Ehattesaht

Little Community Has Big Dreams

In March, 2008 at a Community Dialogue in Ehattesaht, the people identified their strengths and their dreams for their community. There was broad participation at this meeting and the list of strengths was huge for such a small community. Things the people of Ehattesaht thought would make a difference centered largely around a revitalization of culture.

When community members gathered again a short time later, they brainstormed many project ideas their community could embark upon. In the end, they decided upon the development of a Traditional Longhouse and a Multi-use Lodge that would serve workers and tourists on the isolated coast.

When planning for these ideas began, it became clear that some more basic goals needed to be reached first. Community members identified the need for job readiness and life skills among the band members and research began to find the best solution.

Life Skills Training

In Ehattesaht, Ahp-cii-uk began to gather momentum when the life-skills and pre-employment program of Kutiis was decided upon. This program, offered by the Nuu-chah-nulth Employment and Training Program, was proposed to the community the previous year. Ahp-cii-uk partners worked with the community to tie this program in with the general goals of the community and enthusiasm began to build for participation in Kutiis.

The Ahp-cii-uk local coordinator worked hard to recruit band members for the eight-week course and signed 12 Ehattesaht members up. In addition, a non-Aboriginal friend from the neighbouring community of Zeballos also took the program, helping to build bridges between the two communities.

The graduates of the program showed considerable growth in skills they need to succeed. More importantly perhaps, they had re-kindled dreams they held dear, and a belief they could achieve them. A community store, a daycare and a kayaking rental business were some of the goals Kutiis graduates shared.

Reconciliation

At the graduation of Kutiis, a traditional reconciliation ceremony took place between two young men from the reserve. This ceremony proved to be a healing event between families that would not have happened were it not for Kutiis and Ahp-cii-uk.

The Kutiis facilitator instructed the gathered community to observe how to conduct this ceremony, as they may wish to use it another time.

Building Capacity

One of the participants of Kutiis is a talented artist. Vince Smith received training and support as the paid coordinator of Kutiis, while completing the program himself. After Kutiis, he applied to the newly vacant position of local coordinator for Aph-cii-uk. After Kutiis, Vince has more confidence to take on a new role and build on his skills.

In his role as Ahp-cii-uk local coordinator he shares his skills and enthusiasm in generating community participation. He also receives training and support that will be directly applicable to his long-term goal of establishing a successful art business.

Ahp-cii-uk is also expanding the base of people who are involved in community building, both economic and social. At the beginning of Ahp-cii-uk, the main people attending meetings and providing input were council members and band administrators. Now people from all sectors of the community particpate. Many of the Kutiis graduates want to stay involved and build upon the goals they developed in that program. None of the participants of Kutiis worked in the band office, and most were social assistance recipients. Ehattesaht elders regularly attend meetings and provide valuable input.

Community Beautification

A key project planned during Kutiis was for community beautification. After Kutiis, the graduates are continuing to lead the community in the plan to beautify the community. The Kutiis graduates are enrolling council and other community members into their vision. By leading their community, they are building self-respect, as well as earning the respect of Ehattesaht.

Community beautification began with a community garbage clean up. This effort continues to create a safer and more attractive environment for everyone. A children’s playground is the next step decided on. The goal to complete this project by spring 2010 is well underway.