Red Deer Native Friendship Society

Red Deer Native Friendship Society is an Aboriginal non-profit charitable organization providing comprehensive culturally-based supports and services to Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Red Deer, AB. Since 1984, RDNFS has delivered specialized programs addressing critical community needs including housing support, family preservation, health services, education, and cultural connections across all age groups.

The organization operates multiple integrated programs designed to empower community members toward productive and rewarding lives. The Pimacihowin Housing program provides intensive case management and housing support to chronically homeless Indigenous individuals and families, emphasizing ceremony, traditional practice, and cultural healing. The Four Directions team utilizes Medicine Wheel teachings to support families and individuals, offering parenting tools, health awareness workshops, and family reunification services. Nanâtawihowin Cultural Connections delivers Indigenous cultural supports to staff, programs, partners, and the broader community, while the Indigenous Coordinated Entry system provides intake and assessment services to match individuals with appropriate housing programs.

Additional services include rapid rehousing through the Coordinated Access Process, homelessness prevention for at-risk individuals and families, and the Special Concerns Unit addressing systemic barriers and service gaps. RDNFS also operates community programs including the KAIROS Blanket Exercise, cultural workshops, and youth programming focused on emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical wellness. Located in the meeting place of Treaty 7 Blackfoot and Treaty 6 Cree territories along the original Metis trading route, RDNFS remains committed to fostering cultural diversity and deliberately nurturing Aboriginal identity development within Red Deer's community.