Native American Community in Canada > Ontario

Discover and connect with the vibrant Native American community in Canada > Ontario. Browse qualified professionals offering expert services, explore community-owned businesses and nonprofit organizations, join cultural events and celebrations, and find career opportunities with diversity-friendly employers. Stay connected with everything your community has to offer in one place.

Ontario Native Womenâ€™s Association

Founded in 1971, the Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) serves Fort William First Nation, ON and Indigenous communities throughout Ontario as a beacon of empowerment and support for Indigenous women and their families. At its core, ONWA celebrates and honors the safety, healing, and leadership of Indigenous women and girls as they reclaim their roles as matriarchs within families and communities, both locally and internationally. ONWA's mission centers on four foundational principles: RECLAIM Indigenous women's inherent leadership roles, RESTORE their identity and rights beyond jurisdictional boundaries, RECONCILE relationships to ensure safety regardless of location, and RECOGNIZE Indigenous women as the medicine needed to heal families and communities. The organization operates with a distinctive circular model that places Indigenous women at the center, reflecting the interconnectedness and shared responsibility of all team members working toward a unified vision. With inclusive practices welcoming all self-identifying Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people, ONWA addresses systemic barriers through culturally grounded services. The organization's work spans from direct community support to provincial advocacy, ensuring Indigenous women have access to justice, education, health services, and economic opportunities. By combining traditional Indigenous wisdom with contemporary programming, ONWA insists that all women, regardless of tribal heritage, can live their best lives while contributing to the preservation and celebration of Indigenous culture, identity, and heritage across Ontario.

Fort William First Nation, Ontario

Thunderbird Friendship Centre

The Thunderbird Friendship Centre represents a long-standing commitment to community-driven service in Geraldton, Ontario, with roots extending back to 1967. Established as a community-managed organization governed by an elected Board of Directors, this centre embodies principles of self-determination and democratic leadership. Since its formal incorporation in 1971 and joining the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres in 1990, Thunderbird has grown into a trusted resource that prioritizes creating safe, inclusive environments where individuals feel heard and valued. The organization's expansion to Longlac in 2018 demonstrates their dedication to extending support throughout the region. Operating with seven foundational values—wisdom, humility, love, respect, bravery, honesty, and truth—Thunderbird Friendship Centre in Geraldton serves as more than a service provider; it's a community hub dedicated to building meaningful connections and relationships. Their approach centers on understanding client needs with curiosity and compassion rather than judgment, fostering an atmosphere of genuine care. Through partnerships developed over decades, Thunderbird has woven itself into the fabric of the Geraldton and surrounding communities, offering not just programs but a sense of belonging and community support rooted in respect and transparency.

Geraldton, Ontario

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Timmins Native Friendship Centre

Rooted in a vision of community unity and belonging, the Timmins Native Friendship Centre has been a cornerstone of support for Indigenous peoples in Timmins, ON since 1974. Born from the dedication of a small group of community members who recognized the challenges faced by First Nations individuals relocating to the city for employment and education, the Centre transformed a simple dream into a thriving institution. The founders understood that students arriving from surrounding reserves needed a positive, culturally safe environment to succeed academically and personally, and this foundational commitment continues to guide the organization today. Over nearly five decades, the Centre has evolved into a trusted bridge of understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, embodying a philosophy of inclusion that welcomes all who seek assistance. The Centre's work reflects deep respect for cultural heritage and spiritual traditions, creating a place of re-discovery where individuals can learn healthy ways of living while maintaining connection to their identity. By providing advocacy, direct services, and community programming rooted in understanding and dedication, the Timmins Native Friendship Centre demonstrates unwavering commitment to improving lives and fostering positive change. The organization's vision extends beyond service delivery to creating a culturally safe environment that generates genuine belonging and unity throughout the Timmins basin, honoring the resilience and strength of the Indigenous community.

Timmins, Ontario

Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre

Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre stands as a vibrant, autonomous cultural agency dedicated to serving Toronto, ON's Indigenous community with unwavering commitment to their well-being and spiritual growth. Founded on principles of cultural preservation and community empowerment, the organization's mission encompasses promoting Aboriginal employment in arts, culture, education, and technology while utilizing traditional teachings and language as the foundation for all work undertaken. The Centre demonstrates deep investment in Toronto's Indigenous future through targeted support for youth, enhanced services for elders, and direct programming addressing housing, shelter, and material needs. Operating within Toronto's broader network of Aboriginal service providers, Council Fire engages with diverse populations—including newcomers and the city's general public—through celebrated community events like the Indigenous Legacy Gathering and Youth Gathering, which showcase the rich diversity of Indigenous cultures through workshops, presentations, dance, film, and music. The organization's approach reflects a holistic philosophy grounded in natural healing relationships with Mother Earth and a commitment to celebrating life across all community members. With team members representing various First Nations and diverse international backgrounds, Toronto Council Fire builds human, cultural, and academic capacity while fostering partnerships with people of all backgrounds. Client testimonials consistently highlight the Centre's role as a spiritually positive, accepting place of help and healing, where staff members provide strength, guidance, and transformative support to individuals rebuilding their lives within the Toronto community.

Toronto, Ontario

United Native Friendship Centre

For over fifty years, the United Native Friendship Centre has been a cornerstone of community support in Fort Frances, ON, dedicated to enhancing the lives of both Native and non-Native residents. Born from a 1971 community vision and officially established in 1973, the Centre was created through collaborative efforts of professional business leaders, community resources, and First Nations representatives who recognized the need for culturally-grounded services. What began as a single concept with two programs has grown into a thriving organization that reflects decades of community effort, outstanding staff commitment, and visionary Board leadership. The Centre's mission centers on building bridges of understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people while providing specialized services that honor cultural identity and community values. Operating with the guidance of respected Elders who contribute cultural and spiritual teachings, the organization has expanded to serve the Fort Frances community from two main facilities, with a third location dedicated to early childhood programming. The Centre's growth demonstrates its deep roots in the community and the trust residents place in its services. Members and community partners recognize the organization as more than a service provider—it represents a commitment to Indigenous self-determination, cultural preservation, and holistic community wellbeing. The United Native Friendship Centre's fifty-year milestone in 2021 celebrated not just organizational success, but the collective achievement of a community working together to support one another's growth and development.

Fort Frances, Ontario

Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres

Since its establishment in 1976, the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres (OFIFC) has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for Indigenous people living in urban environments across Ontario. Operating from Toronto, ON, OFIFC represents the collective voice of 31 Friendship Centres located in cities and towns throughout the province, creating safe spaces where community members can gather, connect with one another, and access culturally-based services rooted in traditional teachings. At the heart of OFIFC's mission is a commitment to restoring Indigenous humanity and supporting self-determined activities that respect Indigenous cultural distinctiveness while encouraging meaningful participation in Canadian society. The organization evolved significantly in 2013, when members voted to change from the Ontario Federation Indian Friendship Centres to the current name, reflecting a deeper understanding of Indigenous identity and colonial history. This transformation extended to commissioning a new logo designed by Cree Métis artist Guy Freeman, incorporating powerful symbols including the turtle representing Turtle Island, an eagle feather, a traditional lodge, and thirteen Grandmother Moon teachings. OFIFC's long history of expertise in providing culture-based services has resulted in meaningful improvements across Friendship Centre communities. Through programs emphasizing cultural restoration, youth development, storytelling, and traditional practices, OFIFC continues to strengthen urban Indigenous identity and community resilience throughout Ontario.

Toronto, Ontario

Odawa Native Friendship Centre

For over five decades, the Odawa Native Friendship Centre has served as a cornerstone of Indigenous community life in Ottawa, Ontario, grounded in a mission to enhance quality of life while honoring ancestral traditions. Founded in August 1975, this non-profit organization emerged from a vision to maintain community connection, foster self-help and development, and preserve traditional teachings from elders—values that remain central to its identity today. The centre's evolution reflects the growing Aboriginal population in the Ottawa-Carleton Region, with dedicated staff, volunteers, and board members continuously adapting services to meet emerging community needs. At its heart, Odawa embodies a thriving and resilient community ethos, where cultural pride and mutual support intersect. The organization's commitment extends beyond service provision to encompass the transmission of Indigenous wisdom and the strengthening of social bonds across generations. Community members gather for activities like Wednesday evening gatherings and commemorative events, such as the organization's celebrated 50th Anniversary Powwow, which showcase the vibrant cultural life Odawa nurtures in the Ottawa area. The centre's philosophy—that everyone is welcome—reflects an inclusive approach to community building that transcends typical organizational boundaries. By weaving together traditional teachings with contemporary community development, Odawa has established itself as a healing presence and gathering place for Indigenous peoples throughout Ottawa and surrounding communities, demonstrating that cultural continuity and community resilience are inseparable.

Ottawa, Ontario

Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre

Since its founding in the late 1970s as the Fort Erie Native Social Club, the Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre has grown into a vital community institution serving Fort Erie, ON and the surrounding region. What began as a safe gathering space for Indigenous people seeking refuge from discrimination evolved into Canada's first completely funded satellite Friendship Centre when it became incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1983. This historic achievement reflected the organization's dedication to providing essential services and support during a critical period in Indigenous community development. The centre's relocation to its current Buffalo Road location in 1988 marked a turning point, enabling significant expansion and the development of specialized facilities tailored to community needs. Today, the Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre operates with a philosophy centered on healing and cultural reclamation, recognizing that decades of historical restrictions on Indigenous practices and ceremonies created profound losses in community knowledge and identity. The organization actively works to restore these traditions and support members in reclaiming their cultural heritage. Guided by the vision "Together for a Stronger Tomorrow," the Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre operates as a collaborative community hub where no single person claims credit for success. The organization's core values—tradition, friendship, respect, professionalism, compassion, integrity, and honesty—inform every program and service. By extending friendship to the entire community while prioritizing Indigenous wellness, the centre continues its foundational mission to enhance all aspects of Native life and help community members become the persons they were meant to be.

Fort Erie, Ontario

Barrie Area Native Advisory Circle

Since its establishment in 1989, the Barrie Area Native Advisory Circle has served as a trusted regional voice for Indigenous communities across Barrie, ON, Simcoe County, Muskoka, and northern York Region. Founded on the principles of lifelong learning, self-determination, and community participation, BANAC operates as a board-governed organization led by elected representatives from Indigenous communities throughout the region. The organization is deeply committed to preserving and promoting Anishinaabe language, wisdom, and knowledge while fostering respectful, trusting relationships between communities, service providers, and planners. BANAC's strength lies in its collaborative approach, partnering with numerous Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations to create systemic change through culturally appropriate service integration. The organization takes a holistic approach to addressing the shared concerns of member communities, believing that working together creates stronger outcomes for all people. With a diverse team of specialists including Indigenous health system transformation experts, family wellness workers, and community coordinators, BANAC brings both professional expertise and cultural understanding to every initiative. The organization's board comprises representatives from organizations such as the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, Georgian Bay Métis Council, Barrie Native Friendship Centre, and several other Indigenous-led groups, ensuring authentic community leadership and accountability in all decision-making processes.

Barrie, Ontario

Native Canadian Centre of Toronto

For over six decades, the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto has served as a cornerstone of the urban Indigenous community, guided by values of Wisdom, Love, Respect, Bravery, Honesty, Humility, and Truth. As a membership-based charitable organization, the NCCT is dedicated to nurturing an inclusive environment where all people respect Indigenous knowledge and work together toward a better future. Since its founding in 1962, the Centre has welcomed people of all nations and backgrounds to Toronto, becoming one of the original Friendship Centres in Canada and establishing itself as a key gathering place for Indigenous peoples and allies alike. The organization's mission centers on empowering the Indigenous community through programs that support holistic wellness across spiritual, emotional, physical, and mental dimensions. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto within a heritage building featuring the largest collection of Canadian Indigenous artwork in the city, the NCCT embodies cultural pride and accessibility. Beyond direct programming, the Centre serves as a community resource hub, providing directories of Indigenous agencies and businesses in Toronto, guidance on researching Indigenous ancestry, and connections to critical support services. The NCCT's commitment to reconciliation and community building extends through traditional ceremonies, cultural exploration tours, and ongoing community engagement that honors the deep Indigenous roots of Tkaronto (Toronto) while building a healthy and vibrant urban Indigenous future.

Toronto, Ontario

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Native American Community in Canada > Ontario