Indigenous Youth Health and Wellness Club Receives Changemaker Award

Posted on Monday, April 19th, 2021

Acts of kindness are always important, but in today’s climate, they may be more difficult to accomplish. On Monday, the Algonquin Board of Governors recognized a group of students who came together to raise funds to purchase health and wellness supplies for Inuit youth in Kugaaruk and Resolute Nunavut, and received the Changemaker Award for their efforts.

The five Bachelor of Science in Nursing students and one Bachelor of Commerce (e-Supply Chain Management) (Honours) student created the Indigenous Youth Health and Wellness club in the Fall of 2020 at Algonquin’s Pembroke Campus.

Since then they have collaborated with nursing stations in remote northern communities and worked with Canadian North Airline to deliver the supplies to remote isolated communities.

“You are true leaders and we are so proud of your accomplishments,” said Claude Brulé, President and CEO of Algonquin College. “We are honoured to bestow upon you the Changemaker Award; it is so deserving.”

Pembroke Dean Dr. Keltie Jones agreed with President Brulé’s sentiment. “They are making us very proud. I’m proud of them and pleased the work they are doing is making a difference.”

The first shipment of donated items included four boxes filled with approximately $1,000 of supplies including sanitary pads, diapers, socks/underwear, and craft supplies.

Fundraising efforts included a silent auction that was held over Instagram selling calendars, stickers, buttons, and beaded art provided by an Indigenous arts and crafts business. A second fundraiser is being planned in collaboration with the Algonquin Students’ Association.

Award recipients:

  • Erin Moore, 4th year, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Co-Lead
  • Peggy Li, 4th year, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Co-Lead
  • Mitchell Usher, 4th Year, Bachelor of Commerce in Supply Chain Management
  • Hannah Usher, 2nd year Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • Vera Wilson, 4th Year, Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • Desaray Rabb, 4th Year, Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • Ayanna Fisher, 3rd Year, Bachelor of Science in Nursing

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