BCAAFC

About BC Friendship Centres

The BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC) is the umbrella association for the 25 Friendship Centres throughout the Province of British Columbia.

The Friendship Centre Movement began in the 1950s. The movement represents a national network, united by the vision of a vibrant society that supports Indigenous peoples and a brighter future in Canada.

Friendship Centres are community hubs. They offer culturally safe programs and services, and provide a welcoming space for all members of the community to share knowledge and connect with others.

Vision

The BCAAFC is an innovative organization working collaboratively with its member centres and partners to support urban Indigenous people as they realize their vision of health, wellness, and prosperity.

Mission

Our mission is to advance the Friendship Centre Movement in BC through advocacy and the delivery of programs and services that support the growth and prosperity of our member centers and urban Indigenous people.

The BCAAFC works to:

• Promote the betterment of Friendship Centres in the Province of British Columbia.

• Maintain communication between Friendship Centres, other provincial associations and the National Association of Friendship Centres.

• Act as a unifying body for Friendship Centres.

• Advise the government, as requested by the collective centres.

• Support the development of programs to improve the quality of life for Indigenous people living in BC.

Quick facts:

• There are 25 Friendship Centres located throughout BC, and over 100 Friendship Centres located across Canada.

• Reports indicate that 78% of the Indigenous peoples in B.C. live off-reserve or in urban areas, it is estimated that the true number is closer to 85%.

• Collectively, BC Friendship Centres employ over 1,200 people and have over 600 community partnerships.

• BC Friendship Centres have over 60 years of history supporting the health, wellness and prosperity of urban Indigenous peoples and communities.

• The BC Friendship Centre Movement began with the formation of the Coqualeetza Fellowship Club in 1954. The Coqualeetza Fellowship Club was formed to provide support to Indigenous students moving to Vancouver. In 1963, the Coqualeetza Fellowship Club changed its title to the Vancouver Indian Centre Society, recognized as a place for all Indigenous peoples transitioning into Vancouver’s urban setting.

Territory Acknowledgement

We acknowledge with respect and gratitude the Lkwungen-speaking (Songhees and Esquimalt) and the WSÁNEĆ (Saanich) peoples, the traditional keepers of this land, for allowing us to work, play and reside on their traditional and unceded territory.

Thank You to Our Funders and Partners