Our Roots & Growth

The journey of the Niagara Regional Native Centre (NRNC) began in 1972 with a small group of volunteers who envisioned a Friendship Centre for the Niagara Region. Initially housed in a small office within the St. Catharines YMCA, the Centre quickly grew as community demand for programs and services increased. As the need for Native services expanded, the Centre relocated several times—from Geneva Street to Niagara Street—until it acquired its first property at 219 Church Street in 1975, becoming the St. Catharines Indian Center.

By 1977, it was clear that the growing community also needed services in Fort Erie, leading to the creation of a Satellite Centre, which became independent in 1982. As the NRNC continued to evolve, the need for a larger facility became apparent, and in 1983, the Centre moved to its current location in Niagara-on-the-Lake. This new home provided the space necessary for expanded services, including administrative offices and a large gymnasium.

In 1999, further expansion brought a state-of-the-art children’s room, Elders room, boardroom, and kitchen facilities. Today, the NRNC remains committed to adapting to the changing needs of the Indigenous community, offering a wide range of programs for all ages, including Healing and Wellness, Health Outreach, Youth Programs, and more.

Guided by the philosophy that change occurs in cycles and vision must come from within, the NRNC continues to work towards economic independence, sustainable growth, and self-sufficiency. The vision that began in 1972 has come full circle, with the Centre now firmly established as a vital resource for the Niagara community.