Thunderbird House is a multi-use
facility located in the City of Winnipeg’s Point Douglas District. It has over
8,000 square feet of conference room space. There is access to a Ceremony
grounds for Sweat Lodge Teachings. Thunderbird House is a high valued resource
for the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal population. Servicing the community for
Spiritual guidance and support, Thunderbird House is exemplary. Financial stability has eluded Thunderbird
House. As a non-government funded not for profit charitable organization of
Religious entity status, it would seem that financial support would be
forthcoming by the public. Thunderbird House has not had success in attracting
financial aid. It may due to many factors, one being that marketability has
been lacking. Thunderbird House is searching for ways to overcome their
financial weakness.
The one common thread that all Creatures
have is their sense of Identity. Identity is extremely important as to who we
are and how we function. We also know that we do not live in isolation.
Thunderbird House has an identity that is based on inclusion, pride, humility,
history and opportunity. Thunderbird House and the greater population are about
to embark on a journey of inclusion and opportunity.
Thunderbird House is more than an
iconic landmark facility in the City of Winnipeg, Manitoba. It is more than a
symbol of Aboriginal heritage and enduring Spirit. It is a home; a home that
includes everyone. Just like the four directions of the Earth, and the four
entrance ways at Thunderbird House, there are more ways to enter into the lives
of others. Thunderbird House is seeking others to enter their Home and enter
into their journey.
Thunderbird House is unique in that it
is more than a facility for Spiritual guidance of Aboriginal people. It is a
portal to a common goal; Good Life – Mino Pimatiziwin. Thunderbird House and
its supporters have the opportunity to enrich lives. The enrichment of life has
a compound effect for the betterment of the larger community.
In order to accomplish
the common goal, Thunderbird House needs Champions. Thunderbird House needs
Champions to support the ideals of Good Life, healthy living, financial
stability and unwavering commitment.
Thunderbird House is a
majestic building, designed by noted Architect Douglas Cardinal. It is a haven
of support and guidance for the non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal community.
Providing spiritual guidance, community inclusion, and building community
capacity by supporting individuals.
Thunderbird House can only live if it receives help. Building networks,
and financial partnerships will provide Thunderbird House with the means to
continue to capacity build in the community. Individuals that recognize their
potential achieve greater success and practice higher citizenship behavior.
The Aboriginal
population needs support. Thunderbird House, along with its colleagues and
Helpers are going to provide that support. The Aboriginal population is in a
crisis. That crisis is manifested in the market of public services accessed
voluntarily and involuntarily by the Aboriginal population. That access is not ideal for Aboriginal
people in some cases. Where can the change begin to stop the over participation
by Aboriginal people in the unemployment line, the correctional facility, the
child care agency, the welfare line, the health clinics, and the morgue?
It can stop with you,
with us. The identity crisis of the
Aboriginal population is a major hurdle to overcome. By instilling knowledge of
history, of Spiritual beliefs, of pride, of perseverance and of discipline, the
Aboriginal population will prosper. Having a good picture of oneself is one
step, an important step, in becoming a stronger individual. Knowing that you
are part of a larger community that sees itself in a good and positive manner,
is the foundation to a healthier self. Having a strong sense of identity is key
in stopping recidivism in the corrections. It helps with being a better parent,
business member, a trust worthy colleague, a person you can count on, and a
productive member of our society.
Financial supporting
Thunderbird House is a plus for the community. The benefits will out way the
costs.
There are no “magic
bullets” to address all the issues currently faced by the Aboriginal and
non-Aboriginal population. Having a support mechanism such as the people
involved with Thunderbird House is a good start. With your help it will be an
on-going mechanism of support.
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| Thunderbird House |
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| Thunderbird House |
