Cultural Identity

Cultural Identity & Belonging

At Avanda Cares, we understand that healing cannot happen without belonging. For youth in care—especially those who have been disconnected from family, community, or culture—restoring identity is not just important, it is essential.

Our team reflects the diversity of the youth we serve. We are committed to creating spaces where racialized, Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and newcomer youth see themselves reflected in the people who care for them and in the programming that supports them.

What We Offer

Culturally Safe, Identity-Affirming Environments

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Youth are encouraged to express and explore their racial, cultural, gender, and spiritual identities without fear of judgment or erasure.

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We create physical spaces that reflect diverse cultures and experiences through music, food, art, books, language, and rituals.

Trauma-Informed, Anti-Oppressive Practice

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Our team is trained in anti-Black racism, Indigenous cultural safety, gender-based inclusion, and 2SLGBTQIA+ awareness.

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We respond to behavioral challenges through the lens of systemic harm and cultural displacement, not punishment.

Representation That Matters

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Our diverse staffing model allows youth to build trusting relationships with adults who understand their lived experience.

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We actively recruit, train, and support foster parents from varied cultural, religious, and linguistic backgrounds.

Cultural Reconnection

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We support Indigenous youth in reclaiming community ties, participating in ceremony, and understanding their rights under child welfare legislation.

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Black youth are connected to mentors, cultural elders, and programming like Kujali: Caring for Black Children that centers cultural pride and legacy.

Education That Includes Them

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Youth participate in discussions and workshops on race, identity, advocacy, and social justice.

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We include culturally relevant books, media, and materials in daily life and education plans.

Where Identity Is Honored, Belonging Follows.

At Avanda Cares, cultural identity is not an afterthought. It is built into our policies, our hiring practices, our training, and our everyday interactions with youth. Whether a young person is reconnecting with their roots or learning to define themselves for the first time, we create space for that journey.

Belonging is the first step to healing. Identity is the first step to independence.

Cultural Identity