The Seven Grandfather Teachings
The Seven Grandfather Teachings guide how we welcome people, provide care, make decisions and build relationships. Each teaching supports the others; together they help us work with compassion, accountability and cultural respect.
Wisdom — Nbwaakaawin
To cherish knowledge is to know wisdom. We listen carefully, value lived experience and Indigenous knowledge, and use what we learn to make thoughtful decisions that support wellness.
Love — Zaagidwin
To know love is to know peace. We demonstrate love through kindness, patience and compassionate care, creating a place where every person can feel supported and safe.
Respect — Mnaadendmowin
To honour all of creation is to have respect. We honour each person’s dignity, choices, culture, privacy and relationships while recognizing our responsibility to community and the land.
Bravery — Aakedhewin
To face the foe with integrity. We find the courage to speak up, seek help, address difficult circumstances and stand beside people throughout their healing journey.
Honesty — Gwekwaadziwin
Honesty in facing a situation is to be brave. We communicate openly, take responsibility for our actions and provide clear information so clients and families can make informed choices.
Humility — Dbaadendiziwin
To know yourself as a sacred part of creation. We recognize that no one person holds all knowledge. We remain willing to listen, learn, collaborate and ask for guidance.
Truth — Debwewin
To know all of these things is to know truth. We bring the teachings together in our words and actions and strive to be consistent, trustworthy and accountable in the care we provide.
Living the Teachings
These teachings are more than words displayed in our building or on our website. They shape our relationships with clients, families, communities, partners and one another, and they remind us to carry cultural safety and whole-person wellness into every service.