The spark ignited when Elders, women who raised us, aunt’s, girlfriends, community members, etc. have expressed that our men needed help and guidance because they were not well. We realized we were on to something when the options from others came forward and we knew the benefits for the group and community. It was a race to save a fellow Lnu (Mi’kmaq) from addictions, overdoses, suicide, and mental health issues. There were other communities in support of what we were doing and adopting the same approach. It still is exciting when there are fresh minds, new ideas, and new youth getting involved.  

The personal barrier that Ryan had to overcome is that he is fighting his own addictions every day. He is now sober, but addiction is a lifelong healing journey. He fights alcoholism and a cocaine addiction every day. His sobriety is the number one challenge. What has helped Ryan overcome this barrier was knowing that he was making a difference and having a more positive life. Ryan said that “nobody is immune to struggles like grief”. He wants to be emotionally aware for his daughters and realizes there is a lot of love around him.  

The professional barriers have included separation experienced with the COVID-19 pandemic, and the recent snowstorm we had. The Membertou Men’s Society continues to stay connected through Facebook messenger for support.  

Ryan said that focusing on fighting burnout is important. You need to recognize that what you can offer is enough. Consistency is crucial, including setting meeting times and days, having a set location, etc. Also, a great recommendation to offer is to stay associated with elders, and strong knowledgeable people. You cannot be afraid to reach out, believe in your heart that work that you are doing. The sky is the limit.  

Networking was important to implement a significant impact on our group. We have reached out to other groups to find out where, what, who, and why.  

The main method was recruitment. We reached out to other groups including AA and NA. For those kinds of groups, they have very traditional and strict requirements. Our MMS is not judgmental. If someone is under the influence, we will accept them if they are not disrespectful to others in the group. We offer food at our meetings, and there is no pressure to come. Some days at the beginning there was one, two, or three of us who were the main guys. Some days were none. Consistency was key.  

Ryan measures the success and effectiveness of the MMS by hearing their stories, the look in their eyes, and the actions of the men. He seen men walking around in their medallions carrying them proudly and heard great feedback from the men and community members. Ryan keeps in contact with the Elders for their feedback and guidance. The courts and judges have also recognized their society too, and they recommend men to the MMS to heal. The impact on families and Ryan said, “my number one answer is my relationship with my daughters”.  

Ryan remained resilient by recognizing that there is a lot of support around him. The relationship he had with his own mental health and his network was helpful as well. Just knowing who was in his corner offering support and love pushed him through the processes. Ryan often remembered stories from his father Everette and his uncle Donald Marshall Jr. Here are two stories that he always thinks about:  

• My father Everette Sanipass – Ryan asked him “What was going through your mind at your first NHL game with Chicago as an Indigenous player?” His reply was that he was more anxious to get out there to represent all Indigenous people. Playing hockey for the people that I love; I knew I had a whole nation behind me.  

• Donald Marshall Jr – Wrongfully convicted. There were racial differences in prison. When the day came when he had to face the people who were threatening him, he said they had to get through everyone. He looked behind him and all his people were behind him. It was an eye opener for him knowing all his people were behind him.  

“I thought setting goals would be always successful. But life happens. It is about creating a space that encompasses setting goals in a healthy way. It’s great to dream huge. Leave room for your own mental health and vicarious trauma (being exposed to other people’s trauma).”

The MMS strongly encourage our men to love themselves enough to speak up without being judged or seen as being weak and vulnerable. The MMS aims to end stigma against men speaking about their feelings and emotions. To navigate how society is treating, labelling, shaming people suffering from mental health, addictions, and grief. The MMS is to ensure that the men can receive the support and services they need to take care of themselves, their family, and when they are ready to give back to the whole community, they will. 

Men’s Appreciation Day’s, Graveyard surveillance and community patrol, Crisis Centre, Indigenous ceremonies, Hunting & Fishing, Solidarity marches, Naloxone training, Youth field trips, and many more community involvement and events.  

During the interview, Ryan shared his personal journey of starting the organization and the many obstacles they faced along the way. He spoke passionately about the mission of the MMS and providing resources to help them succeed in life. It was inspiring to hear about the impact their organization has had on the lives of so many children and families in need.

One of the most striking aspects of the interview was the director's unwavering dedication and determination to make a difference in the lives of others. Despite facing lateral violence, addictions, and funding; the society remained resilient and committed to their work and continued to push forward knowing the importance of their work.

The interview also shed light on the importance of community support and collaboration in the non-profit sector. Ryan spoke about the partnerships he had formed with local businesses, other communities, and organizations, all of whom played a crucial role in helping the organization achieve its goals.

Overall, this interview was a powerful reminder of the impact that one person can have when they are driven by a clear purpose and a desire to help others. It left me inspired and motivated to continue supporting and advocating for non-profit organizations that are doing important work in our communities.