SPIRIT NORTH
STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK
PURPOSE AND CONTEXT
The Spirit North Strategic Framework sets the long-term direction for the organization’s work with Indigenous youth and communities. Informed by the voices of youth, communities, Elders, educators, partners, and staff, it envisions a future where Indigenous youth experience the joy of sport and play, strengthen their identities, and thrive in connection with community and land.
The framework defines Spirit North’s purpose and provides a shared foundation for all future planning. It is intentionally visionary, outlining long-term aspirations rather than specific programs, metrics, timelines, or resources.
To move from vision to action, Spirit North uses a cascading set of planning documents:
Strategic Framework: Long-term vision and direction
Business Plan: Medium-term initiatives and projects
Operations Plan: Annual goals and deliverables
As Spirit North’s north star, the Strategic Framework ensures alignment across planning, decisions, and day-to-day operations. Guided by the Framework, Spirit North looks forward to continuing to work in partnership with Indigenous Nations and communities to support Indigenous youth in leading active, connected and thriving lives.
THE VISION
All Indigenous youth experience the joy of sport and play
Spirit North imagines a future where all Indigenous youth live active, healthy lives, celebrate their culture and identities, strengthen their communities, and pursue their dreams.
THE MISSION
We co-create sport and play opportunities for Indigenous youth centered on the land and in community
Programs are co‑created with communities and schools, emphasizing cultural context, outdoor and land-based activities, and opportunities for leadership development within their communities.
STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
Sport, play, and land-based programming
Engage and inspire Indigenous youth through culturally relevant, land-based programs, ensuring access to meaningful opportunities for sport and play.
Youth development and leadership
Create inclusive environments where all Indigenous youth can experience the joy of sport and play, build confidence, capacity, and social and cultural connections.
Community partnerships and co-creation
Continuously learn from and work with community partners to co-create programs that reflect each community's unique culture and needs.
Awareness and advocacy
Collaborate with youth and their communities to raise awareness about and advocate for the need for equitable access to sport and play for Indigenous youth.
Sustainable practices
Deliver stable programs, systems, diverse revenues3 and adequate resources to ensure the ability to sustain long-term relationships, programs, employees, and impacts.
