Supporting Wellbeing partnered with Acho Dene Koe First Nation, Dehcho First Nations, Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę First Nation, Kátł’odeeche First Nation, and Zhatıé Kų́ę́ Frienship Centre to deliver a Supporting Wellbeing training outside of Echaot’ı̨ Kǫ́ę́. This was our first training for the 2025-26 fiscal year!

Five land-based leaders joined the training, travelling from the communities of Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę, Hay River, Zhatıé Kų́ę́, and Fort Nelson First Nation. They were guided through all six Supporting Wellbeing training modules by our facilitators, Rachel Cluderay and Cole Hardisty.  Kristielyn Jones, of Sweetgrass Healing Centre, provided emotional support throughout the training, creating a safe space for participants to explore difficult topics.

This five-day training took place on the Land at Muskeg River, outside of Echaot’ı̨ Kǫ́ę́.  Acho Dene Koe First Nation coordinated all camp logistics. Participants stayed in cabins and tents among the trees and were fed throughout the training by Elizabeth, Abby, Caroline, Mandy, and Hank. We enjoyed sandwiches, soup, moose meat, and more!

During the second day of training we spent time learning from Acho Dene Koe First Nation knowledge holders. Patrick stayed overnight each night as a wildlife monitor. Doris Duntra shared her knowledge about moosehide tanning, bringing hides in various stages for hands-on learning. Lucy Lomen taught us how to make delicious drymeat and made some for us to snack on throughout the week. Shirley Adams came out to camp nearly every day to share stories. When a porcupine was dropped off for us at camp,  Shirley taught us how to take the quills out and told us about using the quills for baskets, earrings, and other art projects! Not only did Caroline cook delicious food, she also taught us how to bead, using the beading kits that each participant received in their wellness kit.

On Thursday afternoon, participants had the option to continue their beading projects at camp, or go to the point to berry pick and dip their feet in the river. Most chose to go to the point. It was important to take this break and ground ourselves through connection with the Land, as we had completed the Suicide Intervention module earlier that morning. Participants shared that this time helped them process the challenging topic. 

Highlights of the training included the on the land activities, learning about the window of tolerance and trauma responses, break out groups to get to know each other, and the aftercare plan.

The facilitators shared their own stories/experiences of on the land successes and downs. Everything taught was well thought of for the north, and I’ll definitely keep it all in mind using this experience and support after.

– Supporting Wellbeing Participant

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the participants, Acho Dene Koe First Nation, partner organizations, knowledge holders, and camp staff for making this such a wonderful training.

Máhsı cho!