In 2014, a small group of Rotarians from several southern Ontario Rotary clubs sat in the basement of a building in Oshawa talking about creating a country wide organization to work in partnership with Indigenous Peoples. We have gone from planning on the back of an envelope to establishing HIP’s multi-year plan.

While we continue to listen and learn, we also reflect, adjust and build on our successes. We have taken huge steps forward including increasing our board to 20 members selected from communities stretching from coast-to-coast. Bringing some of Canada’s brightest minds and biggest hearts together has resulted in an updated vision and mission. 

As Indigenous and Non-Indigenous partners, we are committed to working together. While we have refined our focus with an emphasis on relationship building, we will continue our education and awareness activities including supporting the next generation of leaders and changing knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. 

HIP growth means increasing Indigenous and Non-Indigenous participation. We encourage and support relationship building between Rotary clubs and Indigenous communities. As we discover shared purposes, values and how to better support one another, we will be building a better country. 

Our logo was designed by Jennifer Wemigwans, Anishnaabekwe (Ojibwe/ Potawatomi) from Wikwemikong First Nation. The four colours of the medicine wheel represent many things.  In this specific design we are using the symbolic image of people and the four colours to represent the four races of human kind.  They are intertwined and inter-related to symbolize that we are all dependent upon one another and that only together do we represent the strength of the circle – a complete unity.  The outer circle that envelops the four races is done in purple and white to pay homage to and acknowledge the importance of wampum belts and their historical bond for bringing together people in this land.  Traditional wampum beads are a blend of white and purple. The waves emitting out from the circle symbolize the ripple effect and strength that comes from being united as people.  

Our mission is to catalyze societal change by inspiring Indigenous & Non-Indigenous
relationship building, strengthening community well-being and advancing the next generation of leaders.

Our vision is that all Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Peoples work together,
interconnected and interdependent, for the benefit of future generations.