Dale grew up in Saskatchewan, enjoyed bike riding from town to town, building rafts to float in sloughs during spring runoff, and fishing at Candle Lake.

For a brief time, Dale also lived in foster care during the 1960’s. After graduation (Saskatoon) he was a laborer, line cook, and taxi driver before discovering an interest in entertaining children with magic, juggling and paper shaping. ‘Mainly Magic’ travelled in the US and Canada.

In 1994 a Saskatoon newspaper ad called for Indigenous students to attend the University of Sask Urban Native Teacher program. Four years later, Dale joined his wife in Victoria and found out teachers weren’t being hired back then—but Childcare Educators were! So he began a 20yr career at UVIC, finishing in 2017.

In 2016, Dale was trained as a volunteer counsellor, and enjoys supporting individuals on their journey to wellness.

Dale Whitford is Metis Elder who has been a part of VNFC for many years supporting. He currently works as a Language Support position, assisting also with Elders and Cultural programs where needed.

Email Lisa at [email protected] if you wish to connect with Dale and discuss your ideas, as Dale loves to support a range of VNFC programs.