Who We Are
The Yorklands Green Hub (YGH) was established in 2014 as a non-profit organization. YGH is committed to transforming the historic Yorklands site (the former Guelph Correctional Centre) into a vibrant community green space that cultivates the stewardship, discovery, appreciation, as well as a deep connection to nature. Over the past few years, we have achieved considerable progress, thanks to the diligent efforts of our board, staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters.
Our Vision Statement:
Our vision is to create a thriving and inclusive public green space at Yorklands that honours the siteโs cultural heritage, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, embraces community engagement, and advances environmental stewardship.
The Yorklands site is situated on the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nations โ Between the Lakes Treaty #3 and on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee and Attawandaron peoples. We recognize that for thousands of years the local Indigenous peoples were excellent stewards of this land and that once Europeans came and colonialism set in, great harms were committed. See our Land Acknowledgement (link)
Details and map here https://mncfn.ca/between-the-lakes-treaty-no-3-1792/
Our Mission Statement:
Our mission is to actively engage with Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities to create a welcoming green space that celebrates biodiversity, conservation of its cultural heritage and facilitates stewardship education programs.
Our Values:
At the Yorklands Green Hub, our values guide everything we do.
- We foster a deep connection to the land and its history, honouring Indigenous wisdom and embracing responsibility to promote reconciliation and healing.
- We are committed to creating inclusive spaces and programs that inspire learning, action, and collaboration.
- We strive to cultivate empathy through meaningful engagement and partnerships with our community and to cultivate mutual respect, and environmental stewardship.
- We are dedicated to continually evolve and innovate, ensuring that our efforts have a lasting and positive impact on both people and the planet.
Envisioned Outcomes:
- Preservation of the unique cultural and natural heritage of the Reformatory Heritage Conservation District lands through adaptive reuse
- Cultivation of sustainable stewardship practices through our environmental education programs and events.
- Increased engagement of Indigenous and non-Indigenous citizens in building strong, climate-resilient, inclusive communities.
