Indigenous family services organization seeks funds for youth conference

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — A family service organization serving Indigenous youth in the region is looking for assistance to attend a national conference.

The Nenan Dane Zaa Deh Zona Family Services Society is based in Fort St. John, and since its founding has expanded beyond just child welfare services, according to executive director Derian Young.

“The original intent of our agency was to pursue jurisdiction over child welfare for our region,” said Young. “We work within indigenous child and youth mental health, [working] with Indigenous children and youth in care, Indigenous child development and then we also do advocacy and support for any families at risk.”

Part of the support includes providing participation in First Nations youth events, including the Gathering our Voices event focusing on teenagers aged 14 to 19 years old. 

The gathering is co-hosted by the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC), a Victoria-based organization fostering communication between Friendship Centres, Indigenous-led social service associations across the province.

Young says Nenan Dane Zaa Deh Zona has sent delegates to the event since at least 2018. For some children within the child welfare system, Young says it creates a cultural outlet for Indigenous youth.

“There’s usually about 3,000 people that attend every year,” said Young. “[The kids] make connections there. They made friends. They get connected to career opportunities.”

“It is kind of engaging with culture, engaging with potential for the future opportunities.”

However, Young says her organization will not receive the federal funding that has sent children in previous years, and is looking to the community for donations for youth sponsored by Nenan Dane Zaa Deh Zona to attend. 

So far, $6,000 of the goal of $24,000 has been raised, with contributions coming from several companies with a local presence, including Kalmar Construction, Pacific Canbriam Energy, Surerus Energy and Tourmaline Oil.

“We’re really eager to take our kids again [in 2026,]” said Young. “They are definitely eager to go.”

To help, contact Nenan Dane Zaa Deh Zona at admin@nenan.ca or call the offices at 250-787-2151. 

More information about Nenan Zaa Deh Zona is available at its Facebook page or website.