Programs and Services
Health Promotion and Physical Literacy Program

Health Promotion and Physical Literacy Program

The Health Promotion and Physical Activity team supports member Nations to build active, healthy and connected lifestyles through movement, recreation, sport and land-based activities for all ages.

At a Glance
The Health Promotion and Physical Activity team supports member Nations to build active, healthy and connected lifestyles through movement, recreation, sport and land-based activities for all ages.

Who's It for

  • Community members of any age
  • People who want more opportunities in recreation, sport and wellness
  • People who need support in rehabilitation

Where It's Offered

  • Programming in the 11 CSFS Member Nations
  • Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy services are provided in the community Health Centres
  • Activities in community halls, schools, outdoor spaces and community sport and recreation programs
  • Some urban programming in nearby towns when resources (such as pools, rinks) are not available in community

What We Help With

  • Support with physical literacy and movement for all ages
  • Physiotherapy
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Recreation, sport and play-based programs
  • Health promotion related to active living, mental wellness and nutrition

How To Access

  • Connect with the Health Promotion and Physical Activity team
  • Speak with your community health team
  • Self-refer, ask another CSFS program area to connect you to Health Promotion and Physical Activity, doctor, or nurse referral
  • Watch for posters, social media and community notices about upcoming programs

About the Program

The Health Promotion and Physical Activity department is located within the Carrier Sekani Family Services (CSFS) Primary Care and Rehabilitation teams. The program is dedicated to advancing recreation and physical activity for Member Nations. The team provides access to an integrated model of services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, physical literacy, coaching, recreation and fitness support for the 11 First Nations communities CSFS serves.

Who This Serves

  • Infants, children and youth who are learning to move, play and participate in sport
  • Adults and Elders who want to stay active, strong and connected to community
  • Families who want to be active together in safe, fun and culturally grounded ways
  • Band recreation staff and community leaders who are building local recreation and wellness programs

Eligibility

Programming is designed for:

  • Members of the 11 First Nations communities served by CSFS
  • Community members of all ages, from infants to Elders
  • People of all activity levels, including those who are new to movement or sport
  • Details about who each program is for and how to join are shared with communities before programs begin.

How We Can Support You

Building skills in fundamental movement, recreation, play and sport for all ages
Supporting Band recreation staff to design, enhance and lead sport, recreation and play-based physical activity programs
Incorporating the five R’s of restorative approaches — relationship, respect, responsibility, repair and integration— into program design
Working with other CSFS program areas to include physical literacy, active living and movement in health and wellness programs
Collaborating with communities on land-based physical literacy programs, including traditional activities such as hunting, fishing, trapping, berry picking and medicine harvesting
Promoting healthy eating and meal planning that prioritizes traditional sources of nutrition

How to Access Support

You can connect with the Health Promotion and Physical Activity team by:

  • Asking Band recreation staff or community health staff to connect you
  • Contacting the Health Promotion and Physical Activity team directly by phone or email
  • Responding to community notices, posters or social media about upcoming activities and programs

Self-referral is welcome. You do not need previous experience in sport or activity to take part.

Meet the Team

Amy Merritt

Director of Health Promotion and Physical Activity
250-640-0837
amy@csfs.org

Dana Thorne

Physical Literacy Lead
672-983-7877
dthorne@csfs.org

Mutann Cardinal

Physiotherapist
250-692-1444

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you create and facilitate programs for communities?
The team offers a wide range of programs, from traditional team sports to cultural and land-based activities to mindfulness and wellness programs. Staff listen to the wants and needs of each community and design programming based on that feedback.
Is your programming based in CSFS communities?
Whenever possible, yes. The team primarily offers programs in CSFS Member Nations and has also supported urban programming, such as Learn to Skate in Vanderhoof and Hockey Camp in Fraser Lake
Can I participate without any experience?
Yes. People of all levels and abilities are encouraged to participate.
Can I bring a friend or family member?
Yes. Some programs may require advance notice or registration and this information is shared in advance.
Can CSFS help with gear, equipment or transportation?
These needs are considered during planning. Supports such as gear, equipment or transportation may be available depending on the program and resources. Contact our team with specific questions.

Contacts and Locations

Director of Health Promotion and Physical Activity
250-640-0837
amy@csfs.org

Physical Literacy Lead
672-983-7877
dthorne@csfs.org

Burns Lake Physiotherapy Office

250-692-1444

Physiotherapist
250-692-1444

Health Promotion and Physical Activity Office (Prince George)

1272 3rd Ave, Prince George, British Columbia (BC), V2L 3E7

Monday - Sunday: 24/7

Burns Lake Physiotherapy Office

405-545 Highway 16 West, Burns Lake, BC

Monday - Sunday: 24/7

Note: Programs are held in CSFS Member Nations and nearby communities, including:

  • Community halls
  • Day care centres
  • Schools
  • Outdoor spaces
  • Community sport and recreation facilities

Program dates, times and locations are shared through community notices, posters and local communication channels.

Submit an Event

Event Submission Form
Time of Event

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