For nearly four decades, Red Deer Native Friendship Society has been a cornerstone of support for Indigenous families, youth, elders, and children transitioning to urban life in Red Deer, AB. Founded in 1984, this Aboriginal charitable agency has grown to become an essential community resource, grounded in the spirit of friendship and guided by cultural wisdom and traditional teachings that honor the Treaty 7 Blackfoot and Treaty 6 Cree territories where it operates.
RDNFS serves as a bridge connecting community members to their cultural values and traditional teachings while addressing practical needs that support well-being and successful adjustment to life in Red Deer. The organization's mission centers on building an empowered community through culturally responsive housing, community development, and youth programming that embraces the complete medicine wheel approach to wellness. By providing cultural and spiritual connections to all people—both Indigenous and non-Indigenous—RDNFS nurtures an engaged community while fostering positive relationships and awareness of Indigenous culture throughout Red Deer.
The Society's work extends beyond individual services to systemic community building. Through four core initiatives—capacity building, community and family supports, youth programming, and cultural awareness—RDNFS creates spaces where cultural diversity is understood and respected. The organization offers referrals for housing, food, clothing, education, and employment while extending genuine friendship and advocacy. RDNFS demonstrates deep commitment to its vision of a community without need, where all people have access to healthy, safe belonging and the opportunity to thrive while maintaining connection to Indigenous heritage and wisdom.
Red Deer, Alberta