From Calumet to Crisis and Back

July 11, 2009 - PRLog -- The Abenaki Circle of Courage Program draws from the writings of acclaimed Native American author Larry Brendtro, who with colleagues, first introduced this holistic model. While we (Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi, St Francis/Sokoki Band) believe in the tenets of belonging, generosity, independence and mastery, these core values have been adapted to accommodate our own beliefs about children.

As we view children from an "at-promise" paradigm, conventional "at-risk" models are replaced by a strengths-based approach. This video invites the viewer to explore an after-school program designed for all children which-in part- deals with the issue of tobacco reduction. The outcomes are extremely positive and point to practices that maybe beneficial wherever children's health is an issue.

Through a model that utilizes our traditional dance and other customs, students learn the differences between tobacco as a sacred herb used for ceremonies versus the social convention of cigarette smoking. Ultimately, there is a profound sense that when a community creates a context in which youth can thrive, they will....

view video:
http://vcnaa.com/joomla/content/view/980/55/

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