Pen Pal Project

On Friday, May 18, 2012 there was a very special event that was hosted by the Hamilton Nationals Lacrosse Team at McMaster University in Hamilton. It was a celebration of friendship as the Pen Pal Program held their annual Pen Pal Gathering. Students from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, Haldimand County, Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation, Brantford, Hamilton, Burlington and Brampton came together to meet their pen pal after writing back and forth throughout the 2011/2012 school year. The success of the Pen Pal Program would not be what it is if not for the continued support and encouragement of all the principals, the teachers and ultimately the students. The students and their enthusiasm have driven the neighbouring communities to focus on the power of positive relationships. Through letter writing the students are sharing their cultural diversity and displaying the importance of unity. The Pen Pal Committee would like to give special thanks to the following organizations and individuals for their financial support; Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, Ontario Power Generation, Grand Erie District School Board, Haldimand Norfolk REACH, That Crafty Sew and Sew (Al and Helen Dale), and Ian Harper. Special thanks to Arnold Jacobs and Delmor Jacobs for their support and guidance. Arnold Jacobs of Two Turtle Studio designed the very special logo that is the symbol of ‘children coming together’. To the students who participated in the Opening Ceremonies, we appreciate your strength and courage in welcoming all participants and giving thanks in our languages; Gordie Peters and Aleesha Clause (Emily C. General School), Jennifer Williams (Caledonia Centennial Public School), Tyrell King, Makayla Sault and Dayna Sault (Lloyd S. King Elementary School) and unfortunately Samantha Miller and Vaughn Montour of Oliver M. Smith-Kawenni io  School had a late bus arrival and were unable to open in the Mohawk Language. A special thank you, nya:weh goes to the Pen Pal Committee for their time, effort and enthusiasm in supporting this program. They are: Scot Cooper, Stuart Brown, Leslie Cochran, Roxanne Wilkieson, Catherine Jamieson, Ashley Maracle, Andrea Hill, Joelle McNeil, Deneen Montour, Caroline VanEvery-Albert, Dianne Woods, Candy Browatzke, Paula Laing, Catherine Silverglen, Kelly Temple, Andrea Davis, Phil Carter, Patty Doxtdator-Hill and Suzie Miller.