Draft:Indigenous Physical Activity and Cultural Circle

The Indigenous Physical Activity & Cultural Circle (IPACC) is a registered national non-profit organization in Canada. Formerly known as the Aboriginal Physical Activity and Cultural Circle, the organization serves as a network for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit individuals involved in traditional activities, fitness, recreation, and sports. Founded in 2012 by Dr. Rosalin Miles, the organization promotes physical activity as a pathway to health and wellness. IPACC’s office is located on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) people in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Mission and Vision

IPACC’s vision is to establish and expand relationships among Indigenous peoples engaged in physical activity by improving access to resources and promoting health and wellness opportunities. Its mission is to create a supportive community of mentors, leaders, participants, and supporters who champion physical activity as a pathway to health and well-being.

The organization incorporates Indigenous perspectives on wholistic health, recognizing the interconnectedness of spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical well-being. It aims to provide culturally safe environments for networking, leadership development, and engagement in activities rooted in Indigenous traditions.

Events and Programs

IPACC hosts the annual National Indigenous Physical Activity & Wellness (NIPAW) Conference, the largest event of its kind in Canada, in which Indigenous leaders, Elders, youth, and community members explore the role of physical activity in enhancing health, wellness, and education. It includes workshops, discussions, and keynote speakers who focus on Indigenous knowledge and practices. Previous events have been held in Vancouver, Winnipeg, and Nanaimo.

The National Indigenous Physical Activity Awareness Week (NIPAAW) takes place every June. This initiative encourages Indigenous communities across Canada to engage in physical activity and highlights the importance of staying active in promoting health and cultural connection. A hallmark of the event is the "Show Us Your Active Spirit" campaign, where communities virtually share their participation in fitness and traditional activities. NIPAAW Week is organized with the support of the Canadian Health and Fitness Institute.

Leadership and Organization

IPACC is led by its founder and Executive Director, Dr. Rosalin Miles. The current President is Dr. Georgia Kyba, and the organization is supported by a Board of Directors and staff team.

Title	Name
President/Chair	Dr. Georgia Kyba
Vice President	Dave Robinson
Treasurer/Secretary	Maddi Chow
Director at Large	Dano Thorne
Director at Large	Randy Ermineskin
Project Coordinator	Emiko Koizumi
Volunteer Coordinator	Shivam Sharma

IPACC’s work is informed by advisory committees focused on Elders, youth, women, and persons with disabilities. Each committee provides feedback to the IPACC leadership, ensuring programs and initiatives address the diverse needs of Indigenous communities.