Catholic Social Services pow wow is one step toward reconciliation

Catholic Social Services (CSS) recently hosted its sixth annual demonstration Pow-wow on June 12— an event that celebrates Indigenous culture, tradition, and fosters community connections.

The event, held at Grovenor School, reflects the agency’s ongoing commitment to meaningful reconciliation through education, celebration, and relationship-building. The pow wow received funding from the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund. Over 300 people attended the pow wow. As the event grows each year, CSS continues to explore new ways to support clients and staff in connecting with Indigenous traditions and identity.

Dr. Troy Davies, CEO of Catholic Social Services said the event shows the agency’s commitment to the “long, hopeful and sacred journey” towards reconciliation with Indigenous peoples inspired by Pope Francis’ historic visit to Alberta and Canada. “The Holy Father’s visit in 2022 was a powerful moment for all of us,” Davies said. “It sparked deeper conversations and has strengthened our resolve to support healing by investing in relationships, education, and shared community work.”

For Doreen Chow, cultural Connector at Catholic Social Services, the path to reconciliation begins with awareness and relationship. “When I first started, I had to make the program from scratch. It was a humongous task,” said Chow, who has been with CSS for eight years

“A lot of the initiatives we’ve established revolve around identity grounding. Whether it’s the Pow-wow, drum making, ribbon skirt making, or traditional feast nights—it’s about equipping staff to help clients reconnect with their cultural roots and Indigenous identity.”

Tasked with developing meaningful training for staff and curating cultural opportunities for clients, Doreen’s work has helped shape CSS’ ongoing formation in Truth and Reconciliation. She recalls that while many frontline staff already had a foundation of understanding, “other departments were in need of cultural training to get them up to par.”

Cultural training is now a formal part of onboarding at Catholic Social Services, ensuring all new staff engage with foundational Indigenous teachings early in their roles. This process includes completing online modules, attending cultural events, and integrating knowledge into practice through client service. Ongoing training remains in place across departments to reinforce learning and strengthen cultural responsiveness throughout the agency.

Among those initiatives, the annual demonstration Pow-wow stands as a proud milestone. What began in 2018 as a simple collaboration with Grovenor School has grown into one of the agency’s most anticipated community events.

“I did not anticipate the eagerness from the students to learn about Indigenous culture,” Chow said. “I stuck around to answer their questions and it kind of went on from there.”

Organizing starts early in the year— from securing the dancers, emcee, and drummers, to coordinating with the school and local community league.  This year, with wildfire smoke and rain in the forecast, quick thinking and flexibility helped relocate the celebration indoors. “We’ve learned from past experiences,” she said. “Despite outgrowing the gym, we were able to pivot easily, and the turnout showed the community’s ongoing support.”

Looking ahead, Chow dreams of having a Kokum: an indigenous grandmother figure — present in the agency’s group homes to support Indigenous youth. “There’s a demand from the youth, and I’ve tried to be there for all of them,” she said.

“But I’m reaching a point where I don’t have the physical capacity to do so alone.”

Brittany Durant, manager for the FASD programs and Doreen’s direct supervisor, speaks highly of Chow’s dedication and influence. “Since I began working directly with Doreen, her dedication has consistently stood out,” Durant said.

“She brings a deep sense of passion and commitment to both the staff and clients connected to Children, Family, and Community Services at Catholic Social Services.”

Chow’s work is described as both intentional and compassionate, with a focus on ensuring that Indigenous children, youth, and families have meaningful opportunities to connect or reconnect with their culture. “She actively engages with both clients and staff to understand the types of teachings they are seeking and she works diligently to ensure these needs are met,” Durant said.

Chow’s impact is felt not just in the events she organizes but in the relationships she builds. Staff regularly volunteer, help prepare food, and encourage client participation—all signs of a community that believes in the work being done. Chow’s leadership also helps cultivate an inclusive environment where non-Indigenous staff feel supported in their learning.

\”This, in turn, helps ensure that culturally appropriate services and spaces are consistently maintained throughout our organization.\”

For more information about the programs and services offered by Catholic Social Services, visit https://www.cssalberta.ca/Our-Services

Photos: 2025 CSS Annual Pow-wow Gallery

The Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton honours the rich cultural heritage, resilience, and spiritual traditions of Indigenous Peoples as we approach National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. We remain committed to walking together in a spirit of reconciliation and respect.