Family Violence Initiative

COMPENDIUM OF PROMISING PRACTICES TO REDUCE VIOLENCE AND INCREASE SAFETY OF ABORIGINAL WOMEN IN CANADA

ECONOMIC CIRCUMSTANCES

Healing and Reintegration of Offenders

Program Name:

Community Holistic Circle Healing Program

Organization/Community:

Hollow Water First Nation

Location:

Hollow water First Nation, Manitoba

Website:

N/A

Goals and Objectives:

To revitalize and restore the traditional family unit. To foster healthy communities based upon the idea of reconciliation between offenders and victims of violence and abuse.

Target Group Description:

Everyone.

Program Description:

The community makes referrals to the caseworkers who then work with the victim, offender and children. The program is based on regional Anishanaabeg cultural value systems and "ways of knowing". It offers counselling services and provides support groups. The program staff members are encouraged to be very strong networkers with each other and with agencies in the community. All community members are seen as agents who assist in communal healing processes.

Program Successes/Impact:

Revitalization of traditional knowledge among families. The inclusion of traditional practices in community. The realization that healing comes from within one's own self.

Key Lessons/Challenges:

Finding the balance between traditional healing practices and the Canadian legal system.

Program in operation since:

Approx. 1980.

Program:

Ongoing.