Junior Spirit Builders

If you are between 12 and 16 years old and want to contribute to building a better world, the Junior Spirit Builder program might be right for you!

In this program, you will participate in a week-long day camp in Thunder Bay, where you will learn new skills that will assist you in completing a volunteer experience focused on supporting Indigenous cultural resurgence. Participation is free and open to everyone. Sign up here today!

Junior Spirit Builder Interest Form

What happens at the day camps?

We have amazing stuff planned! There are crafts, a trip out to pick medicines, games, songs, and learning about Anishinaabe culture. The week finishes with a mini-powwow where parents and families can join in.

Where is this happening?

We have space at Confederation College for the day camps. There will be inside and outside activities. If you are from outside of Thunder Bay, accomodations for the participant and a chaperone may be able to be arranged.

Is there a cost?

There is absolutely NO COST to participants or families. This is funded by Canada Service Corps, a federal government program.

What about transportation and meals?

There will be lots of food at the camps, including a full lunch every day. If participants need transportation to Confederation College for the day camps, we will be operating some vans that can take care of you!

Do you have to be from a Nokiiwin community? Do you have to be Indigenous?

This program is for ANYONE aged 12-16. While we make an effort to ensure people from Nokiiwin communities have the opportunity to participate, the program is intended to bring Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth together to learn and have fun.

What happens after the day camps?

The camps are just the start of being a Junior Spirit Builder. Using the skills and knowledge they have learned, Junior Spirit Builders are supported in volunteering in ways that support kindness and Indigenous culture. Participants who complete 120 hours by March 31, 2027 (including their time in the camp) receive a special acknowledgement from the government.

Can this help me get my high school volunteer hours?

Yes! Most of the volunteer hours you complete as a Junior Spirit Builder can ALSO count towards your high school hours, as long as you have graduated from Grade 8.

How do I get more information?

The easiest way is to just fill in the interest form linked above. That will take you to our secure portal, where you can enter your basic information, and then someone from Nokiiwin will reach out. Alternatively you can contact Alyssa at alyssa.belanger@nokiiwin.com or by calling 807-627-6812.