![](https://www.squamish.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/children_lacrosse.jpg)
Ayás Mén̓men
Child & Family Services
Nexwniwnitway (Family Circle Program)
Facilitators/Coordinators: Fawnda Bullshields and Brandi Bailey
Phone: 604-985-4111
Emails: Fawnda_Bullshields@squamish.net
and Brandi_Bailey@squamish.net
Nexwniwnitway (“nough-nay-owe-nate-why”) means to seek counsel, as in the sense of mutual intent to discuss, resolve, plan, and follow up. The goal of the Nexwniwnitway program is to enhance the community’s well-being by enabling and empowering families to advocate for themselves in child and family matters, while highlighting the importance of making healthy choices and assuming responsibility for their families and the community.
We welcome referrals for family circles from Nation Members and service providers, addressing various concerns related to Sḵwx̱wú7mesh children and families.
Sḵwx̱wú7mesh values and principles guide our discussions, ensuring that these values remain at the forefront of all our circles. Our participants include parents, extended family members, service providers, program specialists, Elders, cultural teachers, circle facilitators, and co-facilitators.
These circles encompass various types, such as prevention meetings, case planning conferences, family group conferences, and youth transition circles. Additionally, we hold ceremonies for youth aging out, to honor caregivers, or to celebrate a child’s return home to their parent. Some of these celebrations are referred to as rights of passage ceremonies or welcoming home ceremonies.
Nation Updates
Squamish Nation Establishes Historic Partnership with Lime, Pioneering Indigenous Mobility Solutions Globally
Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Lime, marking the first agreement between a shared micromobility operator and First Nation in Canada. Lime will deploy its fleet of electric bikes and providing dedicated parking locations in community and nearby areas, offering convenient and eco-friendly mobility options within the community and surrounding areas.
Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw History Book For Sale
We are excited to announce that tiná7 cht ti temíxw (We Come From This Land) will be published in early January 2024! The book is intended to be a snapshot – a collection of some of the multi-faceted stories and histories that are held by the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh People and a starting point for future conversations.
etsím lam̓ tl’a i7x̱w swat (washroom for everyone)
We’re excited to announce that starting next week, new All Gender Washroom signage will be in place across Squamish Nation buildings to support a safe and private experience for all who need to use the washroom!