The Quu?asa team from the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council’s Mental Health department hosted Picnic in the Park for urban Nuu-chah-nulth living away from home in Port Alberni. The event was held June 15 at Harbour Quay.
Organizer and outreach worker Justin Dorward, who works with urban Nuu-chah-nulth-aht struggling with addiction issues, said the annual event was initiated some years back by former outreach worker John Gomez who wanted to make sure that those living away from their home communities knew they were not forgotten.
The picnic brings urban Nuu-chah-nulth together with family and friends for a meal (this year hotdogs and hamburgers, salad and chumus were served) as well as some of the local services, like the Nuu-chah-nulth Employment and Training Program. They set up booths to speak with people in attendance. And there were plenty this year, occupying every picnic table and bench and spread out over the grassy area.
Also on hand was Geraldine Edgar who brought cedar strips for weaving roses and bracelets. There were also door prizes and give-aways.
Dorward wanted readers to know that a great deal of help came from people and businesses in the community. He thanks Randy from Buy-Low Foods for the donation, as well as Steve from Quality Foods. He also wanted to thank Kim Rai for all his donations.
“All of you guys help make this event a huge success," Dorward said.
