Strengthening Futures Together: Nogdawindamin and Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig Sign Collaboration Agreement
Sault Ste. Marie, ON — Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services (Nogdawindamin) and Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig (SKG) will officially sign a Collaboration Agreement on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, marking an important step forward in strengthening opportunities for Indigenous learners, families, and communities.
The agreement establishes a respectful, reciprocal framework grounded in Indigenous values, community priorities, and shared responsibility. Together, Nogdawindamin and SKG will collaborate on education, training, and workforce development initiatives, with a strong emphasis on culturally grounded learning, mentorship, and community-based approaches.
Through this partnership, the organizations will focus on expanding experiential learning opportunities, supporting Indigenous youth and learners, promoting knowledge sharing, and strengthening pathways from education to meaningful employment.
“This partnership reflects the importance of Indigenous organizations coming together to support our people, learners, and communities in meaningful ways,” said Mary Wabano-McKay, President and Chief Academic Officer, Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig. “At Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, we believe education is deeply connected to culture, relationships, and community wellbeing. Through this collaboration with Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services, we are strengthening opportunities for Indigenous learners through culturally grounded education, mentorship, and shared learning, while continuing to walk alongside one another in support of future generations.”
Karen Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer of Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services, emphasized the importance of partnership in supporting holistic community wellbeing:
“This collaboration represents our shared commitment to walking alongside our communities and creating meaningful, culturally grounded opportunities for the children, youth, and families we serve. By working together with Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, we
are strengthening pathways for learning, growth, and wellness that honour Indigenous knowledge, support self-determination, and uplift future generations.”
The Collaboration Agreement reflects both organizations’ commitment to long-term relationship building, mutual respect, and relational accountability, ensuring that initiatives are guided by Indigenous knowledge systems and community priorities.
The signing ceremony will take place at Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig on May 14, 2026, bringing together leadership, staff, and community members to celebrate this milestone partnership.
Media Contacts:
Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services
Jonathan Boyer-Nolan, Communications Manager
Phone: 705-946-3700 ext. 2007
Email: @email
Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig
Jayselen Moore, Senior Executive Assistant and Project Coordinator
Phone: 705-998-2496
Email: @email