Elders – British Columbia

Elder Councils and Gathering Places

B.C. Elders Communication Center Society

The purpose of this Center is to provide a central communication office for Aboriginal Elders, their family and support workers in B.C.

Elders Council

The Nicola Valley Institute of Technology has initiated an Elders' Council that has representation from the Thompson and Okanagan people. The Elders are giving their wisdom and experience to the work of the Council to help us define the teachings of identity.

Source: Nicola Valley Institute of Technology

For Elders

Programs and services available for elders at the Kla-how-eya Aboriginal Centre of SACS.

Source: Kla-how-eya Aboriginal Centre of SACS

Prince George Métis Elders Society

Enables the Elders to deal with issues that impact their daily lives and to educate the Métis people and the community on "What it means to be Métis".

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Health and Social Services

Activities, Culture and Crafts

The culturally based treatment program assists the client in learning to use first Nations culture and spirituality as a major tool to maintain sobriety.

Source: Round Lake Treatment Centre

Ama Transition House

This is a first-stage transition house for women age 55 and older who are impacted by violence and/or abuse.

Source: Atira Women's Resource Society

Architecture for Elder Health in Remote British Columbia: A Nisga'a-Led Research (PDF)

This research explores how housing and architecture influence the health and well-being of First Nations Elders in remote British Columbian communities.

Source: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)

Circle of Wellness Elder's Program

Focuses on the emotional, spiritual, mental and physical health of Seniors and Elders aged 55 and over in Houston and surrounding area.

Source: Houston Friendship Centre Society

Elders Transportation Assistance Program

Supports Elders who want to share and celebrate Aboriginal culture and oral traditions.

Source: BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres

Senior Housing

Offers information about the dwellings for Aboriginal senior citizens operated by VNHS.

Source: Vancouver Native Housing Society

Stó:lō Elders Lodge

This assisted living facility is designed to showcase the unique First Nation heritage and culture, and has 15 assisted living suites for seniors and persons with disabilities.

Source: Stó:lô Nation

Sun Circle Elder Care Program

This three-month program aims to improve the life of the Elders in a non-intrusive and respectful way.

Source: Vancouver Native Housing Society

Youth and Elder Connection – "Bridging the Generations" Program

An intergenerational initiative designed to enhance the spiritual, mental, emotional and physical health and well being of urban aboriginal youth and elders.

Source: Vancouver Native Housing Society

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Notable Elders

Baker, Chief Simon

This page features Chief Simon Baker, an important cultural figure in British Columbia, recipient in 2000 of National Aboriginal Achievement Award in the Heritage and Spirituality category.

Source: Museum of Anthropology

Lucas, Chief Simon

Introduces Chief Simon Lucas, who devoted his life to the cause of fishery conservation and who was President for the Aboriginal Council of BC for six years.

Source: BC Aboriginal Network on Disability Society

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Traditional Knowledge

Halkomelem Ethnobiology

Provides a wealth of information regarding the plants and animals of south western British Columbia, home of the Halkomelem people, as well as on the Halkomelem language and dialects.

Our Elders – First Nations Studies

Describes the important role of elders as they provide counselling, support, and guidance to all students in the program.

Source: Vancouver Island University

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