Welcome to June! As this weekly email coincides with the start of the month, we've combined the monthly release of the Mazinigan within it. Be sure to scroll down so you don't miss info about the Children's Powwow happening at the end of the week, along with Thunderbird Trust's AGM on Saturday.

June Mazinigan

This month's issue is packed with important updates for our community, including information about a new Hydro One Equity Partnership Agreement, the 2025 Consolidated Audits, recruitment of Board of Directors for Deshkan Ziibiing Investment Corporation (DZIC), Summer Student Employment opportunities, Transitional Support Fund, Specialized Services Intake, the Hunter Education Program, and Board of Education Updates.

Also, don't forget to Save the Date: June 19, a Community Celebration is being planned; more information to come soon.


We hope this issue finds you and your families well. Enjoy the read!

Ntam-giizhigad (Monday) - June 1

Men's Group

Looking for a relaxed space to connect, share a meal, and enjoy good conversation? Join us for our Men’s Drop-In Series—where community, laughter, and great food come together. Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Location: Employment and Training Portable (328 Chippewa Rd). To register, call Greg at (519) 878-0949. Hosted by the Child, Youth, Family Wellbeing Dept.

Community Family Language Nights

All community members and families are welcome to join! Sessions run every Monday from 5:30–7:30 PM at Enji Maajtaawaad Early Years, 330 Chippewa Rd. Hosted by the Anishinaabe'aadziwin Department and Enji Maajtaawaad Early Years — a meal is provided and all are welcome. A great opportunity to reconnect with our language and with each other.

Niizho-giizhgad (Tuesday) - June 2

Math Tutoring Available for High School Students — Every Tuesday

High school students taking Math this semester are invited to take advantage of free after-school tutoring every Tuesday from 5:00–7:00 PM at Antler River Elementary School, with a hot meal served at 4:30 PM. Hosted by Chippewas of the Thames First Nation — transportation is available for community members, and a registration form is required before attending. Contact Tyanna Soucy, Secondary Student Lead, at 519-289-0621 ext. 201 to get signed up.

Nso-giizhgad (Wednesday) - June 3

The Fairway is Calling — Get Out and Play With Us This Wednesday

Golfers in the COTTFN community are welcome to join another evening of friendly competition at the Chippewa Golf League this Wednesday at 5:00 PM. The league runs weekly at Wardsville Golf Club, 1948 Longwoods Rd., Wardsville, ON through September 9, 2026. Hosted by Chippewas of the Thames First Nation — no registration needed, just show up and play a discounted round.

Niiwo-giizhigad (Thursday) - June 4

Your ODSP Caseworker is Coming to You — Don't Miss Your Chance to Connect

Community members receiving or seeking ODSP support are encouraged to take advantage of on-site visits at the COTTFN Ontario Works office. Heather Wood (who is filling in for Sherry Steur on this day) will be available Thursday, June 4th from 8:30 AM–4:30 PM at 328 Chippewa Road. For inquiries outside this visit, Sherry Steur can be reached directly at 519-438-5111 Ext. 3193.

Naano-giizhgad (Friday) - June 5

Children's Powwow, 10AM - 2PM

Join us for a celebration of culture and community at the Antler River Elementary Children's Powwow. This family-friendly event will feature food, crafts and vendors. MC Gordan Sands, Host Drum Eagle Flight, Second Drum Good Fellowz, and featuring the Antler River Boys Drum Group. Head Dancers Roya Kechego and Travis Smith. Grand Entry at 10AM. Chippewa Ballpark

Admission is just $2 per person, with Elders (65+) and children under 3 admitted free. For more information, call (519) 289-1000.

A Warm Space to Connect and Find Support — Coffee Hour at the Recovery Support Group

If you or someone you know is on a recovery journey, this Friday's Coffee Hour is a space built for you — warm, safe, and free of judgment. The group meets every Friday from 5:30–7:00 PM at the Employment & Training Portable, facilitated by Westover Treatment staff Mike McGilvery. Showing up is the hardest part — for more information or to take that first step, reach out to Cynthia Tribe at 519-878-0165.

Ngodwaaso-giizhgad (Saturday) - June 6

Resume Workshop

Looking to update your resume or create one from scratch? Come by the Employment and Training portable (beside the Community Centre) from 1:30–2:30pm. A 30-minute presentation will cover resume and cover letter basics, formatting tips, professional wording, and what to include (and what to leave out). Drop-ins are welcome — no appointment necessary! For questions, contact etadmin@cottfn.com or call 519-962-8688.

Thunderbird Trust Annual General Meeting

The Thunderbird Trust invites community members to attend their 2026 Annual General Meeting, at the Seniors Complex. The morning kicks off with breakfast at 9:30 am, followed by a presentation of the 2025 Audit & Community Report, and wraps up with lunch and prizes. Documents are available upon request and can be mailed, emailed, or faxed. For more information or to request documents, contact the office at 519-264-2626 or email info@thunderbirdtrust.ca.

See you next week!

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