LEADING  
WITH JOY: OUR YEAR IN ACTION

IMPACT REPORT 2024–25

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Spirit North respectfully acknowledges that our organization’s work and programs take place on the traditional territories of modern and historic treaty territories and unceded lands of many diverse First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures and communities. We are continuously learning ways to honour these lands and the rich and complex stories of Indigenous peoples whose territory we reside on or are visiting. We are thankful for the many generations who have lived on and continue to care for these lands.

From coast to coast to coast, Indigenous youth are breaking barriers, building leadership, and experiencing joy through sport and play. This year, Spirit North worked in partnership with 103 Indigenous communities, delivering more than 40 land-based activities rooted in local cultures and priorities. With the support of partners and donors nationwide, we continue to walk alongside communities in a spirit of reciprocity, respect, and responsibility. The result is programs and relationships that have grown in depth, and once again, we’re witnessing that when Indigenous youth are given the opportunity to shine, they are truly unstoppable.

WATCH A MESSAGE FROM OUR TEAM

OUR APPROACH

Spirit North walks alongside Indigenous communities to create culturally relevant sport and play opportunities for youth that build skills, confidence, health, and connection.    Our programs take place on the lands and waters that connect us all. We work in the spirit of reconciliation, honouring Indigenous histories and stewardship, and learning  from the communities who welcome us into their territories.

Video made possible by Sun Life and the BBC

2024/25 AT A GLANCE

Our approach to program evaluation centers around relationships, inclusion and Two-Eyed Seeing. We interviewed 35 youth, community members and educators representing diverse voices, regions and sport programs. Their unique experiences and perspectives are helping us shape the future of Spirit North programs.

18,509 Students

2,571 Community Members

2,389 Program Days

IN THE PAST FOUR YEARS

Student participation has more than tripled from approximately 5,500 to over 18,509.

The number of unique communities and schools we work with has roughly doubled. (*1.74x more communities, and 2.26x more schools)

Program days have increased by 14%.

Community participation has grown nearly 7x from approximately 350 to 2,571.

Roles have been created for 43% more youth leaders.

Participation by grade

IN THE PAST FOUR YEARS

Student participation has more than tripled from approximately 5,500 to over 18,509.

Community participation has grown nearly 7x from approximately 350 to 2,571.

The number of unique communities and schools we work with has roughly doubled. (*1.74x more communities, and 2.26x more schools)

Roles have been created for 43% more youth leaders.

Program days have increased by 14%.

Participation by grade

IN THE PAST FOUR YEARS

Student participation has more than tripled from approximately 5,500 to over 18,509.

Community participation has grown nearly 7x from approximately 350 to 2,571.

The number of unique communities and schools we work with has roughly doubled. (*1.74x more communities, and 2.26x more schools)

Roles have been created for 43% more youth leaders.

Program days have increased by 14%.

Participation by grade

Educators

100% identified increased physical activity as the biggest impact
92% noted an improved connection to school
88% acknowledged that overall health improved for youth
100% identified quality relationships as a distinguishing program feature
71% noted improvement in youth physical literacy

Community Members

100% see positive physical, social, and mental health impacts on youth
100% identified authentic relationships as core to Spirit North programs
83% define program success through a relational lens

Youth

100% participate in programs because of fun and activity variety
100% described learning new sport skills as confidence-building
89% value programs because they are inclusive and supportive
63% listed barriers to participation, which included transportation, scheduling, and competing responsibilities

From Coast to Coast to Coast

Spirit North is growing in both reach and impact. What began as a small network of community partnerships has expanded into a national movement connecting thousands of Indigenous youth to the joy of sport, play, and the land. Guided by co-creation with communities, our programs now span more regions, involve more local leaders, and reflect deeper relationships built on respect, reciprocity, and shared purpose.

“Spirit North has been foundational to our school’s most positive experiences over the past six years. Programs are embedded in the rhythm of the school and deeply valued by staff and students. ”

— Principal, Burns Lake

172

Schools

106

Communities

WALKING TOGETHER

Many Indigenous youth face barriers to sport and play: from lack of facilities to geographic isolation. Yet, every challenge reveals opportunity: the chance to spark leadership, strengthen culture, and create lasting health through movement.

At Spirit North, our work continues to be guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action. We aim to do our part to alleviate the painful legacy of the residential school system by providing fair access to sport and play that supports and empowers Indigenous youth.

Reconciliation happens through relationships. That means listening deeply, learning from Indigenous voices, and working alongside communities every step of the way. Every Nation, every school, and every program reflects unique strengths, knowledge, languages, and priorities. That’s why co-creation is at the centre of everything we do, whether through formal planning sessions or the everyday conversations that shape programs on the land.

#19 Health  We help close the gap in health outcomes by ensuring Indigenous youth have access to the physical, mental, and cultural benefits of sport and land-based activities, creating space for well-being that lasts a lifetime.

#89 Sports & Reconciliation  We elevate sport and play as a fundamental part of health and well-being, and we support active communities through local events and dedicated programming.

#90 Sports & Reconciliation  We collaborate with schools and communities to create programs that reflect local needs, and invest in resources, training, certification and mentorship to ensure these benefits last for generations to come.

Three TRC CALLS TO action we are focused on addressing are:

45%

of our community program leaders and associates are Indigenous

55%

current Board members identify as Indigenous

Many Indigenous youth face barriers to sport and play: from lack of facilities to geographic isolation. Yet, every challenge reveals opportunity: the chance to spark leadership, strengthen culture, and create lasting health through movement.

At Spirit North, our work continues to be guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action. We aim to do our part to alleviate the painful legacy of the residential school system by providing fair access to sport and play that supports and empowers Indigenous youth.

Reconciliation happens through relationships. That means listening deeply, learning from Indigenous voices, and working alongside communities every step of the way. Every Nation, every school, and every program reflects unique strengths, knowledge, languages, and priorities. That’s why co-creation is at the centre of everything we do, whether through formal planning sessions or the everyday conversations that shape programs on the land.

Three TRC CALLS TO action we are focused on addressing are:

#19 Health  We help close the gap in health outcomes by ensuring Indigenous youth have access to the physical, mental, and cultural benefits of sport and land-based activities, creating space for well-being that lasts a lifetime.

#89 Sports & Reconciliation  We elevate sport and play as a fundamental part of health and well-being, and we support active communities through local events and dedicated programming.

#90 Sports & Reconciliation  We collaborate with schools and communities to create programs that reflect local needs, and invest in resources, training, certification and mentorship to ensure these benefits last for generations to come.

45%

of our community program leaders and associates are Indigenous

55%

current Board members identify as Indigenous

“For us, to reconcile is to make the relationship, to build the relationship
between one another… you can’t buy your relationship or friendship.”

— Ollie Benjamin, Stoney Nakoda Nation

IN ACTION

From cross-country skiing to canoeing, archery to traditional games, Spirit North programs spark joy, confidence, and connection in every season. This gallery is a showcase of over 40 different sports and land-based activities offered in partnership with communities. Each photo represents a pathway to health, leadership, and belonging for Indigenous youth.

1) Archery
2) Biking
3) Canoeing
4) Kayaking
5) Paddleboarding/SUP
6) Sailing
7) Basketball
8) Baseball
9) Softball / Fastball
10) Volleyball
11) Soccer
12) Lacrosse
13) Ball Hockey / Floor Hockey
14) Badminton
15) Tennis
16) Rugby
17) Boxing (Training, Workouts)
18) Gymnastics
19) Track & Field
20) Running Club
21) Traditional Games
22) Powwow Dancing
23) Language & Culture on the Land Programs
24) Cross-Country Skiing
25) Downhill Skiing
26) Biathlon
27) Snowshoeing
28) Snow Games
29) Tobogganing
30) Dog Sledding
31) Hiking
32) Forest Games
33) Nature Walks
34) Orienteering
35) Shelter Building
36) Outdoor Skills
37) Scavenger Hunts
38) Gardening
39) Land Based Skills
40) Animal Processing
41) Plant Id and foraging
42) Creative / Camp Activities
43) Physical Education/Gym Class
44) Clothing Drives / Food Programs
45) Elders Gatherings & Healing Gatherings

“Spirit North does a great job of exposing kids to different activities: kayaking or canoeing on lakes, mountain biking in the bush, Indigenous games like double ball, cross country skiing. These kids don’t have the opportunity to do them otherwise.”

— Teacher, Maskwacis

“The best part about Spirit North is the people. They’re all nice, they don’t judge anybody, and they make me so welcome.”

— Northern Alberta Youth Leader

“Spirit North does a great job of exposing kids to different activities: kayaking or canoeing on lakes, mountain biking in the bush, Indigenous games like double ball, cross country skiing. These kids don’t have the opportunity to do them otherwise.”

— Teacher, Maskwacis

SPORT HIGHLIGHT - ARCHERY

While skiing has been central to Spirit North’s programming over the years, introducing a diverse range of experiences, such as archery, has allowed for more generational involvement. Many teachers and community members jump in to share their knowledge and skills, reconnecting youth to the traditions of their community and deepening their understanding of the land.

Archery also offers a unique opportunity for students who may not feel comfortable on skis or bikes to shine. It has proven to be a hit in creating a fun and inclusive atmosphere while growing life-long skills and confidence.

“When students know that Spirit North is coming to our school, our attendance is right on. The attendance really goes up, it really is improved when Spirit North is here. And I think just the whole energy of the school is very positive.”

—  Teacher, Temagami First Nation

“Archery is a slam dunk for participation.”

— Graham McLean, Community Program Leader, Northern BC

FESTIVAL FUN

Each winter, Spirit North hosts Festival Days across Turtle Island, collaborating with Indigenous communities to gather and participate in traditional games, winter games, food and cultural activities.

This year, we held 16 festivals from Smithers to Sudbury.

Spirit North’s annual festivals are about more than sport; they’re about being together on the land. Every festival is a collective effort, made possible by our team leaders, volunteers, sponsors, donors, community members, and Elders coming together to create joyful, inclusive spaces where connection can grow.

“Whether Indigenous or non-Indigenous coaches, they’re also human beings. They’re able to form relationships with the kids and people in those communities, and I think that’s the best thing about Spirit North.”

— Community Member, Maskwacis

Stories from the land

A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP

ON A ROLL

SASKATCHEWAN

THE NEXT GENERATION

From bike fleets that spark new possibilities in Alberta, to braving the chill with a smile in the Northwest Territories, and finding meaning through Manitoba’s cultural programs, our stories show what’s possible when opportunity meets determination.

HONOURING THE LAND

ACCESS + OPPORTUNITY

BUILDING CAPACITY

LOOKING AHEAD

Last fall, Spirit North entered a new chapter of leadership as Gary St. Amand stepped into the role of CEO, carrying forward the vision, Beckie Scott, who continues to serve in a founder capacity. Over this past year, we’ve focused on a thoughtful transition and exploration to help shape a long-term strategic plan to guide our path forward.

Through this period of change, one thing has remained constant: our commitment to delivering high-quality programs in partnership with communities. Together with all of you who believe in the power of sport and play for Indigenous youth, Spirit North remains dedicated to creating space for young people to grow, lead, and inspire.

COLLECTIVE PURPOSE

Our team, together with committed partners and allies, share a vision for a world where Indigenous youth can shine their brightest.    Funders, community leaders, and volunteers walk alongside us, amplifying voices, building capacity, and sustaining the impact of our programs. Thank you to all of you who have supported and joined this movement.