Neejaanisag Leadership Initiative

The Neejaanisag (Children) Leadership Initiative supports children to grow their sense of identity through Nationhood, community, family and individual (child) focused projects. Through Collaborative Partnerships, COTTFN Justice Department, Lands & Environment, Antler River Elementary School (Education Department), Atlohsa Native Family Healing Services and Deshkan Ziibiing community members (men and women) have together shared with the Children traditional ojibwe story telling practices and skillful lessons for creating a Children’s own lodge structure. The events took place over a three day period: October 10, 11, and 12, 2017 during school hours. Community support was requested through Antler River Elementary School flyers to grade 4, 5, and 6 students and their families.

The Neejaanisag (Children) Leadership Initiative is a newly developed opportunity for Collaborative Partnerships both on and off reserve to align strategic plans to serve the well-being of all children in Chippewas of the Thames First Nation. There are more opportunities for COTTFN community members to become involved: key dates for community to consider are Monday November 20, 2017 and Friday January 12, 2018 /Saturday January 13, 2018. A Community notice for these dates will be sent out the beginning of November 2017.

A message by Nwiikjitoonaa Wii Zaagidiying – Dawn-Estelle Miskokomon Violence Prevention Coordinator (COTTFN Justice Department)