Whiskeyjack acknowledges Bent Arrow’s work for homelessness

Cheryl Whiskeyjack may have been the lone recipient for the Outstanding Service for the Aboriginal Community award, but it was team effort that helped her earn it.
“I was very shocked and humbled when they called my name,” said Whiskeyjack, executive director for Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society.

Whiskeyjack and her staff have committed themselves to creating an array of individual and family-based programs for their clients. Working towards ending homelessness is one of those commitments.

“I was at the award banquet to accept on behalf of our organization, but then they called me.  However, it is important to recognize the incredible talent, work and dedication of our staff,” said Whiskeyjack, in accepting the 2011 Recognizing Outstanding Organizations and People in Housing.

Whiskeyjack was nominated by Julian Daly, executive director for Boyle Street Community Services.
“Cheryl Whiskeyjack was instrumental in programs offered and was a role model and leader in our community,” said Alex Abboud, communications manager for Homeward Trust Edmonton. “She met all the criteria, which included being a leader, going above and beyond immediate job requirements, volunteering in community and creating an inclusive lasting impact for individuals and families, among others.”

“Community partnerships is what allows us to work together in an attempt to provide positive community services and end homelessness in our community,” said Whiskeyjack.

One example of a positive relationship Bent Arrow has struck is with the Edmonton Police Service. It’s a two-way partnership that has been instrumental in focusing on the issues that exist in the community.
“It is one thing for us to work with other organizations and people, but another thing for others to want to work with our organization, so we must acknowledge our community partners for relationships that have been built,” said Whiskeyjack.

Other programs offered by Bent Arrow include Sacred Circle Family Intervention, Healthy Families Home Visitation, Coyote Kids and Pride, assisting at Project Homeless Connect, employment programming, parenting programs, Aboriginal Parent Link Centre; Health promotion work, and a number of cultural focused programs.

Other  ROOPH awards winners were Hope Hunter (Larry Shaben Award for Outstanding Service in the Housing Sector), Boardwalk Rental Communities (Partnerships for Success), ArtsHub118 (Excellence in Building Design), Orest Myckan (Exceptional Volunteerism in the Housing Sector – Individual) and No Room in the Inn (Exceptional Volunteerism in the Housing Sector – Group).

“It is important for the community to know of the positive work that happens in Edmonton.  As well, to not only recognize the challenges associated with community programming, but to celebrate it,” said Abboud.

Homeward Trust is a community-based housing organization that provides leadership and resources towards ending homelessness in Edmonton. The organization leads initiatives and programs, engages community stakeholders and partners, conducts research, creates awareness and funds housing and support projects.