Delivered by The Circle of Turtle Lodge
The Circle of Turtle Lodge, an Indigenous-led organization, has partnered with KAIROS to deliver the KAIROS Blanket Exercise (c) (or KBE) within unceded Traditional Algonquin Territory. Since 1999, we have been dedicated to helping Indigenous people restore traditional culture.
The KBE is a powerful educational tool designed to foster reconciliation through a shared understanding of our collective history. We believe that education is the first step toward a better future, which must be followed by meaningful action.
Our Core Principles
Our delivery of the KBE is grounded in the following pillars:
- Indigenous Leadership: Every facilitation team includes meaningful Indigenous leadership, and we consult with Elders and Knowledge Keepers throughout the process.
- Trauma-Informed Facilitating: We recognize that the KBE can trigger trauma for both participants and facilitators. Our facilitators are trained in trauma-informed practices to create a safe space that highlights the resiliency of Indigenous peoples.
- Respecting Protocols: We center Indigenous cultural safety protocols, such as Smudging and the offering of tobacco, as fundamental elements of the ceremony.
Hosting a KBE: What You Need to Know
To ensure a safe and successful experience for your participants, organizations should prepare by:
| Requirement | Details |
| Target Audience | Standard KBE is for Grade 10+. Youth KBE (Grades 4-9) is available via separate booking. |
| Key Contact | Appoint a primary and backup contact to handle communication and greet the team. |
| Space & Setup | A large room with chairs set in a circle, leaving room for 8–12 blankets in the middle. |
| Cultural Protocol | The host is responsible for preparing and offering tobacco ties to the Elder and facilitators. |
| Smudging | Ensure the venue allows for Smudging (burning sage) throughout the ceremony. |
| Aftercare | Plan a follow-up check-in or collective debrief to support participant mental health. |
Fees and Funding
Kairos has recommended a fee of $1,500 per KBE, plus return mileage to your location. As a charitable, not-for-profit partnership that receives no core government funding, these fees directly support:
- Resource Development: Scripts, training modules, and traditional medicines.
- The Team: Compensation for our Indigenous Elder/Knowledge Keeper and 2–3 facilitators, as well as transportation.
- Support: Emotional support resources for participants if required.
Ready to begin the journey of reconciliation?
Contact aimee@thecircleofturtlelodge.ca or call 613-625-9977 to book your session.