The Wanaki Center is a treatment facility for all First Nations and Inuit adults seeking to heal from alcohol and substance addiction. The center is located in the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg community next to the town of Maniwaki, Quebec (Outaouais Region).
The center first opened its doors in 1991 with the mission to provide programming for substance abuse and to promote the physical, mental, spiritual and emotional well-being of the clients. The wellness services are provided over a 4 week period in French and English on a rotational basis.
The Center is governed by an independent Board of Directors consisting of one appointed member from each of the nine Algonquin First Nation communities of Western Quebec.
About
US
Over the years, Wanaki has continuously strived to be recognized as one of the leading treatment centers in the region of Quebec and Canada. From 1991 to 1997 we managed our center under an annual contribution agreement with the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch of Health Canada’s National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program (NNADAP).
Since 1997, we entered into a new agreement process with Health Canada giving our center the full responsibility of our treatment program services and the financial flexibility to administer and manage its operations.
Vision
« Empowering First Nations and Inuit Peoples
to live a balanced lifestyle. »
mission
« The Wanaki Center is a specialized holistic service provider that promotes wellness through a quality,
safe and culturally based program as a part of the continuum of care to support First Nations and Inuit Peoples to overcome addictions. »
Philosophy
vision
We believe that individuals can begin a wellness journey by demonstrating a willingness to initiate sobriety and a strong commitment to a healthy new lifestyle.
Program Goal: To assist in achieving a healthy, new life, free from all dependence to alcohol and substances.
feelings
We believe it is necessary to help ourselves and others grow through our relationships.
Program Goal: To develop self-confidence, build upon strengths and foster a positive self-image.
thinking
We believe that enriching coping mechanisms and behaviours is necessary and requires a commitment.
Program Goal: Share information on alcohol and substance abuse and provide alternative coping mechanisms for life's challenges.
doing
We believe the reality of a good and healthy life is an ongoing journey to wellness.
Program Goal: To assist in the successful integration of the individual back into the community.
Board of Directors
The Wanaki Center is governed by a Board of Directors. The members are appointed by their respective Band Councils through a Band Council Resolution for a term of office determined by each Band Council.
Only the 9 Algonquin Communities of Western Quebec are allowed to appoint one member to the Board of Directors. At the present time, we have the 9 communities represented:
Meet The Board of Directors
Madeleine Paul
President
Kebaowek First Nation
Robin Decontie
Vice-President
Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg
Sharon Hunter
Member
Long Point First Nation
Jessie Bond
Member
Wolf Lake First Nation
Robert Penosway
Member
Kitcisakik First Nation
Pauline Kistabish
Member
Pikogan First Nation
Chief Casey Ratt
Member
Rapid Lake First Nation
Lucien Wabanonik
Member
Lac Simon First Nation
Mike Beaupre
Member
Timiskaming First Nation