Skills for Change Joins the DWF Legacy Schools Program in Honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Toronto, Ontario
September 30, 2024
In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th, Skills for Change (SfC) is proud to announce our Language Programs' official membership in the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund's (DWF) Legacy Schools program. This partnership underscores our ongoing commitment to supporting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action by integrating Indigenous perspectives and knowledge into our programs for newcomers.
Skills for Change’s CEO, Surranna Sandy remarks, "Skills for Change is dedicated to creating programs that reflect inclusivity, cultural awareness, and historical understanding. By joining the Legacy Schools program, we deepen our efforts to educate newcomers about the history and ongoing impacts of colonization in Canada, while strengthening our role as allies to Indigenous communities."
Key Program Highlights:
LINC and ELT Programs: Newcomers are introduced to Indigenous history, including the residential school system and its enduring legacy, through curriculum integration, field trips, and workshops.
Youth Leadership Programs: Our Youth Climate Action Initiative (YCAI) and Newcomer Youth Leadership Program (NYLP) collaborate with Indigenous Knowledge Keepers to educate youth on Indigenous cultural practices, environmental sustainability, and the impact of colonization.
Professional Development: SfC staff will receive resources and training to further incorporate Indigenous perspectives into program delivery and service.
By joining DWF’s Legacy Schools program, Skills for Change has access to tools and resources that will enrich our educational offerings, ensuring that our clients gain a comprehensive understanding of Canada’s history and the significance of reconciliation efforts.
Skills for Change is also working towards the creation of a Legacy Space, a dedicated area within the organization for reflection, learning, and engagement with Indigenous voices. This space will symbolize our commitment to reconciliation and fostering cultural understanding in our newcomer and workplace environments.
About Skills for Change
Founded in 1982, Skills for Change is a leading non-profit organization serving immigrants and refugees in Canada. Our mission is to build welcoming and equitable communities. We offer over 25 programs and services and annually serve more than 16,000 immigrants and refugees.
About the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund
Inspired by Chanie’s story and Gord’s call to build a better Canada, the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund aims to build cultural understanding and create a path toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Our goal is to improve the lives of Indigenous people by building awareness, education, and connections between all peoples in Canada. Learn more at DownieWenjack.ca.
Media Contact: Sampada Kukade, VP of Corporate Communications and Stakeholder Engagement, skukade@skillsforchange.org or 416-658-3101, ext. 234.