MVAEC became a Society in 2009, and is comprised of Executive Directors from diverse urban off-reserve Aboriginal organizations. With over 20 member organizations, MVAEC represents the vast majority of off-reserve, urban Aboriginal people in Metro Vancouver. Our members are recognized for their leadership, accountability, and ability to develop and deliver programs and services that are responsive
to the unique needs and values of the urban Aboriginal community. While we appreciate the advocacy work of national and provincial Aboriginal organizations, we need everyone to understand that no one else can speak for us or our community’s needs. We believe that we are in the best position to identify, promote, and fulfill those with the help of our civic, provincial, federal, and private sector partners. We believe that urban issues are very important as over 60% of the Aboriginal population now live in large urban settings, yet very little funding is being allocated to meet their unique needs. Our members are leaders in many areas including youth, children & families, justice, health, housing, women, family violence, and many other important issues that are affecting our community. We work with all levels of government, First Nations leadership, the private sector, and others to help them better understand our needs, how addressing challenges in the Aboriginal community also benefits all Canadians, and how they can help to contribute to fostering positive change. MVAEC thanks the local First Nations in the Metro Vancouver region for welcoming us as guests into your territory to do this important work.
