One Arrow Equestrian Centres EAL

One Arrow First Nation Four Good Reasons Cover this Event
1) THE LEADING, First Nation COMMUNITY (nationally and internationally) to offer a personal growth and development program for every youth in the community to participate in, delivered through the school; a ground breaking commitment to the overall wellness to One Arrow First Nation. One Arrow EAL Directors will be on-site and available for th interviews June 9 , at 11:30 a.m. 2) EAL RESEARCH PARTNERSHIP, AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF THE CONTRIBUTION OF EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING IN THE WELLBEING OF FIRST NATIONS PEOPLE LIVING ON RESERVE; The study is a collaborative effort between the One Arrow Equestrian Ctr (offers EAL Program), researchers at Brandon University (School of Health Studies), Almightyvoice Educational Centre (educational partnership and support), One Arrow First Nation of Saskatchewan (Chief and Council providing full support). Researcher from BU, EAL Dirs, School Principal, and Special Education Dir will be on-site and available for interviews, at 11:30 a.m. 3) ONE ARROW EQUESTRIAN CENTRE GRAND OPENING and Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning Program (I.D.E.A.L.), first program of its kind, designed to facilitate new skills for personal growth and development: four teachers and their students will be demonstrating different EAL exercises in the arena between 12:00 - 3:00 p.m. 4) FIRST ANNUAL EAL GRADUATION; teachers and students will be demonstrating their skills, and will be presented with participation certificates at 3:00

proudly announces

Press Packet
One Arrow First Nation
One Arrow Equestrian Centre

I.D.E.A.L. Program
Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning Box 89, Domremy, SK S0K1G0

Lawrence Gaudry Executive Director, 306.423.5454 Koralie Gaudry Program Director, 306.233.8826
www.oaecidealprogram.ca E-mail: ideal@baudoux.ca

306.423.5858

One Arrow First Nation

Equine Assisted Learning

Press Conference Agenda
8:00am PANCAKE BREAKFAST, One Arrow Treaty Committee kicks off family activities with a pancake breakfast at the Almightyvoice Education Centre

One Arrow First Nation

Fact Sheet
Although the band membership continue to grow, One Arrow First Nation, like other First Nation people across Canada are still experiencing hardships. These issues spill over to First Nation youth who are experiencing: $ significant difficulties at home and school; $ placed in foster care, over four times the rate of non-Aboriginal children; $ failing to complete high school; $ over-representation among those charged with criminal offences; $ statistically higher chance of victimization; $ experiencing feelings of alienation and depression; $ high incidents of childhood sexual or physical abuse; $ engaging in high risk behaviors, high rates of attempts and suicide; $ low employment rates; The leaders of One Arrow First Nation continue to stand up for what they believe in are creative problem solvers, and forward thinkers. They are working on strategies to prevent these issues instead of just managing crisis. They are not relying solely on the Government to support or direct resolution of their problems, but take responsibility themselves. Today they carry on with their culture still intact. They teach their children to carry on these traditions and remain true to their own spirituality. The leaders sought out ways to assist their people to deal with the issues they face now, and provide them skills to prevent the issues in the future as well as a way to build the communitys capacity to be strong, positive leaders of tomorrow. To regain their strength as a strong community lost during their hardships, Chief and Council decided it was important to provide the members with culturally congruent, valuable life skill development through partnership with the horse. The horse is a powerful spiritual entity in Cree culture. The horse gives us strength and symbolizes freedom. One Arrow has made a significant investment financially, mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually in using Equine Assisted Learning and therapies as a fundamental strategy to instill hope, healing and prosperity for their community. One Arrow First Nation is honoring that spirit and extends an invitation to other bands and Government officials to recognize One Arrows efforts in utilizing the horse as part of their education and healing strategies. One Arrow First Nation is seeking support to keep this innovative and unique project alive, not only for One Arrow, but also for other people in the territory.

11:00am PRESS CONFERENCE guest speakers: $ Chief Dwayne Paul, One Arrow First Nation, will present a brief overview of the reasons he and the Council believed in the benefits Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) could bring to his community and report on some of the successes they have already observed; $ A student from Almightyvoice Education Centre, introduce the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning (E.A.L.) program at the One Arrow Equestrian Center; $ Tribal Chief Felix Thomas, Saskatoon Tribal Council, as an advocate of accountability, personal growth and development, Thomas will speak to the success health and social development could experience by delivering EAL to every youth in the community through the school; he is encouraged with One Arrows EAL preliminary educational findings and supportive of the One Arrow/Brandon Universitys research partnerships potential to provide a long lasting positive solution to some of the current issues; $ Vice Chief Morley Watson, FSIN, to speak on IDEAL program potential in relation to his role as the Justice Secretariat; $ Andrea C. Hinch-Bourns, Brandon University, will have the privilege to officially announce the partnership of Brandon Universitys Health Studies researchers, the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning (E.A.L.) program at the One Arrow Equestrian Center, and the Almightyvoice Education Centre; intended focus of the study: an exploratory study of the contribution of equine assisted learning in the wellbeing of first nations people living on reserve 11:30am INTERVIEWS each person will be onsite identified by a name badge and available for interviews at the press tent $ Guest Speakers, (listed above); $ Lawrence & Koralie Gaudry, EAL Program Directors; $ Candace Scott, Principal Almightyvoice Education Centre $ Connie Regnier, AEC Special Education Director $ School teachers and students attending the EAL program. 12:00 3:00pmGRAND OPENING, RIBBON CUTTING, E.A.L. YOUTH DEMONSTRATION STATIONS inside the arena and LUNCH 3:00pm STUDENT EAL GRADUATION CEREMONY in the One Arrow Equestrian Centre arena. 4:00 6:00pm ROAST BEEF SUPPER in the One Arrow Equestrian Centre arena.

youth and community members to be strong, confident and capable people that can be leaders today and tomorrow," stated Chief Paul. How: Unlike other equine assisted activities that involve riding and focus on physical and developmental disabilities (e.g. Riding, hippotherapy), the specially designed activities at One Arrow Equestrian Centres I.D.E.A.L program are 100% on the ground and focus on metaphoric and experiential learning. In addition, the I.D.E.A.L program utilizes a professional team consisting of certified facilitators, a certified equine specialist, and the horses to address learning and treatment goals. This unique facility has professional staff dedicated to providing positive life skills, leadership and teambuilding services in a fun and exciting atmosphere. Teams of participants work together with a horse partner to overcome challenges/obstacle courses set forth by the I.D.E.A.L team. Each horse/human obstacle has an objective that the participants learn and experience hands on. The objectives of the program are tailored to the group in the arena. A group of school kids may benefit learning about assertiveness and problem solving, whereas a corporate group looking to develop their employees into an effective team may benefit from working on communication or teambuilding challenges. While participants work in the arena with horses, the I.D.E.A.L facilitators point out the teachable moments provided by the horse. This allows participants to gain awareness into current self limiting behaviors and have an opportunity to practice new skills. After the experience in the arena, participants are given an opportunity to debrief and discuss what they learned and how they can apply their new skill learned or new awareness into their everyday life to be more successful. The IDEAL approach is a strength based approach that focuses on what skills and personal awareness participants already have and build on them further. The IDEAL program at One Arrow First Nation is an effective, powerful and positive experience that can create a personal journey and has had an incredible impact on individuals, groups, families, corporate leaders, youth and adults. Why Horses: Horses offer opportunities for experiential emotional growth and learning. As herd animals, horses are highly sensitive to the emotions of those around them and react to those emotions through non-verbal communication (e.g. pinned ears, swishing tails). "The I.D.E.A.L programs activities require the participant or group to apply certain life and social skills to tasks involving the horses. Working with horses requires a person to be their authentic self. Horses provide immediate and honest feedback. This is an effective education and mental health service and all are welcome to the demonstration so you can see for yourself," said Koralie Gaudry, Program Director for One Arrow Equestrian Centres I.D.E.A.L program. "Seeing the participants transform throughout their 16 week journey has been remarkable," says Lawrence Gaudry, Executive Director for One Arrow Equestrian Centre. On June 9, 2011, the first nine classes from One Arrow First Nations I.D.E.A.L program will graduate and will be recognized during the grand opening. One Arrow Equestrian Centres staff is certified by a national recognized academy, Cartiers Equine Learning Centre, which provides education, standards, innovation, and support to professionals providing services in Equine Assisted Learning around the world. EAL One Arrow FN Research: One Arrow First Nation leaders are forward thinkers, understanding the benefits of engaging their community members in physical, emotional, social and cultural ways, while at the same time building valuable life skills, in fun and self motivating environment. One Arrow First Nation is working in partnership with researchers from Brandon University to develop a research project to capture qualitative and quantitative data in a study to substantiate the effects EAL has at the individual and community levels. Equestrian Centre Grand Opening: One Arrow Equestrian Centre is a newly renovated, heated and year round indoor horse facility that was primarily constructed to offer the I.D.E.A.L program and other recreational equine activities to the youth and adults on One Arrow First Nation and the surrounding areas. For directions please call 1-306-423-5858 or e-mail ideal@baudoux.ca and on the web at oaecidealprogram.ca.

News Release

June 09, 2011

One Arrow First Nation, Saskatchewan Contact: Koralie Gaudry, phone 306-423-5858, e-mail: ideal@baudoux.ca

"Horses cant talk, but they communicate if you listen"

One Arrow First Nations proudly announces THE FIRST, First Nation COMMUNITY (nationally and internationally) to offer a personal growth and development program for every youth in the community to participate in, delivered through the school; a ground breaking commitment to the overall wellness to One Arrow First Nation. EAL Research Partnership Agreement, AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF THE CONTRIBUTION OF EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING IN THE WELLBEING OF FIRST NATION PEOPLE LIVING ON RESERVE; The study is a collaborative effort between the One Arrow Equestrian Centre (offers EAL Program), researchers at Brandon University (School of Health Studies), Almightyvoice Educational Centre (educational partnership and support), One Arrow First Nation of Saskatchewan ONE ARROW EQUESTRIAN CENTRE GRAND OPENING and Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning Program (I.D.E.A.L.), first program of its kind, designed to facilitate new skills for personal growth and development; FIRST ANNUAL EAL GRADUATION; four teachers and their students will be demonstrating different EAL exercises in the arena between 12:00 and 3:00. The role of the human animal bond has been postulated to promote wellness and prevent illness (Beck & Katcher 2003) AGENDA, June 09, 2010: 11:00 NATIONAL PRESS CONFERENCE: Announcing the first community to provide EAL to every youth in the community through the school and Announcing EAL Research Partnership, at the Press Tent 11:30 INTERVIEWS with guest speakers, Lawrence and Koralie Gaudry, program directors, principal, special education director, teachers and students in the program, at the Press Tent. 12:00 GRAND OPENING, RIBBON CUTTING, E.A.L. DEMONSTRATION STATIONS, LUNCH at the One Arrow Equestrian Centre and the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning Program (I.D.E.A.L.) 3:00 GRADUATION, the First Annual I.D.E.A.L program graduation. The public, media, medical professionals, parents of youth, youth, veterans, elders and other interested people are invited to the grand opening and EAL demonstrations (no horse experience necessary). At the One Arrow Equestrian Centre and the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning Program (I.D.E.A.L.) Horses are helping people at a program at One Arrow First Nation through the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning (I.D.E.A.L) Program. One Arrow First Nation is the first community, nationally and internationally to offer a culturally significant equine assisted learning program to their entire community, as well is committed to offering these same benefits to other first nations. Why One Arrow FN: One Arrow Equestrian Centres I.D.E.A.L program helps people help themselves through equine assisted growth and learning. The program at One Arrow is unique and proactive. Most social skills programs are directed towards people at risk or have already been influenced by negative circumstances surrounding them. One Arrows program is a proactive capacity building strategy that partners with communities to build protective factors in participants. One Arrow First Nations leader Chief Dwayne Paul and the community councilors initially invested in this program as a culturally relevant way to empower people in their community to make positive life changes. "We need to help all our

Biographies
Chief Dwayne Paul, One Arrow First Nation
Chief Paul was born and raised at One Arrow First Nation. He has a wonderful wife Lori, and three children, Trevor 24, Gage 17, and Reagan 15 and one grandson Cohen 3. Chief Paul has been Chief of One Arrow First Nation for thirteen and a half years. Before his time as Chief, he worked in Alberta at a group home for troubled youth and was a council member for 5 years. Throughout his career as Chief, he has held health, education and recreation portfolios. Chief Pauls passion is advocating for improved access to education for his community members. To that end, over the last year Chief Paul and council have encouraged the value of education for those between the ages of 18 and 30. There have been many changes in the areas of Social Development and Education at One Arrow First Nation over the past year. Chief and Council have succeeded in offering Adult Education both on and off reserve as well as supporting those over 18 and in high school. January of this year also saw the opening of the Equine Learning Facility which offers the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning Program. There are currently 90 participants which will graduate on June 9th. This is an exciting asset in which the whole community can benefit. Under the direction of Chief Paul and Kristina Matchap (Education portfolio holder and council member), Almighty Voice Education Center staff have been working hard to provide a quality education to their students and as part of this goal they have integrated the equine assisted programming directly into the school curriculum. Another accomplishment over the last 3 years was the start of the Fire Creek Gas and Grill business operations which has created numerous job opportunities and the financial security for the community. Other milestones of his career include helping the community out of third party receivership, the development of an apartment complex in Saskatoon, and development of numerous job and educational opportunities for band members. Some of the boards Chief Paul sits on are for the Dakota Dunes Community Development Corporation, Indigenous Gaming Regulators. On behalf of One Arrow First Nations recent efforts, Chief Paul accepted the Saskatchewan Aboriginal Literacy Network Award in the business/organization category.
th

Principal Candace Scott,

Almightyvoice Education Centre One Arrow First Nation
Candace was born and raised on the Beardys and Okemasis First Nation located on the West side of the Saskatchewan River. Her mother was from the One Arrow First Nation, providing her with many relatives in the community. Candace has been happily married for 31 years to Russell Scott. She has four wonderful children, 3 of which are adults and married and she also has 3 beautiful grandchildren. In 2004, she came to work as a teacher at the Almightyvoice Education Center. For two years she greatly enjoyed working in the classroom. Most of Candices career involved doing administrative duties, so the change to being in the classroom for those two years was a very rewarding time for her. In 2006, she took on the Principalship at Almightyvoice Education Center, and has been in that position since. She has enjoyed working with everyone in the community. Candice commented: The staff from the Equestrian Center have been involved with school activities, and training that Almightyvoice Education Center has to offer. We all have been working as a team, because their beliefs are our beliefs that children come first and children can learn, even from horses. Candice understands what hands on learning can provide youth. Because the I.D.E.A.L. program teaches life skills and compassion through experiential learning she knew the program would be a great fit to provide the primary prevention strategies all youth need to successfully navigate through their social and academic lives. Candice has been instrumental in incorporating the I.D.E.A.L. Program into the curriculum and supporting the teachers and students in this venture. Connie Regnier AEC Special Educ/Balanced Literacy Coordinator, Almightyvoice Education Centre Connie was born and raised in the small rural community of St. Louis, SK where she continues to reside with her family; her common-law husband Roy and their three children Troy, Ryley and Shayna. Connie enjoys the closeness and pride of the small town. Connie is of Metis ancestry. She has been teaching for 22 years, twelve of which have been with the One Arrow First Nation at the Almightyvoice Education Centre. In the past 15 years she has worked in the area of special education. Connie takes pride in being an advocate for the students who need the differentiated instruction and supports the inclusion of students in the classroom. Living in the area Connie knew how horses have been an integral part of the community. Although initially afraid of horses herself she supported the development of the IDEAL program. Connie had seen firsthand behavior changes in some of the toughest youth. Connie has been invaluable in assisting the staff at the One Arrow Equine Center and the Teachers at the Almightyvoice Education Center with the start-up of the I.D.E.A.L. Program. She freely shares her enthusiasm with students, teachers and the general public.

As recently re-elected Chief for his 6 term, Chief Paul plans to focus on supporting families so that parents may realize their educational and career goals. He strongly believes that educational, therapeutic and skill building programs will empower families to successfully build the skills to be strong, confident and positive community members and leaders. Chief Dwayne Paul believes that the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning Program at the One Arrow Equestrian Centre has the ability to open the doors to create a community of unconditional caring for one another.

Tribal Chief Felix Thomas, Saskatoon Tribal Council

Felix Thomas is a member of the Kinistin Saulteaux Nation and grew up in that community. He is married to Dawne and they have four children. Felix obtained his formal education from the University of Saskatchewan with Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees. A relatively young leader, Felix has amassed over thirteen (13) years of experience in First Nation governance by serving as a Band Councilor for two (2) years and as Chief of Kinistin for eleven (11) years. His work experience includes a stint as Executive Director of the FSINs Health & Social Development Commission for three (3) years. An experience he describes as very valuable and contributing to a broader understanding of the inside operations of a First Nations political organization. In addition to serving as a Board and Commission member on various agencies within Saskatchewan, Felix has also served First Nations people as: Co-Chair of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Chiefs Committee on Health Member of the AFN National Self-Government Committee FSIN Indian Government Commission Member of the Board of the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority Member of the Board of the Indigenous Gaming Regulators Member of the Board of the Saskatchewan Indian Training Assessment Group Member of the Board of the Saskatchewan Indian Cultural Centre Chair, STC Casino Holdings Corporation Vice-Chair, Dakota Dunes Community Development Corporation In the political realm, Felix has proven to be committed to the vision of creating opportunities for First Nation people through personal and professional development and empowerment initiatives. He has actively worked in the protection of Treaty Rights. A particular success was when he negotiated a moratorium on any changes to Non-Insured Health Benefits in 1998 which prevented their erosion for just short of a decade. Other active involvement includes community development initiatives, accountability to First Nations, and improvement of education, health and social programs. Felix has advocated for responsible and responsive leadership by endorsing leadership that is effective, experienced, educated and committed. Felix believes in working with the greatest resources of First Nations, which are people. He demonstrated his belief that programs and services need to be appropriate to each community, designed and administered by them through his role as lead negotiator on the initial Saskatoon Tribal Council Health Transfer Agreement. He led the discussion on the tribal council design for community-based control. Further, Felix ensured that the STC and Province of Saskatchewan Bi-Lateral Agreement on Child and Family Services protected First Nations jurisdiction and authority. Felix has worked tirelessly for his own community. One of his greatest attributes is his commitment and ability to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to move issues forward to a resolution.

Vice Chief Morely Watson, FSIN

A member of the Ochapowace-Chacachas First Nation located near Whitewood, ViceChief Morley Watson is serving his third term with the FSIN. Throughout his life, from childhood to the present, Vice Chief Watson has been actively involved with sports, as a competitor, coach, manager and supporter. His participation in various sports such as hockey, fastball, etc. has played a major factor in his growth and development as a person with principles of fairness and sincerity yet with a strong competitive nature to challenge and stand up for what is right, especially for the people. In 1988, he opened Watson Sporting Goods in Melville; this was the first owned and operated business by a First Nation individual of its kind at that time. Business proved to be second nature to him and his business thrived; but being one not ever far from his roots, he returned to Ochapowace to assist the First Nation in the area of economic development in 1993 and through strategic planning, the Nation became very progressive in the world of business as new ventures were established. Believing that First Nations peoples can compete at all levels in sports, he became a founding member of the Lebret Eagles Jr. A Hockey Club, which was very successful. He also became a major contributor to the Ochapowace Sports & Recreation program by coaching, managing and volunteering with the various hockey and fastball teams, capturing league and provincial championships. He was honored when he was inducted into the Indian Head & District Sports Hall of Fame. In 2006, he took on the challenge of coaching the FSIN Midget Boys Fastball Team and not only did they earn Gold at the North American Indigenous Games held in Denver, Colorado but they went on to win the Canadian National Championship it is believed to be the first in the history of Softball Canada that a First Nation team would earn a national title. Growing up as a son of a Chief, First Nations politics was very familiar to him; his father and brothers served their Nation in leadership as Chief and/or Councilors so it was natural for him to follow the path set before him. He was elected to Council in 1982 and eventually became Chief, serving for two terms. A major accomplishment while in office was when he negotiated the first ever Alternate Funding Agreement (AFA) in Canada this agreement is only allowed for First Nations with exemplary financial management. Another achievement while in office, he assisted in the advancement of legal action against the Saskatchewan Government that led to the Treaty Land Entitlement negotiations. Elected to serve his first term in 1997 as the First Vice Chief of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, his portfolios included Education & Training; Sports, Culture, Recreation & Youth. He sat as Chair, Co-Chair and Board of Director to various boards and commissions. His second term commenced in 2003 and he was given the portfolios of Health & Social Development and Education, also sitting as the representative to the national Chiefs Committee on Health and Education during that term in office. Never one to shy away from the tough issues, he has made the difficult decisions in his portfolio areas that are for the benefit for all First Nations in Saskatchewan and their members. He was elected in 2006 to his third term, and currently holds the files on Economic and Employment Development, Gaming Jurisdiction and Housing & Public Works. He sits on the national Chiefs Committee on Economic Development representing the Saskatchewan region. Re-elected in 2009 to a fourth term, Vice-Chief Watson was given the portfolio responsibilities of Economic Development, Finance & Administration, Sports & Recreation, and most recently Justice. He continues to sit on the national committees at the Assembly of First Nations for his assigned portfolio responsibilities. He is a proud father and grandfather, very active in their upbringing and encouraging them in their endeavors. He is very close to his brothers and sister and enjoys spending time with his numerous nieces, nephews and traditionally adopted children. He is a corner stone for his family and is a role model for First Nations people; he is an abstainer of drugs and alcohol, participates in cultural ceremonies and is active in communities events.

Andrea C. Hinch-Bourns, BFNAC, MSW Brandon University, Health Studies Department

Andrea is of Okanagan and European ancestry; she is a member of the Okanagan Indian Band located at Head of the Lake near Vernon, British Columbia. Born and raised on a farm southwest of Brandon and Andrea received her early years education in a one room country school before being transported to Brandon via bus to attend grade six through 12. Upon completion of the Assiniboine Community College (ACC) Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) Program in 1983, Andrea has worked as an LPN for almost 20 years in a variety of rural and urban settings. Andreas experience in health care is extensive and includes acute and extended care, mental health, and working in a First Nations community where she was immersed in the culture and traditions. Following a career ending accident, Andrea returned to school and obtained a diploma in Aboriginal Community Development from ACC; she graduated with a Bachelor of First Nations and Aboriginal Counseling Degree from Brandon University (BU) in 2002 and began the Master of Education at BU that same year, but found it was not her area of interest. In 2003 Andrea was accepted into the Pre-Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Manitoba and is currently completing the thesis requirement of the MSW degree. Andreas research focus is MeaningMaking through Spirit: Indigenous womens stories of Loss, Grief and Living. Andreas research background is primarily qualitative with a special interest in Indigenous Research methodologies, Indigenous people and mental health, Indigenous culture, worldviews and knowledge translation, incorporating Western and Indigenous approaches to healing and wellness and improving access, retention and education for Indigenous people. She actively participates in ceremonies and provides cultural awareness presentations for Brandon University, the Brandon Regional Health Authority and community agencies. In 2008 Andrea co-facilitated a presentation at the RPN World Congress on the partnership between the Brandon Regional Health Authority and the Brandon Friendship Centre to provide culturally competent mental health services to Aboriginal people in Brandon. She was the Acting Director of the First Nations and Aboriginal Counseling Program at Brandon University for the past two years. Life-time horse enthusiast Andrea also has a keen interest in capacity building through attainment of Equine Assisted Learning and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy credentialing.

Lawrence Gaudry, Executive Director, One Arrow Equestrian Centre Inc.

Lawrence is the Executive Director of One Arrow Equestrian Centre Inc. and is a certified facilitator for the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning program (I.D.E.A.L). Lawrence holds two certifications in equine assisted learning and equine assisted psychotherapy from the nationally recognized schools; Cartiers Equine Learning Center and EAGALA. Lawrences education in Natural Resource Management has provided him with the experience to effectively manage, and operate an equestrian facility. Lawrence grew up on a small farm in Manitoba which provided him with the knowledge and experience that every day farm life provides. He worked alongside his family on a cattle operation where they relied on horses to work cattle. From a young age, Lawrence has been an avid team roper and enjoys competing all over western Canada. Lawrence has won numerous buckles and trophy saddles in his career and looks forward to working, living, and continuing his roping career in Saskatchewan. Lawrence is a proud father of three girls, enjoys spending time with them, while they ride and compete in various rodeo events. Lawrence is also a certified farrier, runs a successful business and looks after all the hoof care at the centre.

Koralie Gaudry, Program Director, One Arrow Equestrian Centre Inc. and the I.D.E.A.L Program
Koralie is the Program Director of One Arrow Equestrian Centre and the I.D.E.A.L program. Koralie has a Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing and currently considering a Masters Degree. She began her career in northern Manitoba where she worked in acute and community mental health programming. Koralie has experience in developing and operating mental health and wellness programming to all ages. Koralie became involved with horses through her marriage with her husband, Lawrence. Koralies passion is to help people to be the best they can be. Through experience she discovered how horses can facilitate this. Working with some of the toughest population, Koralie was in search of an alternative way to engage youth in learning and healing and equine programming had proven results. Because of this Koralie became certified in equine assisted learning through Cartiers Equine Center and in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy from EAGALA. Koralie, her husband and three girls, Hannah, Halle and Haddison moved to Saskatchewan to develop the equestrian centre. In her spare time, Koralie enjoys riding and travelling to equine events with her family.

History
One Arrow (Peyak- Achosis)
One Arrow First Nation is a Canadian Cree First Nation. Its reserve is located just east of Batoche, Saskatchewan near the South Saskatchewan River about 100 km Northeast of Saskatoon. It is bordered by the Rural Municipalities of St. Louis No. 431, Fish Creek No. 402, and Duck Lake No. 463. The community of One Arrow is honored to be named after Chief One Arrow. The Office of the Treaty Commissioner notes that One Arrow was born in1815, in the valley of the Saskatchewan River, Kapeyakwaskonam) One Arrow (was the chief of a band of Willow Cree. In 1876 Chief One Arrow settled across the South Saskatchewan River near Batoche after signing an in adhesion to Treaty Six near Fort Carlton. The original reserves location was surveyed for 16 square miles in 1880 with 87 members. One Arrow's band was reported to have been involved in the 1885 NorthWest Resistance. There is much debate over One Arrow's involvement in the conflict. Some historical accounts claim they are associated with the Resistance only because of its close proximity to the Metis community at Batoche. Other historical documentation claim Chief One Arrow and his warriors did fight in the Battle of Batoche and was responsible for their own line to defend. Additionally, during the battle of Batoche, Chief One Arrow allowed his friend Louis Riel to use cattle from their Reserve to feed his men. Consequently Chief One Arrow would be arrested for his role in the Rebellion. He was sentenced to 3 years for felony treason. While serving time at Stony Mountain penitentiary Chief One Arrow became ill and died on Easter Sunday April 25, 1886 at, 76. His last words to the Government of Canada were Do not mistreat my people. After his arrest the band was marked as ALL DISLOYAL and taken off the Treaty pay list for four years. There were many years of uncertainty in the community without a Chief for a number of years until Prosper John; the grandson of Chief One Arrow was instated. After the rebellion many of the community members left the Territory and never returned. The NWMP set up barracks near Batoche, afraid of another uprising. A pass system was enforced, which meant members had to obtain a pass to leave the Reserve. These times were very difficult. In the spring of 2007, efforts began to repatriate Chief One Arrows body from the St. Boniface cemetery. The same cemetery Louis Riel was buried. July 9, the Manitoba Government approved the disinterment. July 25, Chief One Arrow arrived at the Reserve. He was repatriated August 28, 2007, the same day he signed Treaty Six, 122 years ago. Spiritually, bringing Chief One Arrow home was a very important milestone in One Arrow First Nation moving forward to take care of their people. Today, the community consists of 1,580 members, living on and off reserve. Their infrastructure includes a general store, mechanic shop, rodeo grounds, sports and pow wow grounds, school, health clinic, band office, band hall, newly developed year round Equestrian Centre and Firecreek Gas Station and apartment complex in Saskatoon.

Map to One Arrow First Nation

Arrival from Wakaw:
$ From Wakaw head West on Hwy 312 to junction of Hwy 225. $ Turn right on 225 & head North past Batoche Historical site. $ Turn right on 225 toward Bellevue $ Go approx. 6.4km East & turn South at One Arrow First Nations sign. $ Head South approx.4.8 km to the Almightyvoice Education Centre. $ The Equestrian facility is located just South East of the school.

Arrival from the North:

$ From Prince Albert take Hwy 2 South. $ Turn West at Bellevue sign onto the 225 grid. $ Approx. 5km past Bellevue turn left or South at One Arrow First Nations sign. $ About 4.8km on the left side of the road is the Almightyvoice Education Centre. $ The Equestrian facility is located just South East of the school.

Arrival from Rosthern:

$ From Rosthern take the 312 East $ Cross the Gabriel Bridge and turn left on Hwy 225. $ Head North past Batoche Historical site. $ Turn right on 225 toward Bellevue $ Go approx. 6.4km East & turn South at One Arrow First Nations sign. $ Head South approx.4.8 km to the Almightyvoice Education Centre. $ The Equestrian facility is located just South East of the school.

Equine-Assisted Learning
programs have the ability to be a powerful journey of learning and understanding. Horses in this program are powerful teaching tools, they immediately respond to what the participant is doing. Facilitators are trained to look for those teachable moments that the horses identify. Quite simply, the horse does the teaching; facilitators are there to offer the explanation and provide guidance to find a solution. The single most asked question is; why are horses used? Horses are culturally significant. Horses have been involved in healing for years before it was formally documented. They facilitate balance in the physical, social, spiritual and emotional areas of life. Horses are extremely sensitive, aware of their surroundings and quick to react. For their mere survival, a wild horse, must constantly be on guard, through herd training they gain trust and respect. Nature provides them with instincts and senses that are very astute. Horses know how to discern the difference between a calm nonthreatening approach and anxious, nervous energy. However, every horse is different just as each child is unique. To understand how this process works we must first realize how horses learn and understand their own rules of survival. In a horses world, the rules are clear, easy to understand and dealt with swiftly if challenged. By realizing this about horses we can alter our teaching techniques to become more efficient. Horses look for strong leadership and are willing to follow after they find trust and respect. If we provide contradictory behavior they start to question and challenge our authority to lead. Horses respect the stringent outline of the hierarchy. The head mare rules the herd and the stallion protects the herd from danger. The head mare and stallion work together as a team for the safety and strength of the herd. The entire herd works together to teach their offspring the rules of survival. In a horses world, team work is expected and respected. Horses respond favorably to positive stimulus even though the consequences are swift and immediate. Horses respect fair behavior then crave to be with you. Horses are teachers and healers. Horses are the eyes to the unseen. If we (as facilitators) are willing to listen, they can assist us with guiding groups to becoming better individuals. Horses dont judge, but they dont forget either. They dont let you cheat and their feedback is honest and instant. Learning to listen to what horses have to say is powerful and can sometimes spur the answer to individual change. By including horses in specially designed educational experiences, equine-assisted specialists have greatly multiplied the participants rate of success to self discovery. How? Horses can magnify and mirror an individuals problem immediately, and provide the skilled facilitator with an opportunity to identify an individuals character. Horses cant over think a participants motive and horses cant manipulate their behavior. But by their intuitive nature and innate sensitivity, horses can provide facilitators with a window into the participants personality. As facilitators listen to a horses non-verbal communication, together they have the ability to walk participants through to finding life-altering change. Through the discovery of how sensitive horses are, how kind and forgiving they can be; we can guide our participants through to becoming better individuals by recognizing those teachable moments, through identifying specific horse behaviors. Quite simply, equine-assisted learning, works.

We Welcome
this opportunity to introduce you to One Arrow Equestrian Centre and the Inspire Direction Equine Assisted Learning Program. This EAL program series was originally designed to facilitate the building of personal development skills, while using horse sense. Since its inception, we have found that participants receive a wide range of individual benefits, especially when enhanced by the follow-up efforts in the community. This past year we developed specialized components that encourages positive change in destructive behaviors. We have been working with Almightyvoice Education Centre, who is committed to dealing with their bullying problem. They have enrolled a couple groups that exhibit aggressive bullying tendencies. Just last week we received a telephone call from one of the teachers that has students that attend our EAL program. She started by quoting a statement Dr. Phil recently made on the air, bullying is the number one cause of teen suicide in America today, then thanked us for our program development efforts. The teacher noted that since her kids enrolled in our program, her classroom had documented significant behavioral modifications in the youth attending and has had every indication it is spreading throughout the school. Changes in participant behavior and teacher comments continue to provide us with data confirming that there is indeed, something about the outside of a horse that seems to make a significant difference to the inside of a child.

Thank you for your time. Cordially,

Lawrence Gaudry