In 2001, pow-wow dancers Gina and Warren Daniels opened their home to family and friends wanting to learn more about different styles of dancing and singing. News spread quickly through the community of the Cowessess First Nation. "There was so much interest that we could no longer accommodate everyone at our home," says Gina Daniels.

The couple developed the Cowessess First Nation Drum and Share Program to give youth the opportunity to learn about their cultural background in a structured setting. An open-door policy means no one is turned away. The local drum group teaches students to sing pow-wow songs and respect drum etiquette. Elders explain the history behind the different songs. Girls learn different styles of dance and learn how to bead and sew regalia. Parents are also involved, brushing up on their regalia-making skills and providing supper to all in attendance. The program continues to grow each year, with more than 60 participants attending the weekly sessions.

"We still have very shy young boys who are experimenting with their voices," says Daniels. The program's Little Child singers performed for the first time at the Cowessess First Nation Pow-wow in November 2010. "The success of these young singers was seen in the proud eyes of the parents, community members, and leadership."

Through teaching traditional practices, the program helps to steer youth away from negative habits and addictions. "Planting this seed at such a young age gives them the option to choose a better way of life for themselves," says Daniels. "To be able to help at least one child make the right choice makes this programming such a success."

The Cowessess First Nation Drum and Share Program is supported by an Indigenous Pathways Initiative - Arts Grant (Community Project).

Photo: Participants in the Cowessess First Nation Drum and Share Program. Photo: Carolyn Daniels