New Wellness Hub Emerges from Former Correctional Facility
Salt River First Nation in the Northwest Territories advances community wellness by converting a former men’s correctional center into a vibrant healing space. Opened on November 3, the facility now offers sharing circles, workshops, and land-based programs deeply rooted in cultural traditions and personal experiences. Community leaders view this transformation as the start of expanded, self-directed wellness initiatives.
Indigenous Hip-Hop Artist Leads ‘Tradition over Addiction’ Workshop
The center recently hosted Paul Sawan, an Indigenous hip-hop artist known as K.A.S.P.—Keeping Alive Stories for the People—for a three-day workshop titled “Tradition over Addiction.” Participants explore reclaiming their lives, breaking destructive cycles, and rebuilding through cultural practices, sobriety, and actionable strategies for change.
K.A.S.P. embarked on his sobriety journey in 2009, channeling his recovery into a mission to support others. His teachings emphasize self-worth and personal accountability as essential first steps toward healing. Many Indigenous communities continue to grapple with intergenerational impacts of substance abuse, alcohol, gangs, and violence stemming from residential schools.
“Your story matters, and who you are makes a difference. You have greatness in you if you decide to embrace it,” K.A.S.P. stated. “It all starts with sobriety. It all starts with culture. It all starts with tradition.”
After years of touring his program, K.A.S.P. observes growing momentum toward sobriety and cultural reconnection across generations. “Just to see people getting sober, especially our young people, that’s huge,” he said. “And it makes my heart smile. It just shows that I’m living my purpose.” He highlights profound moments when elders, adults, and youth connect emotionally and spiritually.
Men’s Wellness Coordinator Builds Local Support Networks
Chris Waniandy, Salt River’s men’s health and wellness coordinator and six years sober, integrates the workshop into wider efforts to foster open dialogue. Holding a recent diploma in addictions and community health, he prioritizes practical, home-based resources to ease access to help.
“People tend to want to talk to people with lived experience,” Waniandy said. “I’ve lost way too many people to addiction, suicide. And you know, if I can help one person, that’s more than enough.”
Waniandy identifies a critical gap in men-specific supports, where stigma often silences discussions of trauma, addiction, and grief. He aims to create safe environments free from isolation.
“I want people to know that they’re cared for, they’re seen, they’re heard,” he added. “Don’t be scared to open up. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’re not a burden. Just reach out before it’s too late.”
Seasoned Coordinator Guides Vulnerable Transitions
Mavis Moberly, wellness coordinator with over 30 years in social services and community healing, oversees the center’s operations. The facility serves as a stable anchor for individuals returning from treatment or awaiting services, offering guidance on housing, resources, and cultural reconnection.
The programs address generational disruptions from residential schools by restoring cultural teachings and empowering personal choices. “I missed out on a lot of teachings I would have had if I’d been raised with my people,” Moberly reflected. “How can we teach our children what we didn’t have? I work with people to figure out what’s missing and how culture can help fill those gaps.”
