THUNDER BAY — Pointing out the value the facility has for Indigenous children, Matawa First Nations Management has announced a $20,000 contribution to the Underground Gym and Youth Centre.
"They have invested in members of our communities who live in Thunder Bay for over 20 years," Matawa CEO David Paul Achneepineskum said Tuesday. "Our youth and children continue to choose them to spend their time with because they feel welcomed, supported and accommodated."
The Underground Gym provides free access to multiple activities for youth in need and is dedicated to promoting and teaching fitness, healthy lifestyles, self-confidence and self-respect.
Programs include gym and fitness; music, art and jewellery; games and learning; kitchen; and winter/summer activities.
Achneepineskum noted that about 5,000 members of Matawa First Nations communities currently reside in Thunder Bay, including a large number of youths.
"Matawa is about helping our people. Whether they live in our communities or whether they live here in the city ... We have helped Shelter House in the past with a similar amount, and we're here to help others as well," he said.
Approximately 90 per cent of the Underground Gym's participants are Indigenous, and Achneepineskum believes one-quarter of those are Matawa members.
"You know, word gets around that there is a service organization that's going to welcome them. I know from our board of directors, that they have their grandchildren and children participating."
He called on other Indigenous organizations in Thunder Bay to provide support, saying "This is our home as well...so we've got to participate in the city in terms of helping out wherever we can. We can't just rely on other organizations to help our people. We've got to do it ourselves too."
Peter Panetta, the founder of the Underground Gym and Youth Centre, welcomed the funding announcement.
"It's not every day that we get this kind of substantial amount, and without having core funding, this investment will be put towards our programming and future aspirations."
Panetta said the plans for the future include renovating the second floor of the Victoria Avenue facility and using it in conjunction with labour unions to teach skilled trades.
Teachers could also be brought into help youths complete their high school education, he said.
