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Deprogramming Violence to Build Safer Communities

People of Peace, Safety and Well-being
dewanachoz logo1.png

Enabling peace and growth alongside young people ages 10 to 20 yeasr old and their families
Deprogramming Violence through Innovation, Culture, and multidisciplinary Sciences

Dewanachoz focuses on deprogramming violence among youth ages 10 to 20 years old. We prefer a family or household with emphasis on the young peoples. At the far end these young people think differently about themselves, return or continue to school, volunteer in the community, and engage in personal development. Our multifaceted approach supports individuals, families, and the community, fostering a culture of peace and growth. Deprogramming violence is deep work. Together, we can build a brighter future for our youth and create lasting change in their lives. Zero-violence.

A serene and peaceful landscape featuring a young person sitting
  • Deprogramming The ROOTS of Violence
    Innovative, Indigenous and specialized discipline services and support

    At the heart, the Dewanachoz project is about deprogramming violence at the indivudal, family, and community levels. Every service activity and event is built to undo cycles of harm and replace them with healing, cultural strength, and safe opportunities for youth.

  • A young person sitting in a cozy, softly lit room,
    Youth Violence Deprogreamming and Support

    Transform your mindset and build confidence through interactive sessions.

  • A group of young individuals actively participating in a community
    Community healing and family engagement

    Get involved and make a difference in your family.

  • A student studying in a calming, well lit study space,
    Cultural and Spiritual Reconnection

    Navigate your mental health and well-being journey with guidance and resources from the professional, accredited cognitive theraputic disciplines.

  • A young person, around 15 years old, sitting thoughtfully at a table, surrounded by books and a journal, symbolizing personal development. The setting is a cozy, well-lit room with soft tones and gentle lighting, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The young person is writing in their journal with a focused expression, representing the journey of emotional regulation and goal setting. The background includes plants and calming elements, reflecting a nurturing environment conducive to growth.
    Personal and leadership development
    Empower youth with essential life skills and leadership opportunities.
  • A young person sitting in a serene, softly lit room, engaged in a counseling session with a supportive counselor. The counselor is listening attentively, creating a safe environment. The background features calming colors and elements that evoke a sense of peace, such as plants and warm lighting. The image should convey a sense of hope and transformation, highlighting the importance of supportive relationships in overcoming challenges.
    Violence-informed interventions
    Transformative support for individuals and families trapped in violence.

Our visionaries

zero-violence, zero excuses

  • Clifford T. Summers
    Youth Engagement Coordinator

    Passionate about uplifting youth and fostering resilience. Dedicated to guiding young individuals towards a brighter future.

  • Richard Dumas
    Community Outreach Specialist

    Expert in community connections and youth engagement. Committed to fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.

  • Clayton Sandy
    Program Development Director

    Dedicated to creating impactful programs that reduce youth violence. A visionary leader committed to fostering personal growth.

  • Ken Bighetty
    Youth Development Specialist
    Ken is a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and community development. His innovative strategies and empathetic approach foster resilience and personal growth.
  • Brennan Ireland
    Youth Development Specialist
    A dedicated professional focused on empowering youth through innovative strategies and community engagement.
  • Hani Ataan A.
    Youth Empowerment Coordinator
    Dedicated youth advocate with a focus on empowerment and community development. Hani believes in the power of education and resilience.
  • Guy Dumas
    Zero-Violence Specialist

    Dedicated advocate for youth empowerment with a focus on zero-violence, personal development and community engagement.

Events and gatherings

Join us for transformative experiences

  • Wiping of the tears ceremony
    September 20, 2025 at 11:00 AM

    Uplift your journey with our engaging Transformational Experiences.

  • Community volunteer days
    June 1, 2026 at 12:00 PM

    Make a difference by joining our Community Volunteer Days!

  • Leadership and Personal development growth sessions
    October 3, 2026 at 9:00 AM

    Join our Leadership and Personal Development sessions and unlock your potential that knowingly and unknowlingly exists! Challenge yourself!

Voices of change

Hear from those we've impacted.

a4ab warren wong

Dewanachoz has been a life-changing experience for my son. He has transformed from a troubled teen into a confident, focused individual with dreams for his future. The supportive environment and dedicated mentors have helped him realize that he can achieve anything he sets his mind to. He is now actively involved in community service and has returned to school, excited about learning and growing. I am grateful for the positive impact Dewanachoz has had on our family and the hope it has rekindled in my son's life.

Brandon Vega
N/A
bd01 hunter johnson

As a community volunteer, I’ve seen firsthand the positive effects of Dewanachoz. The program empowers young people to break the cycle of violence and embrace personal growth. The workshops and activities encourage not just skill development, but also foster a sense of belonging and responsibility. It’s inspiring to witness these youths become role models in their communities, showing that change is possible. I wholeheartedly support this initiative and encourage others to get involved.

Chris Wei
Local Non-Profit
bd01 brooke cagle

Participating in Dewanachoz has been a transformative journey for me. I was lost and struggling with my identity, but this program guided me towards self-discovery and purpose. The mentors have been incredible, providing guidance and support every step of the way. I’ve learned to appreciate my worth, set goals, and give back to my community. Now, I’m pursuing my education with enthusiasm and volunteering regularly, and I feel like I have a future full of possibilities.

Karen Weiss
N/A

Zero-Violence

Your path to zero-violence starts here.

  • Youth Pathways

    Helping young people see themselves differently and choose safer, stronger futures.

  • Cultural Renewal

    Grounding in Cree Identity, spirituality, and the seven teachings

  • Family Circles

    Healing begins at home - strengthening family bonds to break cycles of harm.

  • Safe Communities

    Building community environments where violence has no place

  • Healing and growth services

    Supporting individuals stuck in the cycles of violence and trauma

  • Leadership and Personal Development

    Enabling youth and community members to lead with vision and responsibility.

Use the Two Ways to Get in touch

We're here to support you!

705-210-0712 Text - Always inlcude name