About Us
The Niagara Chapter - Native Women was established to promote the equality and well-being of urban Aboriginal women. NCNW encourages Native women to become full participants in society while remembering and honouring their unique cultural and traditional beliefs. We are dedicated to assisting Aboriginal women in the challenges they face in the urban setting and in the issues that affect them daily.
The Niagara Chapter - Native Women is an autonomous local organization of the Ontario Native Women's Association, which is affiliated with the Native Women's Association of Canada. The Niagara Chapter - Native Women meets with the other 83 local organizations of the Ontario Native Women's Association annually. These gatherings provide for the passing on of traditional teachings, sharing of ideas skills, and planning and development of projects.
Niagara Chapter - Native Women offers membership to status and non-status Native Women throughout the Niagara region and surrounding area. We are always looking for new members and new volunteers. Our organization is built on the dedication of our members and volunteers.
Over the years NCNW has offered numerous cultural/social activities. Traditional craft classes and First Nations language classes have been provided to promote awareness and preserve cultural identity. Classes such as ceramics, beading and sewing keep the community members involved, active and learning new skills. Our elderly have used this time as therapy, not only for social interaction where ideas and information are shared, but also as a therapeutic session to improve hand eye coordination and fine motor skills. These activities may reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness that are common among Native women in the urban setting. Our cultural/social activities allow us to improve the well-being and overall quality of life for urban Aboriginal women.
Bingo
NCNW currently runs Bingo at the Uncle Sam's Bingo Hall in Fort Erie, Ont. If you are in town, please call for dates and times. All proceeds go to assist with the work and activities of the Chapter.
Future Plans
We are currently researching funding and revenue opportunities to stabilize the organization. We are building network partnerships with existing community services, businesses and educational institutions as well as other Aboriginal services agencies and businesses. It is our vision to restore the programs and services that we have offered Aboriginal women in the community. The chapter is currently working on a fundraising campaign that will strengthen the chapter and allow us to serve Native women, their families and the community as a whole.
