Kitigan Zibi’s Decontie Construction organized event at Zibi project site

September 16, 2019 – Gatineau – More than $5,500 was raised for the Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre earlier today at a fundraiser held by Algonquin Anishinabe company Decontie Construction at the Zibi project site. Close to 100 Zibi contractors and workers raised $5,500 during an Indian taco lunch provided by local Kitigan Zibi entrepreneur Justine Deschenes of Good Stuff Catering.

“We were really thrilled with the turnout,” said Wanda Thusky, Partner, Decontie Construction. “This was not only a great opportunity to raise funds for a cause close to our hearts, but also showcase true Algonquin Anishinabe culture, and celebrate positive tricultural work relations on site.”

“We are so grateful to Zibi and Decontie Construction for holding this fundraiser for our Centre,” said Charlotte Commonda, Executive Director at the Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre. “The funds raised today will help us support an even greater number of youth in our community transitioning in a healthy and successful way to living in urban contexts.”

Decontie and Zibi have a long history of working together to benefit the local community. Together, they have been collaborating to break down systemic barriers and increase the representation of First Nation peoples in mainstream construction projects. Zibi’s 34-acre development project has become a model of collaboration for other developers in the region.

So far, the majority of the crew working on remediation, decontamination and demolition on the site has been from Algonquin Anishinabe communities.

Anyone interested in donating to and supporting the Maniwaki Native Friendship Centre can do so by calling 819-892-0892.

For information:

Wanda Thusky
Partner, Decontie Construction
Phone: 819-441-6243
Email: [email protected]