The Chako Kunamokst Rediscovery Camp is a personal empowerment program for native and non-native youth, ages 12 to 18 years old. The camps are located on Nuxalk Nation ancestral isolated village sites, accessible by boat or charter plane only. Youth are away from technology, drugs, peer pressure and junk food thus given opportunity to become, or become reacquainted, with the land and spirituality. The participants learn, grow and heal in a wilderness setting by utilizing traditional First Nations culture and other activities.

Participants take part in daily camp chores as well as: wilderness survival skills, lessons on respecting the environment, traditional food gathering, cultural song and dance, elder storytelling, journal writing, arts, crafts and outings. At the end of each day, everyone gathers at Council Fire where issues can be discussed and resolved with group input. At the end of the program session, the camp takes part in group solos or voluntary individual solos. A "solo" is considered the highest form of achievement by the participants; it's often viewed as a rite of passage. 

Family is welcome to attend the closing ceremony at the end of camp. A feast is prepared, cultural songs and dances are performed by the participants and gifts are given away.

The Chako Kunamokst Rediscovery Camp is run indirectly under the umbrella of the Nuxalk Nation Wellness Program. The Rediscovery organizer works to secure funds yearly though agencies, donations and other sources. A goal is to find new dollars to develop and expand the camp, have the sessions run for longer periods and provide training for staff.

Chako Kunamokst Rediscovery began in 1984 in Kimsquit, on the traditional territory of the Nuxalk Nation at the mouth of the Dean River.

"Chako Kunamokst" is a Chinook Jargon word for a gathering place.

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SUMMER 2008 SESSIONS

Session 1: July 4-15 = 10 days at Kimsquit, Dean Camp.  The closing ceremony will be held at the camp.

Session 2: July 14-24 = 10 days at Kimsquit, Dean Camp.  The closing ceremony will be held in Bella Coola.

Session 3: July 29-August 4 = 5 days.  A Family session held at Camp II Bay and Hotsprings.

For more information, please contact:

Tina Clellamin, Rediscovery Organizer

P.O. Box 65

Bella Coola BC V0T 1C0