Building Relationships with Indigenous Communities
For The Salvation Army in Saskatoon, working together with Indigenous communities is not just about collaborating on occasional projects. It is about connection and walking alongside when needs arise.
Captains Derek and Angela Kerr, leaders at the Army’s Saskatoon Temple, have developed these relationships over the past few years through partnerships with Indigenous schools, organizations and local representatives.
“We are open to them telling us in what ways we can assist them. We are not imposing, it’s more like we walk alongside them,” says Captain Derek.
The most significant collaboration has been the organization’s long-standing partnership with the local awâsisak kâ-nîmîhtocik St. Francis School. Each week, The Salvation Army stocks the food pantry and every summer before the start of the academic year, they provide backpacks to students.
“We are open to them telling us in what ways we can assist them.”
This relationship has grown beyond programs. Recently, St. Francis opened a new building and Salvation Army staff were invited to tour the facility.
Representatives of the school also regularly participate and volunteer at Salvation Army events.
“They have supported us at our annual kettle campaign kickoff. Students and their families have also attended our annual trunk or treat event as well as our fall fair,” Captain Derek shares.
Another great partnership has been in times of crisis. During wildfire season, The Salvation Army has worked with Indigenous communities to aid those affected locally by providing meals, Emergency Disaster Services equipment, coordinating evacuations and assisting displaced families.
“Building trust takes time and we’ve worked hard to be present, show up and be available if they need us,” Captain Angela adds.
“We’ve been welcomed in their spaces.”
The organization also has a good relationship with the nearby One Arrow First Nation reserve. Through ongoing engagement with community members and mutual support, Salvation Army staff have been invited to take part in meetings and events.
“We’ve been welcomed in their spaces,” Captain Derek shares. “I had the opportunity to officiate a funeral of an Indigenous woman along with an Elder.”
These connections have allowed both Salvation Army staff and Indigenous community members to learn more about one another.
“It was a very humbling experience to be welcomed,” Captain Angela says. “It is quite beautiful.”
For Captains Derek and Angela, building trust is not about solving problems for communities but about maintaining relationships, listening and working alongside Indigenous partners.
By Juan Romero
