How many times, as Rotarians and Canadians, have we heard the comment; “(We) help with water projects all over the world, why do we still have clean water issues in Canada” and then, “what can we do to assist First Nation people who are dealing with clean water issues?” The how and why of clean water issues in Canada is a complex and deeply frustrating issue for all Canadians and a life-threatening issue to affected Indigenous communities. So, what can we, as concerned Canadians and Rotarians, do?
After much research and discussion, a group of District 7080 and 7090 Rotary Clubs worked together and applied for a Global Grant to be hosted in Canada, with an International partner in Buffalo. In September 2020 word came from Rotary International that a Global Grant of $80,000USD ($115,000CAD) was awarded to the cluster of Guelph Rotary Clubs, Oakville, Brampton and Toronto as signatories for partnership with the Water First internship program. Water First has developed a 15 month internship training program for young Indigenous men and women. The program offers participants customized skills, training and tutoring to obtain certifications in drinking water treatment and environmental water quality monitoring.
On December 3rd, 2020, Water First officially announced their partnership with The Waabnoong Bemjiwang Association of First Nations (WBAFN), a tribal council with six member First Nations in northern Ontario, to deliver a drinking water treatment and environmental water science internship program for young Indigenous adults. Approximately 12 interns will be recruited from six participating First Nations communities across the tribal council’s region to pursue Operator in Training (OIT) and Water Quality Analyst (WQA) certifications. Water First, after facilitating the WBAFN approval, will assist in the intern selection process and manage the 15-month training program. In this partnership, our global grant money will be used to purchase necessary equipment and provide bursaries on behalf of the interns. The in classroom (zoom) teaching will begin in May 2021. Read more ...
For further information you may contact Dianne Dance.