Whistling Wind Action Therapy helps save lives. Bi-weekly Men’s Group is just one of many community and land based services currently provided by Billy Dubery MNTCW, BSW, RSW, his professional staff, and dedicated volunteer team operating at 419 Selkirk Avenue.
In 2016 the North Point Douglas Women’s Centre Women’s Group gave birth to the idea of a similar safe-space for men. NPDWC then extended the idea to Mitch Bourbonniere and Billy Dubery, who responded by hosting the first group dedicated to men gathering and sharing in this good way.
Nine Years Later
Nine years later, Whistling Wind Action Therapy Men’s Group is still offered every second Monday except statutory holidays. Not to mention demonstrating personal, professional and community growth that’s identifiable in both service providers and participants.
Mitch has extensive years experience and reputation in helping others through rehabilitative services. Now he leads Main Street Walks every Tuesday and Thursday morning while Jeremy hosts Drum Group every Thursday night. Billy and staff are about to unveil a new treatment center located in Winnipeg’s St. Boniface area. Whistling Wind Action Therapy employs a team of 40 Action Therapists who provide community-based therapy to youth.
Even More Whole-Hearted
Even more whole-hearted and full circle is the consistent nurturing and involvement maintained by women like Morgan Fontaine. Each Men’s Group begins with a rewarding selection of new clothing and other hygienic necessities to help offset the rising cost of living. Morgan obtains and shares these items through her involvement with Okichidah Pimahtisiwin Kiskinawmatowin and Linking Hope Winnipeg.
Participants can expect a warm welcome with a free meal and no expectation to share among the circle. Returning guests can open doors to other free recovery and mental health services when becoming acquainted with Main Street Project Inc., @wiigiishiingiiwiigeenahn, and other indigenous-led community affiliates.
This Is Action Therapy
This is Action Therapy in full effect with community based initiatives fostering love for men by men through culture and ceremony. Selfcare, healing, and repairing harm are paramount to establishing and balancing all healthy relationships. This also includes one’s connectivity and respect to the land, elements and greater universe.
Winnipeg’s High-Rate Of Homelessness, Addictions, and Deteriorating Mental Health
Winnipeg’s high-rate of homelessness, addictions, and deteriorating mental health identifies no demographic barriers. While indigenous people represent a large visible percentage in Winnipeg’s downtown core the impact can be seen in every corner of the city. Personal, familial, and communal disconnect lend to commercial property tenting and syringe littered lots.
In 2024 End Homelessness Winnipeg conducted its 4th Full Street Census focused on the growing rate of homelessness. Recently released findings identify rates, ethnicities, and likely contributing factors that project an unavoidable need for more appropriate and immediate services like Whistling Wind Action Therapy.
Winnipeg And Manitoba In General
Winnipeg and Manitoba in general, have responded well to an increase in negative lateral effects due to poor or deteriorating Mental Health. However alcohol and substance addictions coupled with domestic violence related incidents continue congesting court dockets and treatment program waitlists.
Addictions Foundation of Manitoba now operates in conjunction with Regional Health Authorities in Manitoba to offer virtual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy sessions for anyone assessed to be less risk in terms of regular use or harm to self or others.
So If In The Meantime
So if in the meantime you find yourself between life’s cracks; addicted, homeless, and at-risk, understand that recovery starts and continues with picking yourself up and facing the truth! Nobody is going to bring these services to you.
For the past six months I’ve lived at a sober living environment located in Winnipeg’s core. It’s tested patience and frustration while taking necessary steps to getting back on my feet with a healthy beat. I didn’t do it all alone but all the right choices have been made on my own! Thank you Whistling Wind Action Therapy.
Fleurysh 