MONTREAL LAKE CREE NATION AND SPIRIT NORTH CHART A PATH OF INSPIRATION AND OPPORTUNITY 

Montreal Lake Cree Nation is at a crossroads of new beginnings. If you were to arrive today you would hear children’s voices amplified with excited bursts of laughter; your eyes would dart to follow the flurry of biking and running. As the community emerges from the dark heaviness of COVID-19 lockdowns, Spirit North and Montreal Lake are working in partnership and reciprocity to spark and channel the energy of the community’s youth.

As Montreal Lake Cree Nation Vice Chief, Dean Henderson says:

“Spirit North is a game changing energizer for positivity within our community. Our youth are being lifted up through this relationship with Spirit North. This is truly a partnership in the full meaning of reconciliation. More than anything at this particular time in history we need examples of action for First Nation children, not just talk. Spirit North is leading the way and we are happy to be partners with them.” 

Through year-round experiences for wellness and physical activity, Montreal Lake youth acquire new skills, have opportunities to lead their peers and share their traditional practices. In spite of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns, the community and Spirit North were able to collaborate on several projects and continue innovating together. Trail-building, trail-naming and grooming initiatives helped youth reclaim their language and also provided an outlet for physical activity during lockdowns. Summer programs, equipped through community-purchased bikes, shoes and canoes, provided consistency and continuity throughout the summer months. A new land-based curriculum, planned to roll out in fall 2021, will create opportunities that spark inspiration and pride among the community’s youth. All of these diverse experiences are working to uplift and empower Montreal Lake youth to see their bright futures take form.