Communities Transforming

Ahousaht

Ahousaht is a community of about 800 people living on Flores Island, near the tourism mecca of Tofino. It is accessible by boat or plane only. Another 1100 Ahousaht live away from home, off reserve. Shortages in housing and employment are significant challenges in Ahousaht.

Ahp-cii-uk Ahousaht is re-building and marketing the Walk the Wildside Heritage Trail as a springboard to other social and economic benefits for the community. In the summer of 2009 a crew was hired to clear brush, and build boardwalk, interpretive signs, tent platforms and toilets along the trail.

Another group was hired in the fall to begin marketing and learning how to be guides for the trail. A logo contest for the trail helped bring youth and elders together to talk about the significance of the trail and resulted in the creation of many entries; one of which will be used to market the trail.

Ahp-cii-uk also secured funding for a Welcome Figure to be carved in Ahousaht. Many community members participated in helping master carver George John complete the figure for Ahousaht. A pole raising ceremony was held September 1, 2009.

Ehattesaht

Ehattesaht is a community of about 70 people near the village of Zeballos — accessible only by boat, plane or logging road. There are another 285 Ehatis living off reserve. The band would like to expand housing to accommodate members who would like to move back to the community.

Ahp-cii-uk Ehattesaht chose a Traditional Longhouse and a Multi-use Lodge as their long-term goals for this initiative. This ambitious plan began with a pre-employment course for 11 band members who developed a plan for community beautification which Ahp-cii-uk is helping to realize.

Tseshaht

Tseshaht is community of about 975 located next to the town of Port Alberni, and is the most urban of the three communities.

Ahp-cii-uk Tseshaht chose to work on a Spiritual Healing Centre and a First Nations Art Market. The two groups merged and are collectively working hosting several art market events throughout the year. A community initiative to improve road safety is also supported by Ahp-cii-uk.

This group is working closely with ICBC, the Ministry of Highways, and the RCMP to create safer roads and trails on the reserve. They are also working with RCMP to launch a “Pulling Together Canoe Journey” in 2011.