Our Vision & Approach

Beringia’s vision is to support Indigenous and First Nations’ aspirations to strengthen community health, cultural recognition, land stewardship and economic independence for current and future generations. Our four service areas are based on an approach founded on principles of community development, social inclusion, collaboration, participatory action, transformative learning and respect for culture.

Community-Led Planning

Beringia brings an innovative, holistic and integrative approach to its participatory, community-led planning practice. We focus on building long-lasting relationships based on respect, learning, friendship and connection. We encourage individual (children, youth, adults and Elders), family, community and Council’s perspectives in making decisions about process and priorities at community and Nation levels, for present and future generations.

Culturally Centered

Our community-based approach integrates local culture, history, knowledge, values, customs and storytelling based on recognition and strength. We invite cultural celebration throughout the complete planning cycle, both in process design and delivery, and in planning documentation and communication.

Learning Focused

Creating mutual learning environments through mentorship, skills transfer and knowledge exchange are fundamental to our planning practice. We empower community members through strong information sharing, communication and engagement as well as inspire community capacity.

Responsive & Fun

Community-led planning for the community, by the community needs to be fun and responsive. We acknowledge the opportunity for fun and humour during community engagement, and that the process of planning must be guided by the rhythms of social needs, cultural protocols and harvesting cycles in each community.

About

Founded in 1998, Beringia works with Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, Inuit and Urban Aboriginal) governments, communities and agencies to support comprehensive, holistic and interdisciplinary approaches and processes to community-led planning based on 8 principles.

Core principles that guide our work

• We honour and respect Indigenous cultures, histories, peoples, languages, knowledges and customs

• We practice a strength-based approach with recognition, gratitude and humility

• We believe that inclusive, collaborative decision processes build strong connection and trust

• We seek lasting relationships with integrity, understanding and joy