Help Jolene Become a IBC

Hi, my name is Jolene and I'm fundraising to become an Indigenous Breastfeeding Counselor.

The Indigenous Breastfeeding Counselor Training is taking place in Billings, Montana October 10-14, 2022. The training is an intensive, first of its kind and only Indigenous breastfeeding training consisting of 45 hours. Once the hours are completed I will be able to serve, support, and guide lactating families on their journey through parenthood.

I have been a Full Spectrum Indigenous Birth Worker since 2018 and throughout my journey of this lifelong work, I always do my best to keep learning in the area of birth work. This training is another tool to add to my toolkit and will not only help assist me to further my education, but I will now have the training to serve Indigenous communities and families with reclaiming and revitalizing the first sacred food which is breastmilk.

Breastfeeding has always been a huge part of my identity as a mom. When I became a mother at 20, I was determined to breastfeed even though I had no idea how or seen a breastfeeding mom up close. I now have 2 children of my own and have been breastfeeding for 5.5 years non stop. I currently tandem feed my 5 year old and my 3 year old. My years of experience through motherhood is an asset towards this training. My passion for breastfeeding is vital as a birth worker. I would love to see Indigenous lactation revitalized as that was a component that was severed in our original ways of Indigenous motherhood due to colonialism. Indigenous milk is medicine. Having healthy Indigenous babys from the start will create healthy, thriving Indigenous communities and families.

Your financial support at this time will be greatly appreciated. Finances to be covered are lodging and mileage to attend the training in Billings, Montana. I will be driving from Virden, MB which is a 9 hour trip. Funds from this will go directly to my trip to become an Indigenous Breastfeeding Counselor. My e-transfer is open for donations as well at: [email redacted] . com

I appreciate your time and effort toward helping me reach my goals and aspirations

Thank you in advance!