Friendship centre renovated to suit community

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Bright lighting, new paint and an elevator installation are all part of the renovations happening at the Canadian Native Friendship Centre in Edmonton.

"For the last 10 years we wanted to do this and we've finally found the money to do it," said Martha Campiou, president of the centre. The elevator alone cost the centre $175,000. The elevator was installed for the elderly and the physically challenged.

"A lot our Elders found the stairs hard to climb. Now everyone will get to enjoy the facility," said Campiou.

A barrier free washroom has also been installed for physically challenged people. The centre received a grant for the renovations from the provincial and the municipal government. Still, the centre had to cut as many corners as possible. Most of the carpet has been removed from the bottom floor and has been replaced by new flooring that is just in time for a number of activities.

The centre's address may have changed since its inception in 1961, but its mandate hasn't.

"It is here to help the people first," said Campiou. "We offer many community relations services and we plan events that involve the non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal people of the community,"

The centre has moved to different locations in the past, it's present location is at 11205 - 101 Street.

On Saturday, May, 8, the centre will be holding its Mothers Day tea. This event will be co-hosted with the Edmonton Native Senior Centre. The tea will honor the mothers in the community. Plans are underway for a round dance that will honor the fathers in the community on June 18.

On May, 28, there will be a dinner for the completion of the renovations at the centre. It will also be a time to honor the board of trustees, all sponsors, support groups, and lifetime members. Plans for recognizing the centre 38th anniversary are still being discussed. Entertainment will be by the Metis Cultural Dancers and the Edmonton's White Braid Society dance group. On May 29 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. there will be an open house at the centre.

"The public is welcome to tour the newly renovated building and to check out our calendar of events," said Campiou. The centre plans to hold a special event at least once a month.

"The events will have a diverse theme to them. We welcome all people of the community," said Campiou.