About
Under One Sky is a registered non-profit organization providing programs and services, educating, advocating for, and empowering a healthy and proud Indigenous community. As a vibrant and caring community hub, our vision is to revitalize, celebrate and embrace all Indigenous peoples and cultures in the spirit of trust, respect and friendship.
Our Story
Under One Sky began as an Aboriginal Head Start program in 2004 serving urban Indigenous families and their children ages 2-5 who live in the Fredericton region. The purpose of the Aboriginal Head Start Program is to support children’s success by doing activities that help them grow socially, emotionally, physically and spiritually. Through this work, Under One Sky recognized the growing need for a community hub that would support the urban Indigenous community in New Brunswick and joined the National Association of Friendship Centres in 2015. The Friendship Centre movement has a long history of bringing people together, creating a sense of community while fostering reconciliation. As a vibrant and caring community hub, we believe that together we are stronger and that simple truth guides our approach to empowering a healthy and proud Indigenous community.
Through the support of Elders, volunteers, board members, staff, funders and community peoples Under One Sky is now one of over 100 Friendship Centre’s across Canada. The first Friendship Centre emerged in Canada over sixty years ago when Indigenous people living in cities needed support when navigating mainstream systems. These Centre’s helped form a sense of community and belonging that was vital to the successful transition of individuals and families who had made their way to the city. As a Friendship Centre, Under One Sky has continued to strengthen our connections with those in our communities and act a safe place to come together to celebrate Indigenous culture in an atmosphere of trust, respect and friendship.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Nelson Solomon Elder
Sarah Rose President
Kelli Reid Treasurer
.Gary Gould Director
Spencer Isaac PAC Chair
Mary Palmater Elder
Katherine Namit Vice-President
Tracy Humble Director
.Marissa Augustine Director
Kailha Winter Smith PAC Chair