Dze Ḻ K’ant Friendship Centre
Welcome
The Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre provides a number of quality services to the Aboriginal community. These services support people on their journey to become more self-sufficient and self-reliant. The Friendship Centre also dedicates time and resources to promoting awareness among Aboriginal people. Cultural pride, cultural identity, and confidentiality are the pillars of our organization.
Here at the Friendship Centre we strive to provide an environment where all Aboriginal people can belong. Whether you are a youth, elder, adult, or mother-to-be – in need of confidential assistance for major road blocks in your life or are simply looking for ways to improve your life skills – everyone is welcome at the Friendship Centre. We are a non-judgemental community with only acceptance in mind.
Please feel free to visit our site to learn more about the services we provide to our local community and the region. If you feel that our services could benefit you or someone close to you, please feel free to contact us. Our doors are always open at the Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre – we are waiting to hear from you.
The latest from our Blog
Ground Blessing Ceremony to Mark the Beginning of the New Houston Friendship Centre
For Immediate Release The Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society is pleased to announce a ground blessing ceremony for the new Houston Friendship...
Dze L K’ant Housing Society Tours Ken’ulh K’it Yikh Housing Currently in Construction
For Immediate Release Traditional Cas Yikh Territory - Smithers, B.C., On February 20, 2025 – The Board of Directors and staff of the Dze L K’ant...
Dze L K’ant Housing Society
In 2019, the Dze L k’ant Friendship Centre Society incorporated a new housing society: The Dze L K’ant Housing Society. The Dze L K’ant Housing Society was created to own and operate culturally safe Indigenous housing in the communities we serve.
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Dze L K'ant Friendship Centre Society
The Dze L K'ant Friendship Centre is a community-based organization founded in 1974 by a devoted group of Aboriginals in Smithers, British Columbia. The name Dze L K'ant was chosen. It means “Foot of the Mountain".
Launch of the Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society Organization Chart![]()
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The Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society is pleased to announce the launch of its organization chart, created in partnership with Indigenous artist Carla Duffey. This visual representation of our organizational structure is not just a tool for understanding our programs and services; it embodies the principles of Indigenous laws and reflects our commitment to community, collaboration, and cultural integrity.![]()
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Supporting Indigenous Laws Through Visual Representation![]()
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The organization chart serves as a powerful visual tool that aligns with the core values of Indigenous laws, including respect, reciprocity, and collective responsibility. Here’s how this visual supports Indigenous laws:![]()
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1. Cultural Representation: The use of Indigenous artistry in the chart is a reflection of our cultural identity. Carla Duffey’s artwork honors the traditions and histories of our people, reinforcing the importance of embedding cultural elements into our organizational framework. This practice respects the diverse identities of the Indigenous communities we serve.![]()
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2. Holistic Framework: The organization chart showcases various programs and services, such as Early Childhood Education (ECE), Youth Programs, Mental Health Services, and Housing Support. This holistic approach aligns with Indigenous laws, which emphasize the interconnectedness of all aspects of life. By presenting our offerings in this manner, we acknowledge that health, education, and community well-being are intertwined.![]()
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3. Self-Determination: The chart highlights our commitment to the right to self-determine, as outlined in Indigenous law. By showcasing diverse programs, we empower individuals and families to access the resources they need to thrive in their communities. This approach reinforces the idea that community members have the agency to choose the services that best align with their needs and aspirations.![]()
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4. Collaboration and Community: The organizational structure illustrates the collaborative spirit of our work. It emphasizes the roles of Elders, Traditional Knowledge Keepers, volunteers, and team members, creating a sense of collective responsibility. This mirrors Indigenous laws that prioritize community engagement and the sharing of knowledge, ensuring that decisions are made with the input and wisdom of those who are impacted.![]()
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5. Connection to Ancestry: The inclusion of references to ancestors and cultural practices in the chart underscores the importance of honoring those who came before us. By integrating ancestral wisdom into our organizational framework, we acknowledge the teachings that guide our work and strengthen our resolve to serve our communities with integrity.![]()
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The launch of the Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society’s organization chart, in partnership with Carla Duffey, is a significant step towards visually representing our commitment to Indigenous laws, cultural integrity, and community empowerment. We believe that this chart will not only enhance understanding of our services but also inspire a deeper connection to the values and traditions that shape our work. Together, we can continue to build a vibrant and inclusive community that honors our heritage and supports the well-being of Indigenous peoples.
TAG your family 💕![]()
COUNTDOWN; 5 Days !!![]()
An incredible indigenous story …. ![]()
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Welcome Samantha Doxtator: An Exploration of Celestial Wisdom![]()
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We are thrilled to welcome Samantha Doxtator, an esteemed Indigenous knowledge keeper and storyteller, for a powerful exploration of the stars as a source of ancestral wisdom and guidance. With a deep connection to her heritage, Samantha brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to her teachings, drawing from the rich traditions of her ancestors.![]()
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In this captivating session, Samantha will share stories and teachings that illuminate how the stars have long served as roadmaps for navigating challenges, understanding identity, and reconnecting with our roots. Through her engaging storytelling, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the celestial bodies that have guided Indigenous peoples for generations.![]()
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This session invites participants to delve into the profound layers of celestial knowledge, uncovering how these teachings can inspire personal growth and collective healing. By understanding the significance of the stars in Indigenous cultures, we can foster a greater sense of identity and connection to the world around us.![]()
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Join us for this enlightening experience and take part in the exploration of how ancestral wisdom can inform our contemporary lives. ![]()
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Pre-registration is encouraged! To save your spot, please visit our office and speak with Elizabeth or Selena, or feel free to stop by and secure your place in this transformative session.![]()
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We look forward to seeing you there! 🌌✨![]()
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#samanthadoxtator #CelestialWisdom #IndigenousKnowledge #storytelling #dzelkantfriendshipcentre #personalgrowth #collectivehealing
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ![]()
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June 20th, 2025![]()
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Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society Receives Generous Donations on National Indigenous Peoples Day Toward Artwork for New Houston Friendship Centre Building![]()
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Smithers, BC – The Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society is proud to announce that it has received a generous donation of $62,000 from the Bulkley Valley Credit Union (BVCU) during the National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration. This funding is designated for the development of culturally significant artwork for the new Friendship Centre building in Houston, which will serve as a vibrant hub for Indigenous culture and community support.![]()
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"We are deeply grateful to the Bulkley Valley Credit Union for their commitment to supporting Indigenous peoples and promoting healing and reconciliation within our community," said Nox Stikine, Annette Morgan, Executive Director of the Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society. “This donation not only enhances our new facility but also reflects a strong partnership built on mutual respect and understanding.”![]()
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The donation will facilitate the hiring of talented Wet'suwet'en artist Stephanie Anderson, who will create stunning carved panels at the entrance of the new facility, as well as mural art that will wrap around the building. These artistic installations will symbolize Indigenous resilience, hope, and strength, while honouring the territory and fostering cultural pride among community members. This donation will help create an environment that promotes cultural connection and provides essential services to those in need.![]()
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"We have been in conversations with the Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre since 2021 about ways that BVCU can stand alongside the Indigenous community, residential school survivors, and all those impacted by the residential school system. Together, we committed to partnering on a future initiative that would reflect truth, healing, and resilience,” said Jana Lukasek, CEO of the Bulkley Valley Credit Union. “The idea of supporting Indigenous artwork for the new Houston Friendship Centre emerged as a powerful and shared vision. BVCU is honoured to be able to support the Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre — an organization that plays a vital role in the well-being and cultural strength of the communities we serve."![]()
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Today, the Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre is pleased to announce that the project’s general contractor, Westwind Enterprises Ltd., has offered a generous in-kind donation to cover the installation costs of the artwork. Murray Vetsch, President of Westwind Enterprises, says: “Westwind is pleased to contribute to this beautiful expression of Indigenous artwork. These pieces are going to make this new space truly a landmark in the community of Houston.”![]()
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Lydia Howard, Housing and Development Advisor for Dze L K’ant, and project coordinator states: “We are proud that our new building is being constructed by a local company and that all trades are local to the Bulkley Valley. On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff at the Friendship Centre, we would also like to express our appreciation to Westwind Enterprises for their generous donation. This offer of support exemplifies the collaborative spirit that is essential for creating meaningful change in the community.”![]()
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As we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day, we recognize the importance of honouring our cultural heritage and creating spaces that reflect our shared values and identities. The artwork created through this initiative will serve as a lasting reminder of our history and the ongoing journey of reconciliation.![]()
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For more information about the Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society and its initiatives, please contact:![]()
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Annette Morgan, Executive Director![]()
Dze L K’ant Friendship Centre Society