About Us

The Centre began its operation in 1966; originally called the Indian & Metis Friendship Centre.

​In 1970, the Centre was incorporated as the Portage la Prairie Friendship Centre Inc., governed by a constitution, by-laws, and a Board of Directors. Today the Portage Friendship Centre strives to provide timely and necessary services to the Aboriginal population in Portage la Prairie and surrounding communities. We are constantly on a look out for better ways to serve the public and provide a setting where all people feel welcome.

Mission Statement
The Portage la Prairie Friendship Centre Inc. is a non profit organization committed to becoming self-sufficient and to continuing cultural, spiritual and educational programming thereby promoting the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well being of Urban Aboriginal people.

​This commitment is realized through the development and implementation of social and educational programs promoting and developing leadership, increasing awareness levels of Aboriginal Heritage, establishing resources for community development of Urban Aboriginal self-governing institutions.

Our Goals
​1.      To provide support services to all people in the community, but primarily to Aboriginal people, in all aspects of counselling relating to their expressed needs.
2.      To provide opportunities for Aboriginal people to be aware of, promote, and maintain their cultural identity within the urban community.
3.       To provide opportunities for meaningful interaction for people all ages in a variety of social settings.
4.      To provide opportunities to facilitate Aboriginal people in achieving their individual educational and employment goals.
5.       To provide adequate long and short term living conditions for Aboriginal people in the city of Portage la Prairie.
6.       To provide a drop-in centre for Aboriginal people in Portage la Prairie.
7.       To provide a liaison between Aboriginal people and social agencies.
8.       To provide and develop leadership for Aboriginal people in and around Portage la Prairie so as to ensure they have appropriate access to all facilities and services.
9.       To encourage greater Aboriginal participation in community affairs and activities.
10.   To document the needs and problems of Aboriginal people and recommend solutions to same.