they ever thought possible. Personal growth and confidence are nurtured in a supportive, safe and culturally appropriate environment. Participants bring new leadership, teamwork and outdoor skills home to their communities.
Activities Our courses are wilderness based and include canoeing, rock climbing, kayaking, hiking and campcraft, and, in the winter, dogsledding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, shelter building and winter camping skills. Cultural components include teachings and ceremonies by local Elders, traditional crafts and service projects in Aboriginal communities.
Participants Participants come from across North America. They range in age from 15 to 55+ and include youth, adults, community leaders and educators. Participants come from on and off reserve and include youth who live in foster homes or have been adopted into non-Aboriginal homes.
Your Instructors Our courses are primarily staffed by Aboriginal instructors who provide valuable outdoor leadership from an Aboriginal perspective. Our Aboriginal staff are powerful role models for our participants. In addition to first-rate wilderness and safety management skills they have a specific commitment to working with individuals and organizations from Aboriginal communities.
Equipment and Food Participants don't have to invest in expensive outdoor gear to go on an Outward Bound course. The school provides all the required outdoor gear such as tents, packs, sleeping bags, raincoats, boots and other specialized items. We also provide healthy and satisfying food; this includes three meals a day as well as nutritious snacks.
Health and Fitness People of all shapes and sizes have successfully completed Outward Bound courses. Participants require basic physical and emotional health, but don't need to be athletes. All participants will be required to complete a detailed medical history form prior to the start of the course.
Outward Bound Canada is successfully developing programs by contract with First Nations communities within traditional territories across Canada.
