Reflecting on Truth and Reconciliation
As I reflect on Truth and Reconciliation Day, I’m reminded of an experience from my youth that deeply impacted me. When I was 13, I traveled with a group of teens and leaders to Kispiox, home to the Gitxsan Nation in northern British Columbia. We were there to run a summer camp, and I was struck by both the beauty of the community and the hardships faced, including poverty and addiction. The resilience of the children we worked with left a lasting impression on me and instilled a desire to see a better future for Indigenous communities—one rooted in healing, understanding, and opportunity.
That’s why this day is important to me personally, and why it aligns deeply with the mission of GiveWise. Our vision is to empower people of any means to be intentional and informed donors, to see the effective change they create, and to experience joy through their giving. As an organization, we believe that learning about the past and supporting initiatives that bring healing and reconciliation can create the kind of positive, lasting change that transforms communities.
The work of reconciliation isn’t just about looking back; it’s about moving forward together with hope. Over the years, as I’ve learned more about Canada’s history with Indigenous peoples, I’ve been encouraged by the incredible initiatives leading us toward healing. The stories of resilience and the efforts to foster understanding are proof that change is happening, and that there is hope for a better, more just future.
Honouring Growth, Learning, and Healing
We are witnessing tremendous growth and learning across society as more people engage in conversations about reconciliation. At GiveWise, we want to honour the remarkable work being done by organizations that are supporting Indigenous communities, raising awareness, and creating opportunities for healing.
Here are some impactful charities leading the way:
-
Reconciliation Canada – Founded by Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, this organization promotes healing and understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, with programs that foster reconciliation and unity. Donate to Reconciliation Canada.
-
The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund (DWF) – Inspired by Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack, this fund promotes education and awareness, helping build connections between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. Donate to DWF.
-
One Day's Pay – This initiative invites Canadians to donate a day’s pay on September 30 to support Indigenous-led organizations working toward reconciliation. It's a collective action to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by making an impactful contribution. Donate to One Day’s Pay
-
The Moose Hide Campaign – This movement aims to end violence against women and children, particularly Indigenous women, by engaging men and boys in discussions about respect and action. Donate to the Moose Hide Campaign.
How You Can Engage
There are many ways to engage with Truth and Reconciliation Day beyond giving. Consider attending events in your local area, watching this video, which explores how Canada took thousands of Indigenous children from their parents between the 1960s and 1980s—effects that are still being felt today—or listening to survivor stories through A Day to Listen. For deeper learning, explore free online courses such as Indigenous Canada or Four Seasons of Reconciliation.
At GiveWise, we’re committed to creating space for these important conversations. As a team, we’ll be reflecting on what we’ve learned and how we can support reconciliation not only in our work but also in our personal lives. This is not about obligation; it’s an invitation to all of us to continue learning, growing, and walking this path together.
We also encourage our GiveWise community to participate in this journey. Whether it’s through supporting these impactful charities, attending events, or learning more about Indigenous history and perspectives, each step you take contributes to creating lasting, positive change.
Tammy Kyte, Executive Director