Indigenous guide emphasizes connection to communities
As we continue to explore Ranch Ehrlo’s Indigenous Engagement Guide further we reflect on how community connection can deepen cultural competency, strengthen programs, and further support the therapeutic experience for participants.
When we talk about communities, we refer not only to physical locations but also to the shared identity, culture, and values of the people within them
“When the agency engages directly with communities, a deeper appreciation of Indigenous histories, knowledge, ways of knowing, and worldviews is developed,” explained Jamie Lerat, Indigenous advisor. “Having a strong cultural competency within the agency will help ignite a cultural shift in thinking. For Ranch Ehrlo, these community partnerships demonstrate an active commitment to truth and reconciliation by way of listening, learning, and collaborating that centre Indigenous voices and experiences.”
We reflect on the communities that we have created beautiful relationships with —places like Piapot First Nation, which warmly welcomes our participants and staff, and groups such as the Kasohkowew Child Wellness Society, which have collaborated with our family treatment programs. We welcome those who gather at our annual powwow and appreciate the elders, kohkhums, and knowledge keepers who spend time teaching, guiding, and supporting the youth.
Engaging with Indigenous communities means more than building relationships—it means actively collaborating and creating opportunities that contribute to the growth and success of them. Through these efforts, we can move the needle on economic reconciliation, supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship and investing in Indigenous-owned businesses.
While it can be a challenge to always identify which companies are Indigenous-owned, we are proud to have ongoing relationships with two businesses that have self-declared as being majority Indigenous owned: Atlas Sanitary Sewer Services, a regular service provider, and Pro-Metal, which has contributed to several projects including the mâmawi-pimohtêtân pathway at our Pilot Butte campus.
Our commitment to providing opportunities to Indigenous communities also extends to our events. We invite diverse communities to participate in our annual powwow and contract local Indigenous-owned businesses when possible.
“Choosing an Indigenous-owned company for our water bottle order was a meaningful decision by our powwow committee,” said Kayla McKee, communications liaison. “It’s one small but impactful way we can support Indigenous entrepreneurship and ensure the benefits of our event extend further into the communities we serve and celebrate. We’re proud to uplift Indigenous businesses in a way that reflects the spirit and values of the powwow.”
These community connections not only enrich our own programming, but they foster trust and mutual learning. When we grow our cultural competency within staff and participants through genuine relationships our communities can grow stronger, healthier, and more united.