(File photo/meadowlakeNOW Staff)

By Elliott Knopp

Winter Camp

Flying Dust First Nation offering youth winter camp experiences

Jan 13, 2022 | 5:48 PM

Flying Dust First Nation is hosting a winter camp for youth in the community later in the season.

Twenty youths between the ages of 10 and 18 will have the opportunity to participate in a 3-day camping trip where they will learn survival skills and join in on seasonal recreational activities. The event had previously been an annual occurrence, but was shut down last year as part of the community’s response to COVID-19.

In an interview with meadowlakeNOW, youth coordinator Ashley Roy explained she has made several notable changes to the program this time around.

“I wanted to do the best I could to bring in what the youth have shared with me in the past,” she said.

“We gave them a survey and we had questions for them about what they wanted for the next camp, and unfortunately, it didn’t happen last year because of COVID. This year, we’re going ahead with it.”

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As a direct result of the feedback, the previously one-day camping trip was extended to three days, which will allow the group to participate in more activities, provide them with more free time outdoors and make the event feel less regimented.

Those in attendance will have the opportunity to engage in ice fishing, setting up fishing nets, riding dog sleds and several other events. One of the events Roy said is of high importance is making bannock with elders.

“While we’re making the bannock, they’re telling us stories of what they went through when they were their age, and just having that connection with the Elders is very important,” Roy explained.

Along with the time shared with Elders, Roy stated the activities included in the trip are important in keeping alive traditions and providing the youth with valuable life skills.

“They can take on this learning while they’re young, and then have this skill for them when anything ever happens. When they’re out camping with their families or helping their friends, they’ll have the skills with them for the rest of their lives.”

The camp is scheduled to take place from Feb. 22–25. Anyone interested in enrolling in the camp is asked to reach out to Ashley Roy via Facebook to determine availability.

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elliott.knopp@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @ElliottKnopp