One Arrow Equestrian One Arrow First Nation proudly announces

Centre’s EAL Four Good Reasons Cover this Event

1) THE LEADING, First Nation COMMUNITY (nationally and internationally) to offer a personal growth and development program for every youth in the community to participate in, delivered through the school; a ground breaking commitment to the overall wellness to One Arrow First Nation.

One Arrow EAL Directors will be on-site and available for interviews June 9th, at 11:30 a.m.

2) EAL RESEARCH PARTNERSHIP, AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF THE CONTRIBUTION OF EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING IN THE WELLBEING OF PEOPLE LIVING ON RESERVE; The study is a collaborative effort between the One Arrow Equestrian Ctr (offers EAL Program), researchers at Brandon University (School of Health Studies), Almightyvoice Educational Centre (educational partnership and support), One Arrow First Nation of (Chief and Council providing full support). Press Packet Researcher from BU, EAL Dirs, School Principal, and One Arrow First Nation Special Education Dir will be on-site and available for interviews, at 11:30 a.m.

3) ONE ARROW EQUESTRIAN CENTRE GRAND One Arrow Equestrian Centre OPENING and Inspire Direction Equine Assisted I.D.E.A.L. Program Learning Program (I.D.E.A.L.), first program of its kind, Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning designed to facilitate new skills for personal growth and Box 89, Domremy, SK S0K1G0 development: four teachers and their students will be Lawrence Gaudry – Executive Director, 306.423.5454 demonstrating different EAL exercises in the arena Koralie Gaudry – Program Director, 306.233.8826 www.oaecidealprogram.ca E-mail: [email protected] between 12:00 - 3:00 p.m.

4) FIRST ANNUAL EAL GRADUATION; teachers and students will be demonstrating their skills, and will be 306.423.5858 presented with participation certificates at 3:00

One Arrow First Nation One Arrow First Nation

Equine Assisted Learning Fact Sheet

Press Conference Agenda Although the band membership continue to grow, One Arrow First Nation, like other First Nation people across are still experiencing hardships. These issues spill over to First Nation youth who are experiencing: 8:00am PANCAKE BREAKFAST, One Arrow Treaty Committee kicks off

family activities with a pancake breakfast at the Almightyvoice $ significant difficulties at home and school; Education Centre $ placed in foster care, over four times the rate of non-Aboriginal children;

$ failing to complete high school; 11:00am PRESS CONFERENCE guest speakers: $ over-representation among those charged with criminal offences; $ Chief Dwayne Paul, One Arrow First Nation, will present a brief $ statistically higher chance of victimization; overview of the reasons he and the Council believed in the benefits $ experiencing feelings of alienation and depression; Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) could bring to his community and $ high incidents of childhood sexual or physical abuse; report on some of the successes they have already observed; $ engaging in high risk behaviors, high rates of attempts and suicide; $ A student from Almightyvoice Education Centre, introduce the $ low employment rates; Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning (E.A.L.) program at the One Arrow Equestrian Center; $ Tribal Chief Felix Thomas, Tribal Council, as an The leaders of One Arrow First Nation continue to stand up for what they advocate of accountability, personal growth and development, believe in are creative problem solvers, and forward thinkers. They are Thomas will speak to the success health and social development working on strategies to prevent these issues instead of just managing could experience by delivering EAL to every youth in the community crisis. They are not relying solely on the Government to support or direct through the school; he is encouraged with One Arrow’s EAL resolution of their problems, but take responsibility themselves. Today they preliminary educational findings and supportive of the One carry on with their culture still intact. They teach their children to carry on Arrow/Brandon University’s research partnership’s potential to these traditions and remain true to their own spirituality. provide a long lasting positive solution to some of the current issues; The leaders sought out ways to assist their people to deal with the issues $ Vice Chief Morley Watson, FSIN, to speak on IDEAL program they face now, and provide them skills to prevent the issues in the future as potential in relation to his role as the Justice Secretariat; well as a way to build the community‟s capacity to be strong, positive $ Andrea C. Hinch-Bourns, Brandon University, will have the leaders of tomorrow. privilege to officially announce the partnership of Brandon University‟s Health Studies researchers, the Inspire Direction To regain their strength as a strong community lost during their hardships, Equine Assisted Learning (E.A.L.) program at the One Arrow Chief and Council decided it was important to provide the members with Equestrian Center, and the Almightyvoice Education Centre; culturally congruent, valuable life skill development through partnership with intended focus of the study: an exploratory study of the the horse. contribution of equine assisted learning in the wellbeing of first nations people living on reserve The horse is a powerful spiritual entity in culture. The horse gives us strength and symbolizes freedom. One Arrow has made a significant 11:30am INTERVIEWS each person will be onsite identified by a name investment financially, mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually in badge and available for interviews at the press tent using Equine Assisted Learning and therapies as a fundamental strategy to $ Guest Speakers, (listed above); instill hope, healing and prosperity for their community. One Arrow First $ Lawrence & Koralie Gaudry, EAL Program Directors; Nation is honoring that spirit and extends an invitation to other bands and $ Candace Scott, Principal Almightyvoice Education Centre Government officials to recognize One Arrow‟s efforts in utilizing the horse $ Connie Regnier, AEC Special Education Director as part of their education and healing strategies. One Arrow First Nation is $ School teachers and students attending the EAL program. seeking support to keep this innovative and unique project alive, not only for One Arrow, but also for other people in the territory. 12:00 – 3:00pm GRAND OPENING, RIBBON CUTTING, E.A.L. YOUTH DEMONSTRATION STATIONS inside the arena and LUNCH

3:00pm STUDENT EAL GRADUATION CEREMONY in the One Arrow Equestrian Centre arena.

4:00 – 6:00pm ROAST BEEF SUPPER in the One Arrow Equestrian Centre arena.

youth and community members to be strong, confident and capable people that can be leaders today and tomorrow," stated Chief Paul.

How: Unlike other equine assisted activities that involve riding and focus on physical and developmental disabilities (e.g. Riding, hippotherapy), the specially designed activities at One Arrow Equestrian Centre‟s I.D.E.A.L program are 100% on the ground and focus on metaphoric and experiential learning. In addition, the I.D.E.A.L program utilizes a professional team consisting of certified facilitators, a certified equine specialist, and the News Release – June 09, 2011 – horses to address learning and treatment goals. This unique facility has One Arrow First Nation, Saskatchewan professional staff dedicated to providing positive life skills, leadership and Contact: Koralie Gaudry, phone 306-423-5858, e-mail: [email protected] teambuilding services in a fun and exciting atmosphere. Teams of participants work together with a horse partner to overcome "Horses can’t talk, but they communicate if you listen" challenges/obstacle courses set forth by the I.D.E.A.L team.

One Arrow First Nations proudly announces THE FIRST, First Nation Each horse/human obstacle has an objective that the participants learn and COMMUNITY (nationally and internationally) to offer a personal growth and experience hands on. The objectives of the program are tailored to the development program for every youth in the community to participate in, group in the arena. A group of school kids may benefit learning about delivered through the school; a ground breaking commitment to the overall assertiveness and problem solving, whereas a corporate group looking to wellness to One Arrow First Nation. develop their employees into an effective team may benefit from working on communication or teambuilding challenges. While participants work in the EAL Research Partnership Agreement, AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF arena with horses, the I.D.E.A.L facilitators point out the teachable moments THE CONTRIBUTION OF EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING IN THE provided by the horse. This allows participants to gain awareness into WELLBEING OF FIRST NATION PEOPLE LIVING ON RESERVE; The current self limiting behaviors and have an opportunity to practice new skills. study is a collaborative effort between the One Arrow Equestrian Centre After the experience in the arena, participants are given an opportunity to (offers EAL Program), researchers at Brandon University (School of Health debrief and discuss what they learned and how they can apply their new Studies), Almightyvoice Educational Centre (educational partnership and skill learned or new awareness into their everyday life to be more support), One Arrow First Nation of Saskatchewan successful.

ONE ARROW EQUESTRIAN CENTRE GRAND OPENING and Inspire The IDEAL approach is a strength based approach that focuses on what Direction Equine Assisted Learning Program (I.D.E.A.L.), first program of its skills and personal awareness participants already have and build on them kind, designed to facilitate new skills for personal growth and development; further. The IDEAL program at One Arrow First Nation is an effective, FIRST ANNUAL EAL GRADUATION; four teachers and their students will powerful and positive experience that can create a personal journey and be demonstrating different EAL exercises in the arena between 12:00 and has had an incredible impact on individuals, groups, families, corporate 3:00. leaders, youth and adults.

Why Horses: Horses offer opportunities for experiential emotional growth The role of the human animal bond has been postulated to promote wellness and prevent illness (Beck & Katcher 2003) and learning. As herd animals, horses are highly sensitive to the emotions of those around them and react to those emotions through non-verbal communication (e.g. pinned ears, swishing tails). "The I.D.E.A.L program‟s AGENDA, June 09, 2010: activities require the participant or group to apply certain life and social skills 11:00 NATIONAL PRESS CONFERENCE: to tasks involving the horses. Working with horses requires a person to be Announcing the first community to provide EAL to every youth in the their authentic self. Horses provide immediate and honest feedback. community through the school and Announcing EAL Research Partnership, at the Press Tent This is an effective education and mental health service and all are welcome 11:30 INTERVIEWS with guest speakers, Lawrence and Koralie Gaudry, to the demonstration so you can see for yourself," said Koralie Gaudry, program directors, principal, special education director, teachers Program Director for One Arrow Equestrian Centre‟s I.D.E.A.L program. and students in the program, at the Press Tent. 12:00 GRAND OPENING, RIBBON CUTTING, E.A.L. DEMONSTRATION "Seeing the participants transform throughout their 16 week journey has STATIONS, LUNCH at the One Arrow Equestrian Centre and the been remarkable," says Lawrence Gaudry, Executive Director for One Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning Program (I.D.E.A.L.) Arrow Equestrian Centre. On June 9, 2011, the first nine classes from One 3:00 GRADUATION, the First Annual I.D.E.A.L program graduation. The Arrow First Nation‟s I.D.E.A.L program will graduate and will be recognized public, media, medical professionals, parents of youth, youth, during the grand opening. veterans, elders and other interested people are invited to the grand opening and EAL demonstrations (no horse experience necessary). One Arrow Equestrian Centre‟s staff is certified by a national recognized At the One Arrow Equestrian Centre and the Inspire Direction academy, Cartier‟s Equine Learning Centre, which provides education, Equine Assisted Learning Program (I.D.E.A.L.) standards, innovation, and support to professionals providing services in Equine Assisted Learning around the world.

Horses are helping people at a program at One Arrow First Nation through EAL One Arrow FN Research: One Arrow First Nation leaders are forward the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning (I.D.E.A.L) Program. One Arrow First Nation is the first community, nationally and internationally to thinkers, understanding the benefits of engaging their community members offer a culturally significant equine assisted learning program to their entire in physical, emotional, social and cultural ways, while at the same time community, as well is committed to offering these same benefits to other building valuable life skills, in fun and self motivating environment. One first nations. Arrow First Nation is working in partnership with researchers from Brandon University to develop a research project to capture qualitative and Why One Arrow FN: One Arrow Equestrian Centre‟s I.D.E.A.L program quantitative data in a study to substantiate the effects EAL has at the helps people help themselves through equine assisted growth and learning. individual and community levels. The program at One Arrow is unique and proactive. Most social skills Equestrian Centre Grand Opening: One Arrow Equestrian Centre is a programs are directed towards people at risk or have already been influenced by negative circumstances surrounding them. One Arrow‟s newly renovated, heated and year round indoor horse facility that was program is a proactive capacity building strategy that partners with primarily constructed to offer the I.D.E.A.L program and other recreational communities to build protective factors in participants. One Arrow First equine activities to the youth and adults on One Arrow First Nation and the Nation‟s leader Chief Dwayne Paul and the community councilors initially surrounding areas. For directions please call 1-306-423-5858 or e-mail invested in this program as a culturally relevant way to empower people in [email protected] and on the web at oaecidealprogram.ca. their community to make positive life changes. "We need to help all our

Principal Candace Scott, Biographies Almightyvoice Education Centre Chief Dwayne Paul, One Arrow First Nation

One Arrow First Nation Candace was born and raised on the Beardy‟s and Okemasis First Nation located on the West side of the Saskatchewan River. Her mother was from Chief Paul was born and raised at One Arrow First Nation. He has a the One Arrow First Nation, providing her with many relatives in the wonderful wife Lori, and three children, Trevor 24, Gage 17, and Reagan 15 community. Candace has been happily married for 31 years to Russell and one grandson Cohen 3. Chief Paul has been Chief of One Arrow First Scott. She has four wonderful children, 3 of which are adults and married Nation for thirteen and a half years. Before his time as Chief, he worked in and she also has 3 beautiful grandchildren. at a group home for troubled youth and was a council member for 5 years. Throughout his career as Chief, he has held health, education and In 2004, she came to work as a teacher at the Almightyvoice Education recreation portfolios. Chief Paul‟s passion is advocating for improved Center. For two years she greatly enjoyed working in the classroom. Most access to education for his community members. To that end, over the last of Candice‟s career involved doing administrative duties, so the change to year Chief Paul and council have encouraged the value of education for being in the classroom for those two years was a very rewarding time for those between the ages of 18 and 30. There have been many changes in her. In 2006, she took on the Principalship at Almightyvoice Education the areas of Social Development and Education at One Arrow First Nation Center, and has been in that position since. She has enjoyed working with over the past year. Chief and Council have succeeded in offering Adult everyone in the community. Education both on and off reserve as well as supporting those over 18 and in high school. Candice commented: “The staff from the Equestrian Center have been involved with school activities, and training that Almightyvoice Education January of this year also saw the opening of the Equine Learning Facility Center has to offer. We all have been working as a team, because their which offers the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning Program. There beliefs are our beliefs that children come first and children can learn, even are currently 90 participants which will graduate on June 9th. This is an from horses.” exciting asset in which the whole community can benefit. Under the direction of Chief Paul and Kristina Matchap (Education portfolio holder and Candice understands what hands on learning can provide youth. Because council member), Almighty Voice Education Center staff have been working the I.D.E.A.L. program teaches life skills and compassion through hard to provide a quality education to their students and as part of this goal experiential learning she knew the program would be a great fit to provide they have integrated the equine assisted programming directly into the the primary prevention strategies all youth need to successfully navigate school curriculum. Another accomplishment over the last 3 years was the through their social and academic lives. Candice has been instrumental in start of the Fire Creek Gas and Grill business operations which has created incorporating the I.D.E.A.L. Program into the curriculum and supporting the numerous job opportunities and the financial security for the community. teachers and students in this venture. Other milestones of his career include helping the community out of third party receivership, the development of an apartment complex in Saskatoon, Connie Regnier and development of numerous job and educational opportunities for band AEC Special Educ/Balanced Literacy members. Some of the boards Chief Paul sits on are for the Dakota Dunes Coordinator, Almightyvoice Education Centre Community Development Corporation, Indigenous Gaming Regulators. On behalf of One Arrow First Nation‟s recent efforts, Chief Paul accepted the Connie was born and raised in the small rural Saskatchewan Aboriginal Literacy Network Award in the community of St. Louis, SK where she continues to business/organization category. th reside with her family; her common-law husband

As recently re-elected Chief for his 6 term, Chief Paul plans to focus on Roy and their three children Troy, Ryley and supporting families so that parents may realize their educational and career Shayna. Connie enjoys the closeness and pride of goals. He strongly believes that educational, therapeutic and skill building the small town. programs will empower families to successfully build the skills to be strong, confident and positive community members and leaders. Chief Dwayne Connie is of Metis ancestry. She has been teaching for 22 years, twelve of Paul believes that the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning Program which have been with the One Arrow First Nation at the Almightyvoice at the One Arrow Equestrian Centre has the ability to open the doors to Education Centre. In the past 15 years she has worked in the area of create a community of unconditional caring for one another. special education. Connie takes pride in being an advocate for the students who need the differentiated instruction and supports the inclusion of students in the classroom.

Living in the area Connie knew how horses have been an integral part of the community. Although initially afraid of horses herself she supported the development of the IDEAL program. Connie had seen firsthand behavior changes in some of the toughest youth. Connie has been invaluable in assisting the staff at the One Arrow Equine Center and the Teachers at the Almightyvoice Education Center with the start-up of the I.D.E.A.L. Program. She freely shares her enthusiasm with students, teachers and the general public.

Tribal Chief Felix Thomas, Vice Chief Morely Watson,

Saskatoon Tribal Council FSIN Felix Thomas is a member of the Kinistin Saulteaux Nation and grew up in that community. He is married to Dawne and they have four children. Felix A member of the Ochapowace-Chacachas First Nation located near Whitewood, Vice- Chief Morley Watson is serving his third term with the FSIN. obtained his formal education from the University of Saskatchewan with Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. Throughout his life, from childhood to the present, Vice Chief Watson has been actively involved with sports, as a competitor, coach, manager and supporter. His participation A relatively young leader, Felix has amassed over thirteen (13) years of in various sports such as hockey, fastball, etc. has played a major factor in his growth experience in First Nation governance by serving as a Band Councilor for and development as a person with principles of fairness and sincerity yet with a strong two (2) years and as Chief of Kinistin for eleven (11) years. His work competitive nature to challenge and stand up for what is right, especially for the experience includes a stint as Executive Director of the FSIN‟s Health & people. Social Development Commission for three (3) years. An experience he describes as very valuable and contributing to a broader understanding of In 1988, he opened Watson Sporting Goods in Melville; this was the first owned and operated business by a First Nation individual of its kind at that time. Business proved the inside operations of a First Nations political organization. to be second nature to him and his business thrived; but being one not ever far from In addition to serving as a Board and Commission member on various his roots, he returned to Ochapowace to assist the First Nation in the area of economic agencies within Saskatchewan, Felix has also served First Nations people development in 1993 and through strategic planning, the Nation became very progressive in the world of business as new ventures were established. as: • Co-Chair of the Assembly of First Nations‟ (AFN) Chiefs‟ Committee on Believing that First Nations peoples can compete at all levels in sports, he became a Health founding member of the Lebret Eagles Jr. A Hockey Club, which was very successful. He also became a major contributor to the Ochapowace Sports & Recreation program • Member of the AFN National Self-Government Committee by coaching, managing and volunteering with the various hockey and fastball teams, capturing league and provincial championships. He was honored when he was • FSIN Indian Government Commission inducted into the Indian Head & District Sports Hall of Fame. • Member of the Board of the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority In 2006, he took on the challenge of coaching the FSIN Midget Boys‟ Fastball Team • Member of the Board of the Indigenous Gaming Regulators and not only did they earn Gold at the North American Indigenous Games held in Denver, Colorado but they went on to win the Canadian National Championship – it is • Member of the Board of the Saskatchewan Indian Training Assessment believed to be the first in the history of Softball Canada that a First Nation team would Group earn a national title. • Member of the Board of the Saskatchewan Indian Cultural Centre Growing up as a son of a Chief, First Nation‟s politics was very familiar to him; his father and brothers served their Nation in leadership as Chief and/or Councilors so it • Chair, STC Casino Holdings Corporation was natural for him to follow the path set before him. He was elected to Council in 1982 and eventually became Chief, serving for two terms. A major accomplishment • Vice-Chair, Dakota Dunes Community Development Corporation while in office was when he negotiated the first ever Alternate Funding Agreement In the political realm, Felix has proven to be committed to the vision of (AFA) in Canada this agreement is only allowed for First Nations with exemplary financial management. Another achievement while in office, he assisted in the creating opportunities for First Nation people through personal and advancement of legal action against the Saskatchewan Government that led to the professional development and empowerment initiatives. He has actively Treaty Land Entitlement negotiations. worked in the protection of Treaty Rights. A particular success was when he negotiated a moratorium on any changes to Non-Insured Health Benefits in Elected to serve his first term in 1997 as the First Vice Chief of the Federation of 1998 which prevented their erosion for just short of a decade. Other active Saskatchewan Indian Nations, his portfolios included Education & Training; Sports, involvement includes community development initiatives, accountability to Culture, Recreation & Youth. He sat as Chair, Co-Chair and Board of Director to First Nations, and improvement of education, health and social programs. various boards and commissions.

Felix has advocated for responsible and responsive leadership by endorsing His second term commenced in 2003 and he was given the portfolios of Health & leadership that is effective, experienced, educated and committed. Felix Social Development and Education, also sitting as the representative to the national believes in working with the greatest resources of First Nations, which are Chiefs Committee on Health and Education during that term in office. Never one to shy people. He demonstrated his belief that programs and services need to be away from the tough issues, he has made the difficult decisions in his portfolio areas appropriate to each community, designed and administered by them that are for the benefit for all First Nations in Saskatchewan and their members. through his role as lead negotiator on the initial Health Transfer Agreement. He led the discussion on the tribal council He was elected in 2006 to his third term, and currently holds the files on Economic and design for community-based control. Further, Felix ensured that the STC Employment Development, Gaming Jurisdiction and Housing & Public Works. He sits on the national Chiefs Committee on Economic Development representing the and Province of Saskatchewan Bi-Lateral Agreement on Child and Family Saskatchewan region. Re-elected in 2009 to a fourth term, Vice-Chief Watson was Services protected First Nations jurisdiction and authority. given the portfolio responsibilities of Economic Development, Finance & Felix has worked tirelessly for his own community. One of his greatest Administration, Sports & Recreation, and most recently Justice. He continues to sit on the national committees at the Assembly of First Nations for his assigned portfolio attributes is his commitment and ability to working collaboratively with all responsibilities. stakeholders to move issues forward to a resolution. He is a proud father and grandfather, very active in their upbringing and encouraging them in their endeavors. He is very close to his brothers and sister and enjoys spending time with his numerous nieces, nephews and traditionally adopted children. He is a corner stone for his family and is a role model for First Nation‟s people; he is an abstainer of drugs and alcohol, participates in cultural ceremonies and is active in communities‟ events.

Andrea C. Hinch-Bourns, BFNAC, MSW Lawrence Gaudry, Executive Director, One Brandon University, Arrow Equestrian Centre Inc. Health Studies Department Lawrence is the Executive Director of One Arrow Equestrian Centre Inc. and is a certified facilitator for the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Andrea is of Okanagan and European ancestry; she is a member of the Learning program (I.D.E.A.L). Lawrence holds two certifications in equine Okanagan Indian Band located at Head of the Lake near Vernon, British assisted learning and equine assisted psychotherapy from the nationally Columbia. recognized schools; Cartier‟s Equine Learning Center and EAGALA. Born and raised on a farm southwest of Brandon and Andrea received her Lawrence‟s education in Natural Resource Management has provided him early years education in a one room country school before being with the experience to effectively manage, and operate an equestrian transported to Brandon via bus to attend grade six through 12. facility. Upon completion of the Assiniboine Community College (ACC) Licensed Lawrence grew up on a small farm in which provided him with the Practical Nursing (LPN) Program in 1983, Andrea has worked as an LPN for knowledge and experience that every day farm life provides. He worked almost 20 years in a variety of rural and urban settings. Andrea‟s experience alongside his family on a cattle operation where they relied on horses to in health care is extensive and includes acute and extended care, mental work cattle. From a young age, Lawrence has been an avid team roper and health, and working in a First Nations community where she was immersed enjoys competing all over western Canada. Lawrence has won numerous in the culture and traditions. buckles and trophy saddles in his career and looks forward to working, living, and continuing his roping career in Saskatchewan. Lawrence is a Following a career ending accident, Andrea returned to school and obtained proud father of three girls, enjoys spending time with them, while they ride a diploma in Aboriginal Community Development from ACC; she graduated and compete in various rodeo events. Lawrence is also a certified farrier, with a Bachelor of First Nations and Aboriginal Counseling Degree from runs a successful business and looks after all the hoof care at the centre. Brandon University (BU) in 2002 and began the Master of Education at BU that same year, but found it was not her area of interest. In 2003 Andrea was accepted into the Pre-Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Manitoba and is currently completing the thesis requirement of the MSW degree. Andrea‟s research focus is Meaning- Making through Spirit: Indigenous women‟s‟ stories of Loss, Grief and Living. Andrea‟s research background is primarily qualitative with a special interest in Indigenous Research methodologies, Indigenous people and mental health, Indigenous culture, worldviews and knowledge translation, incorporating Western and Indigenous approaches to healing and wellness and improving access, retention and education for Indigenous people. She Koralie Gaudry, Program Director, actively participates in ceremonies and provides cultural awareness presentations for Brandon University, the Brandon Regional Health Authority and community agencies. One Arrow Equestrian Centre Inc. and the In 2008 Andrea co-facilitated a presentation at the RPN World Congress on I.D.E.A.L Program the partnership between the Brandon Regional Health Authority and the Brandon Friendship Centre to provide culturally competent mental health Koralie is the Program Director of One Arrow Equestrian Centre and the services to Aboriginal people in Brandon. She was the Acting Director of the I.D.E.A.L program. Koralie has a Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing First Nations and Aboriginal Counseling Program at Brandon University for and currently considering a Masters Degree. She began her career in the past two years. northern Manitoba where she worked in acute and community mental health programming. Koralie has experience in developing and operating mental Life-time horse enthusiast Andrea also has a keen interest in capacity health and wellness programming to all ages. Koralie became involved with building through attainment of Equine Assisted Learning and Equine horses through her marriage with her husband, Lawrence. Koralie‟s passion Assisted Psychotherapy credentialing. is to help people to be the best they can be. Through experience she discovered how horses can facilitate this. Working with some of the toughest population, Koralie was in search of an alternative way to engage youth in learning and healing and equine programming had proven results. Because of this Koralie became certified in equine assisted learning through Cartier‟s Equine Center and in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy from EAGALA. Koralie, her husband and three girls, Hannah, Halle and Haddison moved to Saskatchewan to develop the equestrian centre. In her spare time, Koralie enjoys riding and travelling to equine events with her family.

Map to One Arrow First Nation History One Arrow (Peyak- Achosis) Arrival from : $ From Wakaw head West on Hwy 312 to junction of Hwy 225. $ Turn right on 225 & head North past Batoche Historical site.

One Arrow First Nation is a Canadian Cree First Nation. Its reserve is $ Turn right on 225 toward Bellevue located just east of Batoche, Saskatchewan near the South Saskatchewan $ Go approx. 6.4km East & turn South at One Arrow First River about 100 km Northeast of Saskatoon. It is bordered by the Rural Municipalities of St. Louis No. 431, Fish Creek No. 402, and Duck Lake No. Nations sign. 463. $ Head South approx.4.8 km to the Almightyvoice Education Centre. The community of One Arrow is honored to be named after Chief One Arrow. The Office of the Treaty Commissioner notes that One Arrow was $ The Equestrian facility is located just South East of the born in1815, in the valley of the Saskatchewan River, Kapeyakwaskonam) school. One Arrow (was the chief of a band of Willow Cree.

In 1876 Chief One Arrow settled across the near Arrival from the North: Batoche after signing an in adhesion to Treaty Six near . The $ From Prince Albert take Hwy 2 South. original reserve‟s location was surveyed for 16 square miles in 1880 with 87 members. $ Turn West at Bellevue sign onto the 225 grid. $ Approx. 5km past Bellevue turn left or South at One Arrow One Arrow's band was reported to have been involved in the 1885 North- First Nations sign. West Resistance. There is much debate over One Arrow's involvement in the conflict. Some historical accounts claim they are associated with the $ About 4.8km on the left side of the road is the Almightyvoice Resistance only because of its close proximity to the Metis community at Education Centre. Batoche. Other historical documentation claim Chief One Arrow and his warriors did fight in the Battle of Batoche and was responsible for their own $ The Equestrian facility is located just South East of the line to defend. Additionally, during the battle of Batoche, Chief One Arrow school. allowed his friend to use cattle from their Reserve to feed his men. Arrival from : Consequently Chief One Arrow would be arrested for his role in the $ From Rosthern take the 312 East Rebellion. He was sentenced to 3 years for felony treason. While serving time at Stony Mountain penitentiary Chief One Arrow became ill and died on $ Cross the Gabriel Bridge and turn left on Hwy 225. Easter Sunday April 25, 1886 at, 76. His last words to the Government of $ Head North past Batoche Historical site. Canada were “Do not mistreat my people”. $ Turn right on 225 toward Bellevue

After his arrest the band was marked as “ALL DISLOYAL” and taken off the $ Go approx. 6.4km East & turn South at One Arrow First Treaty pay list for four years. There were many years of uncertainty in the Nations sign. community without a Chief for a number of years until Prosper John; the $ grandson of Chief One Arrow was instated. Head South approx.4.8 km to the Almightyvoice Education Centre. After the rebellion many of the community members left the Territory and $ The Equestrian facility is located just South East of the never returned. The NWMP set up barracks near Batoche, afraid of another uprising. A pass system was enforced, which meant members had to obtain school. a pass to leave the Reserve. These times were very difficult.

In the spring of 2007, efforts began to repatriate Chief One Arrow‟s body from the St. Boniface cemetery. The same cemetery Louis Riel was buried. July 9, the Manitoba Government approved the disinterment. July 25, Chief One Arrow arrived at the Reserve. He was repatriated August 28, 2007, the same day he signed Treaty Six, 122 years ago. Spiritually, bringing Chief One Arrow home was a very important milestone in One Arrow First Nation moving forward to take care of their people.

Today, the community consists of 1,580 members, living on and off reserve. Their infrastructure includes a general store, mechanic shop, rodeo grounds, sports and pow wow grounds, school, health clinic, band office, band hall, newly developed year round Equestrian Centre and Firecreek Gas Station and apartment complex in Saskatoon.

Equine-Assisted Learning programs have the ability to be a powerful journey of learning and understanding. Horses in this program are powerful teaching tools, they immediately respond to what the participant is doing. Facilitators are trained to look for those “teachable moments” that the horses identify. Quite simply, the horse does the teaching; facilitators are there to offer the explanation and provide guidance We Welcome to find a solution. this opportunity to introduce you to One Arrow Equestrian Centre and the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning Program. This The single most asked question is; why are horses used? Horses EAL program series was originally designed to facilitate the building are culturally significant. Horses have been involved in healing for of personal development skills, while „using horse sense‟. Since its years before it was formally documented. They facilitate balance in inception, we have found that participants receive a wide range of the physical, social, spiritual and emotional areas of life. Horses individual benefits, especially when enhanced by the follow-up are extremely sensitive, aware of their surroundings and quick to efforts in the community. react. For their mere survival, a wild horse, must constantly be on guard, through herd training they gain trust and respect. Nature This past year we developed specialized components that provides them with instincts and senses that are very astute. encourages positive change in destructive behaviors. We have been working with Almightyvoice Education Centre, who is Horses know how to discern the difference between a calm non- committed to dealing with their bullying problem. They have threatening approach and anxious, nervous energy. However, enrolled a couple groups that exhibit aggressive bullying every horse is different just as each child is unique. tendencies. To understand how this process works we must first realize how Just last week we received a telephone call from one of the horses learn and understand their own rules of survival. In a teachers that has students that attend our EAL program. She horse‟s world, the rules are clear, easy to understand and dealt with started by quoting a statement Dr. Phil recently made on the air, swiftly if challenged. By realizing this about horses we can alter our “bullying is the number one cause of teen suicide in America teaching techniques to become more efficient. Horses look for today,” then thanked us for our program development efforts. The strong leadership and are willing to follow after they find trust and teacher noted that since her kids enrolled in our program, her respect. classroom had documented significant behavioral modifications in the youth attending and has had every indication it is spreading If we provide contradictory behavior they start to question and throughout the school. challenge our authority to lead. Horses respect the stringent outline of the hierarchy. The head mare rules the herd and the stallion Changes in participant behavior and teacher comments continue to protects the herd from danger. The head mare and stallion work provide us with data confirming that there is indeed, something together as a team for the safety and strength of the herd. The about the outside of a horse that seems to make a significant entire herd works together to teach their offspring the rules of difference to the inside of a child. survival. In a horse‟s world, team work is expected and respected. Horses respond favorably to positive stimulus even though the consequences are swift and immediate. Horses respect fair Thank you for your time. behavior then crave to be with you. Cordially, Horses are teachers and healers. Horses are the eyes to the unseen. If we (as facilitators) are willing to listen, they can assist us with guiding groups to becoming better individuals. Horses don‟t judge, but they don‟t forget either. They don‟t let you cheat and their feedback is honest and instant. Learning to listen to what Lawrence Gaudry horses have to say is powerful and can sometimes spur the answer to individual change. By including horses in specially designed educational experiences, equine-assisted specialists have greatly multiplied the participant‟s rate of success to self discovery. How? Horses can magnify and mirror an individual‟s problem immediately, and provide the skilled facilitator with an opportunity to identify an individual‟s character. Horses can‟t over think a participant‟s motive and horses can‟t manipulate their behavior. But by their intuitive nature and innate sensitivity, horses can provide facilitators with a window into the participant‟s personality. As facilitators listen to a horse‟s non-verbal communication, together they have the ability to walk participants through to finding life-altering change.

Through the discovery of how sensitive horses are, how kind and forgiving they can be; we can guide our participants through to becoming better individuals by recognizing those teachable moments, through identifying specific horse behaviors.

Quite simply, equine-assisted learning, works.