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Cheakamus Centre receives federal funding to enhance Indigenous cultural experiences

July 14, 2022

The Cheakamus Foundation for Environmental Learning is receiving $100,000 in federal funding to enhance year-round Indigenous cultural experiences at Cheakamus Centre.

The funding is part of the federal government’s Tourism Relief Fund (TRF), a national program created to support tourism businesses and organizations who are investing in their future growth, while once again, safely welcoming visitors. In British Columbia, the TRF is supporting destination development and cultural education in Whistler and Brackendale.

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The funding will allow for upgrades to the teaching longhouse at Cheakamus Centre, including COVID-19 safety modifications.

Cheakamus Centre will engage Skwxwú7mesh Knowledge Keepers to ensure respectful integration of new Indigenous programming elements. In addition to educating visitors on the region’s Indigenous heritage and teachings, the funding is also expected to support the development of career pathways for local Indigenous youth.

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"We are grateful for this generous funding to help grow educational tourism experiences in our region, and we welcome visitors of all ages to share in the beauty, depth and vibrancy of Skwxwú7mesh culture in fun, interactive and engaging ways," said Cathy Jenkins, Director, Cheakamus Foundation.

Read the full media release.

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