Comox Valley Aboriginal Visioning and Empowerment (CAVE)

We would welcome your participation with this dynamic group of community service providers, community members, elders and youth as we work collaboratively in our quest. The goal  is to collaborate on how we can work, in unity, toward positive change for and with Aboriginal children, youth and families.

History of C.A.V.E.

The Comox Valley Aboriginal Visioning Group has met on a monthly basis since December 2007. The first meeting was a daylong event. The focus was Community development, networking and collaboration. The group looked at a traditional Aboriginal model of ‘community’.  The participants identified some of the things that the felt has held the community back from working together in a collaborative fashion to improve services to Aboriginal children, youth and families. We  brainstormed solutions and some set some goals. A decision to meet on a monthly basis (with the exception of July and August) was made.

During the following meetings the group agreed upon their guiding principles. Some of the group met with youth to hear their voice and to invite them to future meetings.  Meetings always include Elders.

In the warmer months our meetings are held at David Somerville’s Turtle Council House in Merville. We meet honouring our traditional ways – sitting in Circle around a fire and everyone having a voice.  We meet monthly excluding the summer months.  Those on our mailing list will be informed of meetings and other events.

Participation

We welcome the participation of anyone with an interest in collaboration, community development and capacity building with regard to our common goal which is to plan how we can work, in unity, toward positive change for and with Aboriginal children, youth and families.  Please feel free to forward this invitation on to others who you feel may be interested.

Process

The circle of participants has a time of networking and to ‘check-in’. Everyone has an opportunity to let the group know about new initiatives, upcoming events etc. within the community. The balance of the time is spent planning and brainstorming together.

To be put on our mailing list please email   Karly.Oliver@gov.bc.ca