Migisi Bizindan - Eagle's Nest

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By embracing the wisdom of the Eagle's Nest, we will empower Indigenous youth to soar with confidence, cultural pride, and a deep connection to their community and the natural world. Through the window of the Medicine Wheel, connections to mind, body, spirit and emotion will emerge in a meaningful and culturally respectful way. We will support them, help them navigate the challenges our youth face, aiding in them in following a good path on the way to Mino-bimaadiziwin (a good life).

 

Mission:

To empower Indigenous youth to reconnect with their culture, land, and the broader community through a holistic, mentorship-based program and through this keep them on a good path.

 

Objectives:

• Rekindle cultural identity and pride

• Foster meaningful connections with Elders, peers, and the natural world

• Develop essential life skills through traditional teachings and modern practices

• Encourage personal growth, self-awareness, and leadership

• Build better relationships and understanding of culture for youth and police officers

 

Program Participants:

Eagle's Nest is for Indigenous youth between the ages of 12 - 25  who,

• Are at risk and need community support 

• Mandated by courts to do similar programs

 

Program Facilitators:

• Crow Shield Lodge sourced Elders, facilitators, firekeepers, knowledge keepers, lived experience speakers and on-site staff

 

Program Structure:

• 1 full day, bi-weekly at a Crow Shield Lodge location; options for more days on sites for builds or special activities

• Beginning November 2025 to March 2026

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The program runs for a 4-month duration, divided into four phases, each with a distinct focus:

 

1. Discovery: Introduction to land based cultural teachings,

2. Exploration: Land-based activities, traditional skills, and mentorship

3. Development: Leadership, self-awareness, and project development

4. Empowerment: Final projects, ceremonies, and transition support

 

Components:

Mentorship: Pair participants with experienced Elders and youth mentors

Gift Development: Identify and nurture individual strengths and talents

Teaching Circles: Regular sessions with Elders, knowledge holders, and experts

Land-Based Learning: Outdoor activities, such as hunting, gathering, and environmental stewardship

 

Upon completion of the program:

• Participants will be given the opportunity to provide feedback

• Certificate of Completion, acknowledging the participant's growth and achievement

 

 *Funding for staffing, materials, etc has been secured under the Region of Waterloo’s ‘Building Safer Communities Fund’

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For more information please reach out to Crow Shield Lodge by

phone, 226-220-9242 or via email John at programs@crowshieldlodge.com

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