Programming responsive to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit at the Bruce Oake Recovery Centre is led by Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Carriers, communities, and people with lived and living experience. It is paramount at Bruce Oake that Indigenous programs are led by Indigenous voices. The Bruce Oake Recovery Program uses a Two-Eyed Seeing approach to substance use treatment, where Indigenous and Western worldviews are integrated to create holistic, strength-based recovery solutions to improve well-being. Bruce Oake recognizes well-being and recovery as synonymous and intricately linked to the growth and balance of a person’s mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, and cultural health.

Sweat Lodges

A dome-shaped structure where traditional medicine water is poured on Grandfather Rocks and teachings are shared. Participants gather there to heal.

Sundance

A ceremony where dancers sacrifice and go without food and water for several days. Several ceremonies happen within the Sundance, allowing for offerings and deep healing.

Pipe Ceremonies/Sharing Circles

Pipe teachings are shared and a safe space for healing.

Drum Teachings/Singing

Traditional songs are shared as well as teachings about the drum.

Land Based

Incorporating or establishing a relationship with the land allows for further strengthening of Indigenous ancestry and the development of individualized tools for recovery and healing.

Connection

The “Mamawi Pinesiwak” name was gifted to the cultural program in ceremony by an Elder. The name translates to “Gathering of Thunderbirds” and symbolizes the strength of unity in the recovery community within the cultural program.

Healing

Recovering Indigenous ancestral identity happens in the safety and strength of strong community. This program is structured to allow for deep spiritual healing, recovery, and growth.

Carving and Artistic Expression                                 

Opportunities to engage in traditional Inuit artistic expression and cultural skill development.

Access to carving supplies and tools, where appropriate and safe to do so.

Inuit-Led Collaboration

Integrated cultural support from Inuit led organizations in collaboration with Bruce Oake cultural team

Quiliq     

A Qulliq is a traditional Inuit stone oil lamp, fueled by seal oil, that provided light, heat, and cooking in the Arctic and carries deep cultural and spiritual meaning: it’s often used in ceremonies, symbolizing life, warmth, and community.                                                                                                                                                                                 

Guiding Principles

The Bruce Oake Recovery Centre holds strongly to principles like Inuuqatigiitsiarniq (Respecting others, relationships, and caring for people) and Mino-pimatisiwin (the good life). We strive to foster respect, kindness, and care for one another, supporting each person’s recovery journey while connecting with culture, community, and the land as pathways to balance, wellness.