Staff
A group of adults and youth participating in this year’s Walk for Good Life stopped in Couchiching First Nation yesterday for lunch before making their way to Rainy River First Nations to spend the night.
“It’s been a really awesome couple of days,” enthused Teresa Hazel, CEO of the Good Life for Young People foundation (Oshki Aa-yaa’aag Mino Bimaadiziiwin).
Focused this year on “Empowering Youth by Celebrating their Gifts,” the 17 core walkers began their 500-km journey Monday at Eagle Lake First Nation.
They are walking fully cirlce across the Treaty #3 territory, stopping and camping at many communities along the way.
“Elder Phillip Gardner of Eagle Lake spoke to the youth and offered up teachings and his experiences,” Hazel noted. “It was wonderful to see the youth connecting with each other and learning.”
She added the week-long adventure is more than just a walk, it’s a cultural experience—a journey of self-discovery and accomplishment.
“We’re walking for a good life,” added youth coordinator, Larissa Desrosiers. “I’m having so much fun. It’s been really good walking and laughing. I’m excited for the rest of the week.”
Today, the group was headed up Highway 71 to Onigaming First Nation and then continuing on to Rushing River tomorrow.
On Saturday, the walkers will make their way to the Trans-Canada Highway and then head east to Blue Lake Provincial Park.
They’ll make the final leg of walk along Trans-Canada back to Eagle Lake First Nation on Sunday, where a “welcome home” fish fry and community gathering will be held at 1 p.m.
Good Life For Young People is a non-profit corporation whose mission is to bring to life the dreams and aspirations of aboriginal youth through confidence building and culturally-affirming activities.
