History of the Hub
The Toronto Hub of Children of the Earth was created following an international retreat, hosted by Diane Longboat's organization, Soul of the Mother. The Toronto Hub was founded September 21, 2008.
During the International Retreat, the Youth:
- Gathered to engage in the sacred ceremonies of the Mohawk people
- Paid homage to the ancestors
- Partook in a Non-Violent Facilitation training led by COE Board Member, Ken Hood, PhD.
- Outlined their vision for the creation of local initiatives
- Participated in a day long event organized by Fr. Terry Gallagher
- Spoke of their experiences with Soul of the Mother to Greater Toronto Youth who were gathered at the Multi-Faith Center at the University of Toronto
- Lead discussions on the theme of "Spiritual Activism"
Results of International Retreat:
- Email network formed
- Informal gatherings to keep momentum
- Beginning of Toronto Hub
Accomplishments:
- September 16-21, 2008: Soul of the Mother Retreat Brantford, Ontario.
- October 25, 2008: Multi-Faith Youth Gathering & Follow-up meeting.
- November 8, 2008: Potluck Celebration with speaker on Spiritual Nutrition.
- March 6, 2009: Return of The Monk: An evening with Lama Tenzin Prayadarshi.
- September 27, 2009: Awakening The Dreamer Symposium.
- November 18, 2009 Trip to a former residential school
- December 5, 2009 Fundraiser for Soul of the Mother
2010 Goals:
- Hold 10 monthly meetings at the Multi-Faith Center of University of Toronto beginning January 9, 2010. These meetings will include spiritual discourse and leadership training followed by a volunteer initiative meant to engage the community in a spirit of selfless service.
- Partner with community organizations committed to alleviating local poverty through education.
- Organize a weekend retreat on Six Nations with the grace and hospitality of Grandmother Sarah.
- Maintain a consistent membership base of ten people over the next year (December 2010).
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Organize one annual "Toronto Hub Retreat", away from the city.