Young Spirits Sharing Circle Society Incorporated
Young Spirits Sharing Circle Society Incorporated
Young Spirits Sharing Circle Society Incorporated is an Indigenous-led, community-based, nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Indigenous children in reconnecting with their culture, identity and community. We acknowledge that we gather in Moose Jaw on Treaty 4 Territory - the traditional lands of the Cree, Saulteaux, Dakota, Nakota and Lakota peoples and the homeland of the Métis. We give thanks to the original caretakers of this land and to the Elders and Knowledge Keepers who continue to guide us.
The organization focuses on children aged 5-11, with priority access to Indigenous children in foster care who often face barriers to cultural connection. Through culturally grounded programming led by Elders, Knowledge Keepers and mentors, Young Spirits Sharing Circle creates safe, inclusive spaces where children can learn, grow and develop a strong sense of identity, belonging and pride as well as beginning their own healing journeys.
Courtesy of King George Elementary School
Courtesy of King George Elementary School
Young Spirits Sharing Circle is a culturally grounded program for Indigenous children aged 5-11 with priority placement for children in foster care. The program will initially be offered as a biweekly gathering. This creates a consistent and accessible entry point for children and caregivers.
Each session is led by Elders, Knowledge Keepers and community facilitators in a trauma-informed and culturally safe environment with a focus on relationship-building, identity and belonging. Land-based teachings will be incorporated throughout the program, recognizing the importance of connection to land in Indigenous culture, learning and healing.The land-based teachings will include specific, guided activities such as:
Medicine walks, where children learn to respectfully identify local plants and their traditional uses.
Seasonal teachings connected to the land (changing seasons, animal teachings, natural cycles)
Outdoor sharing circles in natural settings
Teachings on respect for the land, water and all living things
Sensory-based nature activities to support grounding and emotional regulation
These sessions are guided by Elders and Knowledge Keepers to ensure teachings are shared respectfully and appropriately.
Other activities will include (but not limited to):
Sharing circles (age appropriate)
Traditional crafts
Storytelling
Drum teachings and singing
Dancing
Smudging and other traditional practices
Community Impact
Young Spirits Sharing Circle has a direct and meaningful impact on the Moose Jaw community by addressing the current lack of culturally specific and trauma-informed programming available for our young Indigenous children. By providing consistent, local access to cultural teachings in a safe and supportive environment, the program reduces barriers related to transportation and accessibility while supporting children who may be navigating the impacts of trauma and cultural disconnection.
Incorporating land-based learning also strengthens cultural connections in a way that is holistic and rooted in traditional knowledge systems. These experiences are especially meaningful for children in care as they provide grounding, regulation and a deeper sense of connection to identity and place. The program contributes to reconciliation at a local level by ensuring Indigenous children (as well as their caregivers) in Moose Jaw have opportunities to learn, practice and take pride in their culture in a way that feels safe, empowering and inclusive.
Over time, this initiative supports improved mental wellness, stronger identity development and increased community connection among participating children
Partnerships
Young Spirits Sharing Circle is consistently building and maintaining partnerships with:
Child and Family Services agencies
Elders and Knowledge Keepers
Indigenous community associations
Community Outreach programs
Sasktel
King George Elementary School
Coteau Hills Elementary School