Thunderbird Partnership Foundation

Mino Bimaadiziwin

Thunderbird Partnership Foundation

  • Ep 20: Wanaki Centre - An Inuit and First Nations Addiction Treatment Centre with Gilbert Whiteduck and Jamie Carle

Ep 20: Wanaki Centre - An Inuit and First Nations Addiction Treatment Centre with Gilbert Whiteduck and Jamie Carle

Wednesday 26th July 2023

Learn how Wanaki Centre uses cultural practices and modern health care to support Indigenous wellness in this episode of 'Mino Bimaadiziwin'.
54 minutes
Empowering
Informative
Hopeful
Compassionate
Transformative

About this podcast

Mino Bimaadiziwin
Author:
Thunderbird Partnership Foundation
Overview:
Categories:
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Sobriety Toolkit
Family Recovery from Addiction
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Holistic Health Innovations
Links:
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Episodes:
26 (View all)
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Healing Through Culture: Wanaki Centre's Approach to Indigenous Wellness

Episode Overview

  • Wanakee Center's standards of excellence are rooted in culture and Indigenous ways of knowing, meeting individuals 'where they're at' and acknowledging their strengths.
  • Insights into the profound impact of culture-based programs for addressing opioid and methamphetamine dependency, renewing connections to identity, and empowering individuals to take control of their health care.
  • Innovative virtual outreach of Wanakee Center has extended their reach to individuals who may not be able to attend the residential program, providing vital education and support.
  • Dedication to destigmatizing help and promoting harm reduction as a life promotion tool, transforming lives and paving the way for broader community engagement and support.
  • Importance of trauma-based work, significance of ceremony in finding balance, and the constant commitment to Indigenous wellness.
I think just viewing harm reduction as a life promotion tool is really powerful. You don't have to always be on a medication. Maybe you need to go into the bush. And we know doing these other things can make a world of a difference.
Imagine a place where traditional Indigenous practices and modern health care come together to support those battling addiction. That's what you'll find at Wanaki Centre, an extraordinary facility located in the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg community. In this episode of 'Mino Bimaadiziwin', host Carol Hopkins chats with Gilbert Whiteduck and Jamie Carle, two dedicated professionals leading the charge at Wanaki.
Gilbert, a former chief and social worker, and Jamie, a compassionate nurse, share how their unique harm reduction programs are making a difference for First Nations and Inuit people. Wanaki Centre isn't just any treatment facility; it's a sanctuary where culture and community play pivotal roles in healing.
Since opening its doors in 1991, the centre has offered a four-week wellness program that rotates between French and English, providing a safe space for individuals to rediscover their strengths and balance life's challenges. Gilbert and Jamie delve into how the centre's holistic approach—grounded in kindness, compassion, and cultural practices—helps people heal from alcohol and substance addiction. One of the standout features of Wanaki Centre is its Accreditation of Exemplary Status from Accreditation Canada, a testament to its high standards.
But what truly sets it apart is its innovative virtual outreach program. This initiative extends support to those who can't attend the residential program, ensuring that everyone has access to vital education and support. Gilbert and Jamie also discuss the importance of trauma-based work and the role of ceremonies in achieving balance. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of how culture-based programs can renew a sense of identity and empower individuals on their health care journey.
Gilbert and Jamie's dedication to destigmatizing help and promoting harm reduction as a life-saving tool shines through, making this conversation both inspiring and enlightening. If you're interested in how Indigenous wisdom and modern practices can coexist to tackle addiction, this episode is a must-listen.