Elk Valley Resources (EVR) and Hope and Health are happy to announce a new five-year partnership dedicated to advancing opportunities for Indigenous children and youth across British Columbia.

EVR’s partnership investment will directly support Hope and Health’s Nautsa’mawt FC Academy. The Academy connects driven Indigenous youth soccer players across the province with a network of mentors, coaches, and exclusive development experiences applying a “champions for life” holistic development philosophy.

“We’re proud to partner with Hope and Health to help create meaningful opportunities for Indigenous youth and commend them for the important work they do to empower and engage through sport and mentorship,” said Mike Carrucan, CEO, EVR.

This partnership goes beyond funding—it is an investment in confidence, pride, and leadership through sport. Together, EVR and Hope and Health will work to create meaningful opportunities for Indigenous youth to thrive, dream big, and embrace their potential.

“This partnership with EVR is about more than supporting programs—it is about walking the path of reconcili-action together,” said Deana Gill, CEO of Hope and Health.

“We recognize EVR’s commitment t o responsible resource development and meaningful partnerships with Indigenous Peoples. By joining forces, we can demonstrate how the industry can play a vital role in uplifting Indigenous youth—creating opportunities to build pride, confidence, and pathways to achieve their dreams through the beautiful game.”

The Nautsa’mawt FC Academy creates spaces of belonging, mentorship, development, access and opportunity for Indigenous athletes within a safe and culturally honouring community. The Academy is delivered virtually and in person, and includes the opportunity to participate in an annual Sport for Development Purpose Tour for team travel and unique adventure-based learning.

Through this partnership, EVR’s 2025 investment in the Nautsa’mawt FC Academy will ensure female academy members have the opportunity to travel to Richmond to participate in the upcoming Big Fire Summit from November 25 – 28.

The Big Fire Summit is the culminating event of the Fire Keeper Action Leadership Program, which is a 10-month journey. This vital support removes barriers to access and enables young Indigenous women to step into spaces of leadership, vision, and community impact.

To learn more about the Big Fire Summit and witness this good work in action, visit Hope and Health on Instagram.

Photo submitted

Elk Valley Resources

Article Share