Arts And Culture

Music Program

The Rossbrook House Music Program is a creative forum for youth in our community. Young people can express themselves by:

  • Playing guitar, drums, and keyboards
  • Singing
  • Recording music tracks

The music program operates on Sunday afternoon and Monday evening. It is led by experienced, contracted music instructors.

Click here for more about the Music Program.

Ojibwe Language Program

Participants of all ages are invited to take part in Ojibwe Language classes.

  • Children and youth are learning to speak Ojibwe with support from the Winnipeg Labour Council.

Beading Classes and Indigenous Arts

Participants of all ages are learning how to bead.

  • A traditional beading class that includes cultural teachings.
  • The participants understand that their work will carry their energy, so they are reminded to be mindful of their feelings while beading.

Children and youth are creating a variety of arts and crafts during a weekly Indigenous Arts program.

  • They are creating mosaic tiles, clay animals and more!

Teachings with Knowledge Keepers and Indigenous Way of Life Coordinator

  • Sharing Circles and Restorative Practices
  • Traditional Parenting Practices
  • Land-Based Learning and Experiences
  • Inviting Knowledge Keepers for Teachings
  • Medicine Harvesting

Seven Sacred Teachings

Rossbrook House has incorporated aspects of Indigenous perspectives in our programming for years. Today, a large percentage of our staff and participants are of Indigenous heritage therefore, we must look at our programming through an Indigenous lens to align with Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action.

Love- Eagle

Respect- Buffalo

Bear- Courage

Sabe- Honesty

Wisdom- Beaver

Wolf- Humility

Turtle- Truth

The 7 Teachings are incorporated into many programs.

Pow Wow Program

Each spring in preparation for our annual Pow Wow there are weekly traditional dance practices. Students from the off-campus schools as well as interested children and youth who come to Rossbrook House get instructions on Pow Wow dance as well as cultural teachings from qualified teachers.

It all comes together for our annual May Pow Wow on the Freight House Field off Ross Avenue.

 

“I have been coming to Rossbrook House for 7 years. I come every day right after school. I’m part of the intermediate Leadership program and White Sash. I like playing video games, the staff, and you make friends for life.”

-Jordan, age 13

 

White Sash Keepers

Culturally focused activities for youth

The White Sash Keepers program provides weekly activities, cultural teachings and opportunities for service work for boys and girls ages 12 to 18.  As well as fostering positive cultural identity, a greater sense of belonging, and personal self-esteem, the program activities aim to lower barriers to employment for Indigenous Youth.

A group of 8 children and youth  (4 male ‘white sash’ and 4 female ‘keepers’) participate in 12-week sessions that include planning meetings, volunteer work, and fun outings. A cultural component is included.