Intergenerational Healing: The Role of Culture and Community in Trauma Recovery
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About the Episode
In this episode of United Way’s Do Local Good podcast, hosts Natalie Steffl and Rahma Dalmar explore the lasting impact of intergenerational trauma and the pathways to healing with special guest Pamela Spurvey, an Indigenous Wellness Coordinator and facilitator with United Way’s Empower U program. Pamela shares her personal journey of mental health recovery and addiction healing, emphasizing the vital role of cultural connection, financial empowerment, and community support in breaking cycles of trauma.
This conversation sheds light on the challenges families face when working toward reconciliation and recovery, offering a hopeful perspective on how cultural inclusion and community-driven programs like Empower U can foster resilience, understanding, and connection.
Featured Programs and Resources
Empower U is a financial empowerment program that helps participants increase their knowledge, tools and access to resources to meet their financial goals.
211 Alberta is an essential service that helps Albertans find the right resource or service for whatever issue they need help with, at the right time. Access local resources by calling 211, texting INFO to 211, or chatting online.
Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society is committed to building upon the strengths of Aboriginal Children, youth and families to enable them to grow spiritually, emotionally, physically and mentally so that they can walk proudly in both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities.
Boys & Girls Clubs Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton & Area Society provides safe supportive spaces and positive mentoring relationships where young people experience new opportunities and develop confidence and skills for life.
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Get Involved with GenNEXT
United Way’s GenNEXT is a volunteer-led initiative designed to inspire the next generation of leaders to drive meaningful change in our community.
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Read About it
Discover how healing in Indigenous and marginalized communities is rooted in interconnected relationships, cultural traditions, and community strength, as shared by Pamela Spurvey.
Learn MoreSpecial Acknowledgments
We extend our deepest thanks to hosts Natalie Steffl and Rahma Dalmar for leading this meaningful discussion and to Pamela Spurvey for courageously sharing her story and insights. We also thank Brett Eigner for the content support he provided.
Special thanks to all Empower U facilitators, Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society, BGCBigs Edmonton & Area, and all other partners working alongside us to build resilient, connected communities.
Lastly, we express our gratitude to our listeners for joining us on this journey to explore the role of culture and community in trauma recovery.
