"A series of case studies was conducted as part of the impact evaluation of the Aboriginal Healing Foundation (AHF). The case study process included data collection on selected social indicators that will be used to measure the impact of projects over time. In particular, data was collected for the year prior to AHF-funded activity and once again in the year 2003, an approach known in the evaluation field as “within-groups repeated measures.” The case studies are intended to provide a detailed, holistic, in-depth view of the projects and their outcomes. All data was collected by community support coordinators.

The project that forms this case study is entitled, “Honouring Residential School Survivors: A Theatrical Production under the Honour and History Theme” (AHF file # HH-88-BC). The production became Every Warrior’s Song and is described in the application as, “A theatrical production that addresses the legacy of physical and sexual abuse of the Residential School impacts on First Nations families and communities.”

This report provides a holistic overview of the Neskonlith Indian Band and the George Manuel Institute’s project (herein referred to as “theatrical production” or “project”), including a description of important regional characteristics and conditions that will reflect the areas where the project unfolded. This is followed by a detailed discussion of project activities and anticipated short- and long-term outcomes and how change will be measured. It discusses the range of potential indicators of change, including those chosen by the AHF Board to be applied to all projects (physical abuse, sexual abuse, incarceration rates, suicide, and children in care) as well as indicators specific to this project. It also includes a discussion of the views of the project team and community service providers on the project and its impacts to date and provides an overview, impressions, and conclusion." (Case Study Report: Honouring Residential School Survivors: A Theatre Production: Every Warrior’s Song, page 1).