Slave Lake Native Friendship Centre Society

416–6 Avenue NE
Slave Lake, AB
Executive Director: L. Cook
Email: slnfc2@gmail.com
Telephone: (780) 849–3039

Fast Facts

During 2006/07 The Slave Lake Native Friendship Centre (SLNFC) served over 20,000 people.

The SLNFC serves an area of 53,150 Sq. Km. with a population of approximately of 22,300. The Aboriginal population is approximately 44% or 9,812.

A Vision for the Slave Lake Native Friendship Centre

Vision Statement: The Slave Lake Native Friendship Centre envisions a community that respects and accepts all people while promoting the enhancement of the quality of life of Aboriginal people through culturally based programs and services guided by the wisdom of our Elders.

Mission Statement: The Slave Lake Native Friendship Centre strives to be a leader in the community by implementing new programs/services that will serve the needs of the Aboriginal people in order to improve their self-reliance and well being.

A Brief History of the Slave Lake Native Friendship Centre

In 1970, two Aboriginal ladies had a common dream, that Slave Lake would have its own Friendship Centre. An action group was formed by a group of concerned citizens who saw the need for an active organization that could bridge the gap between the Native and non-Native cultures and to assist Native people in the transition from rural areas to urban living. The Slave Lake Native Friendship Centre was officially incorporated in 1972. After operating for one and a half years on public donations, both in time and money, the credibility of the organization was established sufficiently to meet the requirements to receive permanent Core (AFCP) funding. Since that time the SLNFC has constantly been expanding its services, programs and vital social agency in the community. The services and programs offered by SLNFC are utilized by the community and surrounding areas, regardless of their race, color or creed. Since beginning operations, the Centre has moved from a small downtown office, to a basement and finally to its present building constructed in 1977. The original building of 4,400 sq. ft. was enlarged by 10,800 sq. ft. in 1982 into the existing building. The Friendship Centre has grown from a few dedicated volunteer staff who worked out of a downtown office to the present modern facility staffed by 5 Core staff. The Friendship Centre is still a vital agency in the community. It is the focal point for newcomers as we are considered the "hub" in the community. It is the first place of contact for newcomers and the community at large as we are a resource and referral Centre. Our programs and services have expanded over the years; however, concern for the welfare of the Aboriginal people remains first and foremost.

Highlights of Programs and Services

Addictions Support
Advisory Boards
Alternate Schooling
Art and Craft Classes
Bullying
Children - Summer Programs
Children- After-school
Children-Cultural
Children-Recreational
Children- Arts/Crafts
Community Development
Community Feasts
Cultural Awareness
Cultural Camps
Economic Development
Elders Wisdom Circle
Employment Training
Employment Services
FAS/FAE
Family Violence
Food Bank
Santa’s Anonymous
Multi-Cultural Food Fest
Family Dances
Resource/Referral
Weekly Soup & Bannock
Foster Care Services
Health Related Programs
Diabetes
Tobacco Reduction
Health & Wellness Fairs
Suicide Prevention
Historical Resources
Museum
Handicraft Room
Homelessness (Offer Meals, Showers)
Justice/Corrections
Language Classes
Literacy
Lifeskills Support/Program
Men’s Programs
Mediation/Negotiation
Recreational Activities
Retreats
Sports and Fitness Program
Women’s Programs
Youth Centre
Youth Camps
Youth Recreation
Youth Arts/Crafts
Youth Education
Girl’s Sharing Circle
Volunteer Appreciation
Community Appreciation

Thoughts on the Slave Lake Native Friendship Centre

"The Friendship Centre is a place to gather with youth and Elders; to share our stories, traditions and learn more about our Aboriginal culture."
—Slave Lake Elder

"I have had the opportunity to meet with other Elders who have encouraged me to learn more about my culture, pass this knowledge on to our youth and to promote the Centre in my community in a positive way. Through the Centre, I have been given the opportunity to travel to other areas of our province which enables me to meet and learn more about other aspects on my culture and to share any knowledge I have gained with others."
—Slave Lake Elder

"It’s a safe place to hang out, when there’s no school. It’s also a place to help people."
—Slave Lake Youth

"I get to use the computers and I can always come to the Friendship Centre."
—Slave Lake Youth

"The Friendship Centre is a place to go to meet people that are friendly."
—Slave Lake Homeless Person

"I have been living here for 6 months – I have been able to talk to staff and get food bank when I need it. The Friendship Centre staff also helps my children and grandchildren in more ways than one."
—Slave Lake Community Member