Nova Scotia
The First Nation Girl Empowerment program stems from the West Coast Empowerment Training program in British Columbia and promotes self-esteem and self-care in pre-adolescent girls. The workshop addresses the challenges girls face by helping them before they become teens and before problems may develop. The content has a First Nation focus and is designed to encourage cultural competence and provide information pertinent to working with First Nation youth. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and Mi’kmaq Family & Children's Services co-deliver the training in First Nation communities over a five-week period.
The training promotes self-esteem and self-care in pre-adolescent girls.
Community, Aboriginal & Diversity Policing Services
Deborah MaloneyDeborah.jean.maloney@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
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This initiative has been in place since 2012.
This initiative was undertaken to address the historic levels of abuse experienced by Aboriginal girls and women.
The initial cost to train program participants was minimal, at approximately $500. Craft supplies and items must be purchased to deliver the program; however, these supplies can be purchased at a minimal cost of approximately $100.
This program was delivered by direct outreach either to Chiefs in First Nation communities and/or to the health centres or schools.
The girls left the program feeling more confident about several topics relating to self-esteem and self-care. The sessions allowed them to build relationships with their peers and respect for themselves and others. By building their self-confidence, the girls may make healthier decisions when faced with peer pressure, which could reduce their exposure to violence.
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Additional details on "Groups, Agencies and Key Partners Involved":Mi’kmaq Family and Children's Services have direct involvement in the program. Their Community Programmer co-delivers the program with the RCMP.Additional comments:By building self-esteem, this initiative aims to reduce the level of violence faced by Aboriginal women and girls.
2015-03-01