HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

After a Canada wide study on solvent abuse, concluded in late 1994, prevention program representatives from Chippewa, Onyota'a:ka and Delaware First Nation gave a presentation to the Southern First Nations Secretariat regarding a district youth healing centre. A proposal for this centre was eventually developed under a Health Canada call for submissions intended to address the solvent abuse issue.

As a result, the proposal sought six national Aboriginal youth solvent abuse treatment centres to be located on First Nations territory. The Southern First Nations Secretariat proposal was designed to reflect culturally based perspectives that encompass a wholistic design and development, of the needed program and services.

Nimkee NupiGawagan Healing Centre exists because of the support of the Southern First Nations Secretariat. That support has been expressed in many ways; politically, financially, administratively and through an "arms length" relationship that offered guidance and respect. A steering committee established the organizational structure, initial program outline and policies. Their last official duty was to create the by-laws and to find a name for the centre.

This center has been named "Nimkee NupiGawagan" which translates to "Thunderbirds Necklace". The Thunderbirds Necklace is the rainbow. We know that the rainbow is the aura of a cleansed Creation which comes from the cleansing waters of the Thunderbeings. The cleansing work of the healing centre will promote the true colours of the spirit of the youth to shine.

NNHC incorporated in June 1999 and began operating independent of SFNS in April 2000.

The centre maintains a Children's Residential Operating License under the Child & Family Services Act of Ontario. The Ministry of Family and Community Services provides an annual license review.

NNHC maintains Accreditation by the Canadian Council for Health Services Accreditation

NNHC Inc. is committed to the health and wellness of First Nations people and is therefore 100% abstinent from solvent, alcohol and illegal drugs; including all staff and Board of Directors.