As part of National Indigenous History Month in June, we are sharing how Indigenous Community Connectors are helping people reconnect with culture.
Content warning: This story and accompanying video include personal experiences related to the Sixties Scoop, adoption, grief and intergenerational trauma. Viewer and reader discretion is advised.
“I lost everything. I lost my family. I lost my culture. I lost my language.”
For Flora Johnson, those words reflect a lifetime shaped by the Sixties Scoop.
Her story is deeply personal but also reflects the experiences of many Indigenous people whose connections to culture, language and community were disrupted across generations.
It’s why creating spaces where people feel seen, welcomed and connected is so important.
Building bridges through community
The Indigenous Community Connectors are part of the Community Hubs initiative, created through a partnership between United Way of Calgary and Area and The City of Calgary, with the Rotary Clubs of Calgary serving as a founding partner.
In response to community voices calling for more welcoming and culturally inclusive spaces, United Way with guidance from Indigenous Elders, introduced three Indigenous Community Connectors to support Indigenous individuals and families.
As part of a team of nine Community Connectors, they build trusted relationships, connect people to resources and opportunities, and create culturally grounded spaces where healing, belonging and community can flourish.
Through cultural workshops, traditional teachings, creativity and community gatherings, participants are reconnecting with culture, strengthening relationships and finding opportunities to heal together.
Flora Johnson who facilitates the Indigenous Connectors knows how powerful they are.
“I love what I do and connecting with people.”
With the help of generous supporters of United Way, the Community Hubs initiative engaged nearly 70 thousand individuals in 2025.
To learn more about Community Hubs and find a Connector in your community, visit our Community Hubs page.
