Trailblazer, COMM nity builder, storyteller. These are just some of the words used to describe Allison Fisher, the much-lauded executive director of Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health. Just as elders are the stewards of story-telling and tradition, it isn’t hard to see why Fisher is revered for her dedication 4111111b to creating a safe space for First Nations, Inuit and Metis in the nation’s capital,
Joining Wabano shortly after it opened its doors on Montreal Road in 1998, Fisher is its heart and soul and biggest champion and was instrumental in leading the centre’s $18-million. 25.000-square-foot expansion in 2013. Serving 15,000 Indigenous clients a year, Wabano’s holistic approach to health care emphasizes the importance of nurturing the mind, body and spirit through its medical, dental. chiropractic. mental health and maternal wellness clinics and cultural. social enterprise and teen pr ograms.
It is much more than an urban health centre. though, and promotes pride in ancestry, peace, social justice. the wisdom of elders and traditional ceremonies. Through her tenacity and charm. Fisher has transformed the tiny grassroots organization into an award-winning cultural, spiritual and health care centre that is more than just bricks and mortar. With 90 full-time staff and over 400 active volunteers.
Fisher has partnered with community agencies, schools and governments on a number of initiatives to bring together Aboriginal and non-aboriginal people. “I want people to walk through this beautiful space and feel at home when they see the faces of their communities on our walls through art and photographs.
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