M’CHIGEENG––A pilot project to create positive interactions among youth with the police services in the community is one of the benefits of the Positive Ticket program. Heading up the program is Laurentian University grad Melissa Rogers who has her Bachelor of Social Work degree.
As a proud Band member Ms. Rogers leads the program as a way to give back to the community. The UCCM has been very supportive.
It is easy, as humans, to focus on the negative things in society including actions of our youth. This program is an opportunity to recognize and reward something positive, shared Ms Rogers who was among several representatives at the UCCM’s Positive Ticket project information table during National Aboriginal Day held this past weekend.
Elder Alma Jean Migwans took a few moments to promote the program during the Solstice celebrations, which included drumming and dancing.
“This is a way to help and honour one another,” shared Ms Migwans. “Let’s see how many good deeds are recognized during the year.”
Teachers, parents, First Nations staff, or community members can call the UCCM Anishnaabe Police to give a description of what was done as well as the name and school the youth attended (or other contact information).
The officer would then call and make arrangements to meet the youth and give them their ticket. The person who nominated the youth can be in attendance if they so wish. Each ticket will have a tear away portion with the youth’s name and contact number on it. This will be put into a monthly draw for a DS gaming system or an iPod.
A Positive Ticket can be given for many reasons. There is no such thing as something too small or too big. Some things that can be considered (but not limited to) are: improvements to your grades, helping an Elder (raking, cut grass, shovel snow), picking up garbage around the community, show a change in behaviour at school or home, stand up for a friend being bullied, volunteering, or showing leadership, just to name a few.
At the end of the year there will be a celebration for all the nominees. Community members and services are invited to join in.
The Positive Ticket program strives toward building safe communities, connecting communities, encouraging personal growth and promoting positive relationships.
Chief of Police for the UCCM Anishnaabe Police Service Rodney Nahwegahbow stated “It’s both an honour and a pleasure to have the UCCM Police involved in this positive youth engagement activity. I realize that in order to build on the success of our future we must promote and recognize the positive actions of our youth today. It is our hope that M’Chigeeng community members will embrace the forthcoming opportunities of this program and take pride in the positive change that will result.”
by Sharon Jackson
