The ANFCA Vision

The Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association represents an amalgamation of strong, autonomous Alberta-based Friendship Centres and supports these member Friendship Centres in fulfilling their individual missions and visions with a common goal of improving the quality of life of all urban Aboriginal people residing in Alberta.

The ANFCA Mission

The Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association is committed to improving the quality of life for Aboriginal people in urban areas by supporting self-determined activities that encourage: the development of human and community resources; the improvement of socio-economic and physical conditions; better understanding and relationships between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal citizens; and the enhancement of Aboriginal culture among Aboriginal people and the communities they reside in.

Need for Services and Support

Based on the Demographic Profile of the 2001 Census Analysis Series, nearly half (49%) of all those who identify as Aboriginal People reside in urban areas. In Alberta, the total Aboriginal population was recorded at 199,015 individuals according to the Alberta’s Aboriginal Population Report prepared by AAND Strategic Services in 2003. Of this population 44.3% are below 20 years of age and 77.7% are below 40 years of age. Of those who are 15 years of age and older, 43.9% have not received a high school diploma and only 5.1% have received a university degree. Unemployment amongst those 15 years of age and older is recorded as being 12.6%; 7.8% higher than the non-Aboriginal population. Average individual annual income in 2000 was recorded as being $26,490 for males and $16,780 for females.

It is within this context that Friendship Centres must operate and provide services. The needs of the Friendship Centres are representative of the needs of those that they serve; and the ANFCA recognizes these needs and strives to provide consistent and dependable support for Friendship Centres.