Program Ideas
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to supporting Indigenous boys and young men. Communities and organizations are leading powerful programs that draw on culture, relationships, lived experience, and community strengths to promote healing, resilience, and wellbeing.
As you explore these examples, we invite you to reflect on what could be adapted, expanded, or reimagined to support the boys and young men in your own community.
Men’s Circles – Indigenous Sharing Circles & Community Groups
Fraser River Indigenous Society (FRIS)
FRIS's Men's Circle provides a culturally safe and supportive space where Indigenous men and those that self-identify as a male can connect, share experiences, and strengthen their well-being through cultural teachings, traditional practices, and peer support. The circle fosters healing, belonging, and community connection while drawing on individual strengths, lived experiences, and Indigenous ways of knowing. By building supportive relationships and cultural identity, the program helps reduce isolation and strengthen resilience for individuals, families, and communities.
Dudes Club Society
A community-led Indigenous men's wellness movement started in BC. Focuses on brotherhood, cultural safety, peer support, health promotion, land-based activities and rebuilding purpose through regular men's gatherings.
Indigenous Boys Matter Too (IBMT)
Creating Hope Society of Alberta
Indigenous Boys Matter Too (IBMT) uses culturally grounded, strengths-based practices to support Indigenous boys and young men. Through cultural teachings, ceremony, sharing circles, mentorship, and creative expression, participants strengthen their identity, resilience, and leadership skills while exploring healthy Indigenous masculinity. The program also integrates suicide prevention supports and emphasizes kinship, belonging, and community connection to promote holistic wellness and healing.
Indigenous Men’s Alliance
The Indigenous Men’s Alliance (IMA) creates culturally safe spaces where Indigenous men can strengthen their identities, build supportive relationships, and improve their mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Through culturally appropriate programs, peer connection, and shared experiences, the Alliance promotes healing, healthy masculinity, leadership, and community empowerment. Its strengths-based approach encourages personal growth while fostering resilience, belonging, and positive community engagement.
Mino-Pimatiziiwin – Men’s Healthy Living Program (MHLP)
Aboriginal Health & Wellness Centre of Winnipeg
The focus of the Men’s Healthy Living Program (MHLP) is to provide services to Indigenous men who are wanting to make positive lifestyle changes as role models within the family unit and as agents of change within the community.
MHLP provides a variety of services, such as advocacy, support, counselling, as well as access to a Cultural Advisor, resources, and community services.
Men and Boys Are Part of the Solution
Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak
This Indigenous-led initiative engages First Nations men and boys in preventing gender-based violence through land-based cultural programming, healing, and education. Participants strengthen healthy relationships, reclaim traditional roles, and develop leadership skills while exploring the impacts of violence and colonialism. The initiative emphasizes cultural identity, accountability, and community well-being as key components of violence prevention and holistic healing.
Residential Treatment Program
Leading Thunderbird Lodge
Leading Thunderbird Lodge provides a 16 week culturally based residential treatment program for First Nations and Inuit male youth from across Canada who are between 12-17 years. The holistic treatment program provides personal development in the four areas of self; spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Leading Thunderbird Lodge is an accredited facility with the Canadian Accreditation Council. The Lodge is funded through Health Canada’s NNADAP/YSAP programs.