Groups tries to help at Max

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A small group, which includes mothers, girlfriends, Native Elders and friends gathered to discuss ways to help the Native Brotherhood People's Society, of Edmonton Institution.

Since a disturbance at the institution in January, the participation of volunteers has dropped somewhat, and the Brotherhood executive is looking for ways to attract volunteers to come to their Thursday night meetings. Various committees were set up to co-ordinate such fund raising activities as tee shirt sales, of which the Native Brotherhood will supply the funds to buy.

The volunteer support group hopes to look at the need of the Native Brotherhood members, as expressed by them, and find ways to meet their needs. One of the major concerns at the meeting was the lack of volunteers attending Native Brotherhood meetings, and the need for the members to have some outside contacts. It was stated that the majority of the Native population at Edmonton Institute were from other provinces and therefore, had no visitors and very little contact with the outside world. During a recent trip through Edmonton to visit prisoners at Edmonton Institute, respected Ontario Elder, Art Solomon, stated, "One of the most important things a prisoner needs is that of companionship of the opposite sex, and someone to share the burden of pain that a prisoner experiences inside."

Some of the activities volunteers are needed for include: volleyball, softball, slow pitch, floor hockey, and other sporting activities. It was also expressed that the Native Brotherhood needs a hide to make crafts. The hide would have to be donated as they don't have much money in the Native Brotherhood account. There is also a need to find an outlet at which the arts and crafts that the Brotherhood members make can be sold.

The Native Brotherhood is planning to host a powwow in the future, and hopes to garner outside support for the events, (i.e. dancers, material for dance costumes, etc.)

Another meeting for the Brotherhood volunteer support group is set for May 6, at 7:00 p.m.. at Our House, 10502 - 98 Street, Edmonton. If you need more information on the Support group, or Native Brotherhood activities you may call me at 455-2700, or Ron at 421-4726 during the day, or you cay call Alicia in the evening at 433-3561.