Animki Wadjiw Equaywuq Drum Group at opening ceremonies

Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek - “This is a monumental step forward for my First Nation. Our first building will be the heart of our community; we will gather here for generations to come. We are thankful for the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s assistance to realize our community’s dream,” states Chief Theresa Nelson, Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek. Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinabek celebrated the first building to appear on their new Lake Nipigon Reserve. Thanks to a $50,000 grant from Ontario Trillium Foundation, Thunder Bay-Superior North MPP Michael Gravelle was on hand to unveil a new picnic shelter, which will provide the community with much needed protection during meetings and events.

Ribbon Cutting – AZA Community Planning Committee with MPP Michael Gravelle and Chief Theresa Nelson

Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek Celebrates

The picnic shelter will instill a great sense of pride in community members as they realize the progress in establishing a presence on their land. It is the first of many buildings to come and will serve as a focal point for members to gather together to revive their culture and traditions.

“I’m delighted to share in this special day, and very proud that the Ontario Trillium Foundation has invested in this historic first building here on the Lake Nipigon Reserve. I know that this structure will be fundamental to helping build a strong and prosperous future for this community, and I congratulate everyone who has played a part in making this dream a reality,” said Michael Gravelle, MPP Thunder Bay-Superior North.

Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek celebrated the creation of their new landbase – Lake Nipigon Reserve in May of 2008. Since then, AZA has worked to complete a Comprehensive Community Plan to strategically develop the reserve. Community members come together annually to feast and celebrate the rich culture and heritage.

A leading grant-maker in Canada, the Ontario Trillium Foundation strengthens the capacity of the voluntary sector through investments in community-based initiatives. An agency of the Government of Ontario, OTF builds healthy and vibrant communities.