Inter-Community Girls, Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Volleyball League: Institut Tshakapesh
Sport for Social Development in Indigenous Communities Funding Stream: Stream Three
Location: Quebec
Funding for the Sport for Social Development in Indigenous Communities (SSDIC) program is delivered through three streams. For Stream Three, funding is available annually to Indigenous governments, communities and other not-for-profit Indigenous organizations that specifically support sport, physical activity and recreation projects serving Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ peoples.
About the project
Rooted in the Innu Nation’s ancestral values of Ashineun (Pride), Ishpitenitamun (Respect), Uaitshitun (Mutual Aid), Matinueitun (Sharing), and E Minu-Tapishinnanut (Interdependence), the Institut Tshakapesh (in French only) is using sport to build stronger, more connected communities.
A highlight of their programming is the inter-community volleyball league, which brings together women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ peoples from neighboring communities. The league encourages participants to be active, compete, and form lasting relationships. It emphasizes not only the physical benefits of sports but also their important role in promoting social well-being.
Social development goals
- Physical and mental health
- Suicide prevention
- Safe and healthy relationships
- Sexual positivity (2SLGBTQI+)
Impact
The volleyball program at the Institut Tshakapesh is working to reduce isolation by providing a safe and positive environment for girls, women, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals to play and connect. Beyond the court, participants gain a stronger sense of belonging while building confidence and self-esteem—all through the power of sport.
To learn more about the SSDIC program, please see our website and subscribe to our newsletter.