Attending the 40th Annual Elders Gathering

The Salvation Army was delighted to attend the 40th Annual BC Elders Gathering; held in Williams Lake and hosted by the Tl’etinqox, one of six Tsilhqot’in communities, along with their united support from the Tsilhqot’in (Chilcotin), Secwepemc (Shuswap), Dene (Carrier), St’at’imc (Lillooet Nation), and Nuxalk (Bella Coola).

Pictured with the King and Queen of the gathering were L to R; Major Shari Russel, Captain Lisa Macpherson, James Lulua Sr., Dinah (Solomon) and Lt. Colonel Jim Champ.

The purpose of the event is to advance education in the histories, cultures and ways of aboriginal communities and in the experiences and contributions of community elders.  The Gathering was an opportunity for the younger generation to assist the Elders in shaping the program and to benefit from the history and experience of the Elders.  Shari Russel, Territorial Indigenous Ministries Consultant, The Salvation Army explained. "The events included a Totem Pole unveiling, fashion show, Elder Care, Arts and Crafts and Elders Talent Show.  The Gathering was an opportunity to build relationships, recognize contributions and appreciate the value that the Elders have to share with their youth".