Programming
Oasis activities are about a journey to self; a processes of getting to know oneself and one’s own story, finding meaning in that and making healthier choices in response to the newfound strength from within.
our programming
Integrated recovery and lasting healing for Indigenous people affected by inter-generational trauma.
Overview
Our base program is called Integrated Recovery and Holistic Wellness which has 5 main activities which are described below.
This program is based on the Medicine Wheel which symbolizes the inter-dependency and inter-connectedness of the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual realms of our being.
The program is the first of its kind in Canada and the only program available in Greater Victoria that is focused solely on spiritual well being via traditional cultural support and connection.
It also aligns with the Calls to Action in the final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
Family Reunification
The family reunification program seeks to reunite participants to their original community, land, and/or to the ones that loved them first. Program staff work with participants who are interested in rediscovering these connections or repairing fractured connections. This program can involve researching, coordinating, and supporting meeting opportunities between family members, Elders, Chiefs, etc.
Street Culture
This program brings aspects of Indigenous culture (food, arts, dance) and healing to urban Indigenous persons who are experiencing homelessness and/or are housed in precarious or temporary housing. The key purpose of this program is to meet participants where they are and reduce barriers to access.
Share in Sustenance
Gatherings (weekly dinners, quarterly lunch distribution, community celebrations, summer fair, space for Elders) oriented around traditional Indigenous foods. We partner with local Indigenous food providers and cooks to provide as much traditional foods as possible. These gatherings involve participants in set-up, preparation, and clean-up to support life skills development.
Weaving Wellness
Weekly workshops that involve crafting, beading, drum making, ribbon skirt making, sharing of traditional medicines (cedar, mountain safe, buffalo sage, sweet grass, lavender, mint, eagle feathers, etc.) and medicine bag making, sharing stories about cultural backgrounds and teachings, etc. We make a point to ensure all these workshops are facilitated or co-facilitated by members of local First Nations.
Celebrate with Community
The purpose of this program is to be a connection to Indigenous people in hospital or living in a long-term care facility who may not have any other family, friends, or support in the South Island, advocate on their behalf, and act as a companion to provide cultural and emotional support in times of need or crisis.
Nurture in Nature
Half and full-day retreats for participants in nature to provide opportunities to connect to the land and cultural practices through outings to the local Coast Salish Nations, as well as locations as far as Tofino and Ucluelet in the Nuu-chah-nulth territories.
Want to Learn More About Oasis Programming?
Download our printable brochure, which has more information on our programming.