Rick Hansen Foundation Signs Statement of Partnership with Assembly of First Nations

VANCOUVER, May 21, 2012 /CNW/ - The Rick Hansen Foundation (RHF) and the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) today signed a protocol agreement officially recognizing a commitment to work together to identify opportunities that will foster awareness of the need to support and promote leadership and engagement in the areas of accessibility, inclusivity, health, and wellness.

Based on the principles of mutual respect, recognition and effective collaboration with First Nations, this partnership will further enhance new and existing initiatives promoting youth engagement through education, recreation, health and wellness.  This includes building on the IndigenACTION movement - an initiative led by the AFN national youth council aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles through enhancing sport and fitness opportunities for First Nations.

"This collaboration with the AFN is yet another example of Canadians coming together to achieve a common goal," said Rick Hansen. "Through this key partnership, we will work together to empower the next generation and ensure that youth in all communities have an opportunity to live active and healthy lifestyles. I believe young people have the power to change the world and build stronger, healthier communities. Today, we are taking important steps toward achieving our shared objective, and investing in our future leaders - instilling in them the values of teamwork, mentorship, goal-setting, and leadership."

With the goal of building accessible communities for all, RHF will ensure awareness regarding life-changing programs is available to First Nation's communities across the country. Through outreach and education, RHF and AFN will join forces to engage more than 630 First Nation communities in Canada - creating increased opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in their community in a meaningful way.

"This important partnership is part of our broad efforts to transform the relationship between First Nations and all Canadians to support and grow the true potential of our peoples, particularly from a place of inclusivity, health and wellness," said AFN National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo.  "Healthy communities are thriving communities.  Through mutual respect and understanding, we can support every First Nation to achieve success."

About the Assembly of First Nations
AFN is the national organization representing First Nation citizens in Canada.   AFN is committed to strengthening First Nation families and communities, advocating for the respect and recognition of First Nations' rights, advancing economic and environmental interests and supporting First Nation governments and nation-building.

About the Rick Hansen Foundation:
In 1987, following the Man In Motion World Tour (MIMWT), Rick established the Rick Hansen Foundation to continue his quest for an accessible and inclusive society and a cure for SCI. Under Rick's leadership, RHF functions as a social innovator - finding collaborative solutions to challenges in the community and the resources necessary to implement those solutions. RHF has been successful in leveraging the original $26M raised during the MIMWT to more than $252M in support of people, programs and research in pursuit of a healthier and more inclusive world. As part of the 25^th Anniversary campaign, the Rick Hansen Foundation has launched a national public fundraising campaign to support ongoing programs and initiatives. For ways to get involved, or to make a donation, please visit www.rickhansen.com.