YTC Connection

WELCOME TO THE FIRST EDITION

We are pleased to in- YTC to the Nations tory that we will be con- Volume 1, Issue 1 troduce the Yellow- membership. Over the veying to you, the read- DECEMBER 2019 head Tribal Council years, YTC has er over the next few Special points of interest: Connection for your evolved from its early pages. Keep in mind reading pleasure. This days in 1977 to a com- this will be an ongoing  6841 - # of Band Mem- is a significant first is- plex, multi-faceted or- process and that we bers YTC Serves sue for bringing you up ganization that pro- will be bringing you  1643 - # of clients to date information re- vides top tier services updates on our vari- YTDF served over the garding the opera- and advocacy services ous programs and sig- past 4 years tions of the Yellowhead on behalf of our mem- nificant milestones as  200+ - Number of Stu- Tribal Council, as well ber Nations. Our they happen. We dents YTC funds an- as the many programs Nations include: are grateful for the nually and services we pro- Alexander First Na- opportunity to serve  1977 - Year YTC was vides to our Nation tion, Alexis Nakota our Nations established members. This is part Sioux Nation, membership and of the mandate for O’Chiese First Nation look forward to Inside this issue: communications from and Sunchild First showcasing YTC. our Nations Chiefs and Nation. We have a A Message from the 2 the Administration of proud and storied his- CEO YTC: A History 2 IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN! 3 Ah, Christmas, a time for survive during the holidays; of why they are here to A Message from the gathering with our families with the known traffic, line- enjoy the Christmas season and friends to celebrate the ups in the stores and the in the first place. Enjoy your YTC Corrections 4 holidays together. A mix- elevated prices to contend holidays with family, friends ture of good cheer, laughter, with. However, we know it is and most importantly...the YTC ASETS 4 warmth and spending mon- all worth it when you see kids. After all this is the ey. Of course managing the look of happiness on reason we will continue to money when shopping is your child’s face when they do it all over again next Yellowhead Tribal 5 one of the most hectic are tearing open the pre- year! activities a mom, dad, sents. Something about PLUS MUCH kokum or moshum can that really reminds a person Page 2 YTC Connection From the Chief Executive Officer

First of all, I would like to thank you for your time in reading this newsletter as part of our efforts to ensure that our Nations members are up to date on the activities for the Yellowhead Tribal Council. This newsletter is an important first step to creating consistent communication strategies with our re- spective nations. I would also like to wish all of you a safe and warm holiday season with your fami- lies and friends. It is my honor to serve as the Chief Executive Officer and have been doing so for the past 6 years. I have great staff that I work with everyday from our nations and with everyone’s com- bined efforts; we are proud to say that we deliver programs and services to our people that are sec- ond to none. We have evolved so much as an organization and our mandate will always be collec- tive growth today, for the benefit of tomorrow. A thank you to our nations Chief’s as well for their sup- port and advocacy on important issues and challenges that we face on a daily basis. Our collec- tive thought and strategic thinking enables us to document and form strategies that address key and significant issues together. Going forward, the Yellowhead Tribal Council will continue to evolve and Laverne Arcand grow and form key and strategic partnerships that will enable us to achieve goals and objectives for Chief Executive Officer the benefit of our Nations members. Thank you very much for the opportunity to serve our nations and we are very excited to welcome 2020 for the Yellowhead Tribal Council.

YTC: A History and Evolution areas of joint concern. We accumulate The Yellowhead Tribal Council and curate information on the environ- formed in 1977 to work on political ment to share with the YTC member na- issues and facilitate delivery of pro- tions, including information on jurispru- grams and services for each Nation dence affecting environmental matters. in a fair, equitable, and responsible We present this information to Chiefs manner. We have grown to employ and Councils in Area Council meetings, more than 50 full-time staff within the YTC Symposium, and in the Chiefs and following program and advisory ser- Council orientations. ASETS has also vice areas: administration, finance, worked to maximize its effectiveness technical services, education, health, relationship with all levels of govern- through relationships with a wide variety corrections, ASETS, and environ- ment is apparent across all units within of agencies and organizations, becom- ment. Our accomplishments are sig- the Yellowhead Tribal Council’s admin- ing a Service agreement holder nificant, many, and varied. The col- istration. Together with Tribal Chiefs in 2005 and creating formal partnerships lege has grown in its thirty years of Ventures, we had the longest-standing with Tribal Chiefs Employment and continuous operations from a small MOU agreement with Environ- Training Services Association, Oteenow upgrading program into an independ- ment and Sustainable Resource Devel- Employment and Training Society, Al- ent institution offering a range of cer- opment (signed in 2008) to work on joint berta Indigenous Relations, and six inde- tificate and diploma programs de- areas of concern with regard to environ- pendent , among others. signed to meet the needs of our Na- mental issues including water, air, land, This has allowed us to take a prominent tions. We have consistently managed and biodiversity. Among the many role in events such as the 2015 to secure financial support from the things accomplished under this MOU Employment Partnerships and Job Fair, province and from the federal gov- were jointly organized workshops, work which we co-hosted. Our organization ernment. Our Post-Secondary Part- plans, and meetings where we estab- will continue to evolve and the work we nerships Program proposals have lished working relationships with repre- do today will continue to leave footprints been successful even beyond our sentatives from the Government of Al- for tomorrow. expectations, which is particularly berta. In the spring of 2015 we estab- meaningful as the PSPP is open to all lished a working group of Land Manag- post-secondary institutions, not just ers/Consultation Coordinators within First Nations colleges. Our positive the four YTC member nations to discuss Page 3 YTC Connection

On behalf of the and its membership; I would like to take the opportunity to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. This newsletter represents an important first step for ongoing communications with the nations from the Yellowhead Tribal Council. As the Chiefs of YTC, we will continue to work together for the protection and enhancement of Treaty #6 and be strategic in collaborating on various issues. I would also like to congratulate our students from the College for their educational achievements. As Chiefs, we always support our people who seek to better themselves through education and we are very proud of you. As well I would like to thank the YTC staff for their hard work and we hope that 2020 is an even better year for our people. Again thank you for reading the YTC Connection and this will be one issue of many to come. Chief Kurt Burnstick

Greetings to all on behalf of the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation. As the Chiefs from each of our respec- tive Nations we work together as the Yellowhead Tribal Council to address many issues that impact, concerns and opportunities for our members. Collectively, we form strategic alliances to ensure that we are tactical when conveying our messages to both Federal and Provincial Governments. We con- tinue to work for our future generations and the staff of YTC work hard in providing information that is both current and useful. Congratulations to all of our graduates and you are both an inspiration and role models to your loved ones. I would like to wish each and everyone of you a safe, happy and joy- ous holiday season with your families and loved ones; as well as a safe and prosperous New Year. See you all in 2020 and lets continue on our path together. Chief Tony Alexis

From the Leadership and Membership of the O’Chiese First Nation; we wish our brothers and sis- ters from the YTC Nations a very Happy and Joyous Holiday Season. As the Chiefs of YTC, we strive for unity when overcoming significant issues that will affect our future generations. We would also like to congratulate our recent graduates and urge the continuing students to push forward and realize your educational dreams. This will be a cornerstone for our people in the future and we have become leaders in Post Secondary Education across Canada. As the First People’s of this land, our knowledge will always ensure we assert a position of strength. This newsletter will be an im- portant tool to ensure that our members are brought information on the various operations of Yel- lowhead Tribal Council and the programs and services it provides to our members.

Chief Douglas Beaverbones We wish you all the very best Holiday season and Happy New Year with your loved ones from all of us from the . Welcome to the first issue of the YTC Connection, an important tool for keeping our membership from each nation up to -date on the activities and direction of the Yellowhead Tribal Council. As well, I would like to congratulate our recent grad- uates and we wish you the very best in your bright futures. Our role as Chiefs, is to ensure that we protect and enhance our rights collectively for those unborn. We do this with the hard work and support from the YTC staff and we now have the platform in which to communicate our pro- gress to our respective membership. Our collective efforts combined with our many years of experience enables us to create the best possible outcomes when working on protecting our lands, rights and our people. Our direction today will create ripples in the future that our children will continue on. Chief Jonathan Frencheater Page 4 YTC Connection YTC Corrections The Chiefs of Yellowhead Tribal Council  Recommendation of AMP/ EXJS EXJS - Youth (YTC) signed a Master Agreement with agreements for Court the Alberta Solicitor General on August Courts settings in YTCCS Jurisdic- 1, 1991. The purpose is to deliver Cor- Yellowhead Tribal Community Correc- tion are Alexis, , Stony rectional Services programs, including tions Society (YTCCS): Court workers Plain, and . Probation and Court Worker services to provide services to ensure YTC mem- YTCCS assists First Nation mem- its member First Nations. Yellowhead bers: bers of Alexis, Alexander, Sunchild, Tribal Community Corrections Society  Understand their rights and obliga- and O’Chiese. (YTCCS) Probation Officers provide all tions within the justice system Community Corrections Supervision for Assist clients to obtain legal assis- both Adult and Youth Offenders which  includes: tance  Probation  Lawyers referral  Pre-Trial release  Counselling  Conditional Sentences  Speak on behalf of clients in Court if unsure of judicial process  Pre-Sentence Reports  Fine Option  Justice Panel/Committee Coordina- Alternative Measures Program tion  AMP – Adult  Justice Committee meetings  Extrajudicial Sanctions Program  Court/Client referral Aboriginal Skills & Employment Training Strategy

The Aboriginal Skills and creates tools to enhance services Employment Training Strategy at each respective First Nation (ASETS) is a Government of sub-agreement level. Of course, Canada program designed to as with any program of this help improve the employment nature your feedback is opportunities of Aboriginal important to ensure that the peoples and enable them to fully program is effective and participate in the Canadian efficient. Within the four economy in a relationship based member nations being on the mutual trust, respect and insightful information when Alexander, Alexis, Sunchild and openness. The staff at YTC determining trending and O’Chiese surveys are conducted ASETS are always available to strategic partnership alignment. periodically and the information serve the Nations members and The ASETS programs are collected in the surveys is provide assistance when designed to deliver reviewed by the central required. It is demand-driven employment/training supports to administration office with and results based, rather than the ready, willing and able assistance from the four client-driven; this approach, workforce community within member Nations. These doors enables the staff to ensure the YTC First Nations, enabling for opportunities are available to accurate information and them to fully participate in the you and the statistics are kept in how many Canadian Economy. YTDF- staff of the members are helped and from ASETS Central administration YTDF ASETS which nation. Additionally, office provides support and Pro- gram these statistics provide monitors the progress and are in place Page 5 YTC Connection YELLOWHEAD TRIBAL COLLEGE

The Yellowhead Tribal College non-profit rate of $15.62/square foot. the Edmonton Community Foun- officially opened its doors in 1987 YTC is in the second year of a 3.5- dation are funding new equipment after the creation of the Yellow- year, $2.3-million grant from Service and flooring for our science lab and head Tribal Council in 1977. The Canada to run Essential Skills in a the acquisition of 3D printers, original college has grown signifi- Digital World, which turns out pro- enabling enhanced science in- cantly since then. After more than gram graduates ready to enter the struction and programming in 20 years in our previous location, workforce. We are in the second cutting-edge technologies. Our staff we relocated to the Orange Hub, year of a 2-year, $1.06-million grant has expanded in the last 6 months, in Edmonton’s Jasper Place from Indigenous Services Canada to complementing the staff expan- neighbourhood. We are the an- develop and deliver three innovative sion that took place the previous chor tenant and occupy a third of programs in the high-demand fields year, with the creation of permanent the leasable space. The building of renewable energy, healthcare, faculty positions and the position of offers room to grow; increased and Indigenous languages. In Associate Registrar and External access to transit and access for addition to the $640,000 First Na- Liaison. Doreen Daychief now people with disabilities; and oppor- tions College Grant, which we re- serves as Coordinator of Indigenous tunities for partnerships with the ceive annually from the Government Languages, and will oversee major other tenants (arts, social ser- of Alberta, Alberta Advance Educa- growth in our language course and vices, and other non-profit tion granted the college a further one program offerings. Brenda Lemay groups). In our new space, we are time grant of $500,000 at the end of serves as Admissions Officer, a creating a science lab; carving out the 2018-19 fiscal year to assist position created to handle the in- new spaces for studying and with our move and other new initia- creased volume of inquiries and group work; hosting events; and tives. We are receiving a $644,000 applications. Jocelyn Verreault extending the use of our class- grant over 2 years from Alberta Edu- moved from a faculty role to the rooms and meeting spaces to ex- cation to develop and deliver an newly created position of Sci- ternal organizations. We have 11 innovative program in Indige- ence and Technology Depart- classrooms, 2 computer labs, a nous language teacher training. 40 ment Head. We are very excited for Ceremonial Room, a greatly en- funded UCEPP seats were restored all the new programs and opportuni- larged library, and offices for all by Alberta Works to begin in the ties that exist for our students of the staff, including most of our 2019-20 academic year, represent- Yellowhead Tribal College. instructors. We occupy 31 per- ing approximately $200,000 in tuition cent of the building and pay the revenue per year. Two grants from

Page 6 YTC Connection YTC ADMINISTRATION UPDATE

On behalf of the Yellowhead Tribal Council Skills and Employment Training Strategy; 2017-2018 fiscal year). Administration (YTC) / Yellowhead Tribal Yellowhead Tribal Community Corrections Development Foundation (YTDF), this up- Program. The Strategic and Operational regarding the 10-year Indigenous Skills, date is prepared for your review as a mem- Plans were approved by the YTC Executive Employment and Training Program (ISETP) ber of the YTC Nations. Upon direction of of Chiefs on February 27, 2019. Funding Agreement, formerly known as the YTC First Nations’, the Tribal Council FUNDING FINANCIAL ASETS. Our current ASET Agreement has strives to fulfill its Mandate: “To provide expired March 31, 2019. Negotiations will effective and efficient Nation-building MANAGEMENT: continue. advisory, programs and services” to the -Year Funding member First Nations – Alexander First Agreement expired March 31, 2019. Nation, Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, o YTDF / YTC began negotiations for the gram Managers to review Monthly Financial O’Chiese First Nation and Sunchild First renewal of our funding agreement. Statements and Annual Budgets to ensure Nation. o DIAND requires an entity to complete they are in alignment with funding require- ments. We will continue to bring you up- STRATEGIC PLANNING: and pass a “General Assessment (GA) Part A” for YTDF; the GA resulted in a rating of dates on these and various other programs In the fall of 2018, we began the process 3.25 and is considered a “low risk.” for YTC Administration in later issues of the with all YTC Entities to review, update o We have successfully renewed our Five- YTC Connection as it occurs. Communica- and implement Five Year Strategic Plans for Year Comprehensive Funding (Block) tion to our members has begun and we will 2018-2023. This is a requirement for negoti- Agreement for April 1, 2019 – March 31, continue to keep members informed on our ating YTDF’s Five-Year Funding Agreement 2024 beginning with a 2.168% increase (the progress. with the Department of Indian and Northern highest increase we have received since Affairs Development (DIAND). Strategic 2011). Plans were completed by: YTC Executive of Chiefs; YTC Administration – includes Finance, Executive Management Advisory First Nations, Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB) and Support, Technical Services, Post- Funding Agreement expired March 31, Secondary Student Support Program, First 2018.

Nations Student Success Program, Envi- o A new five-year Amending Funding ronment, Economic Development; YTC Agreement was signed with FNHIB for the College; YTC Health, YTDF Aboriginal period of 2018-2022 (this includes the YTC ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES The YTC Environment Program is led regard to the intern; continue monitor- by Carolyn Buffalo. Educated as a ing Bills C-68 and Bill C-69; and to lawyer, Carolyn is a former Chief from prepare submissions to the Senate Samson First Nation with exten- standing committee on the Environ- sive political experience in regards to ment. Finally, to continue communi- governmental policy analysis. Key cations with the Treaty 6 Environment program priorities are inclusive of but Coordinator (Crystal Lameman) and to not limited to: dialogue with the Mem- reach out to the Consultation Coordi- ber First Nations in regards to climate nators/Land Managers of the YTC change presentations and the develop- Member First Nations. More details ment of climate change strategy; to will follow in future issues of the YTC continue to dialogue with Alberta with Connection. Page 7 YTC Connection 594194 Alberta Ltd. Property Management Update Merv Kootenay is the Property building renovations planning meet- unit replacement project. We now Manager for the above listed ings led by Manasc Isaac Architects utilize a new auditing firm (Kingston company and has many extensive (July, 2018 for the new College loca- Ross Pasnak LLP) hired to conduct years of education and experience tion). Assisted in the college move company’s 2018 year end financial in fulfilling the required duties. and the coordination of moving 3rd report. We have installed a new fire This brief activity report does not floor tenants to main floor space, system panel. Assisted in the instal- include regular management renovations are now completed. lation of the new YTC logo neon duties such as, but not limited to: Negotiated and signed two-year sign. We are presently working with invoicing and collection of rents; lease agreement with Alexis Nakota YTC legal counsel in the drafting of making company deposits; sched- Sioux Nation for office space on 3rd lease agreements for all YTC enti- uling repairs and maintenance; the floor (Effective September, 2018). ties (to be effective May1st, 2019). processing and payment of Signed short term lease agreement Assisted in mortgage loan applica- company bills; the ordering of with ISETs Main Floor (Oct 1, 2018 – tion ( provided financial and other supplies and materials; address- Mar 31, 2019. Worked with ISETS relevant legal information). Signed a ing tenant issues and concerns. in the implementation of the solar one year lease agreement with This update reflects only activities panel training / retrofit project. Oteenow Employment & Training for and business matters deemed Assisted YTC Engineer with the one classroom on main floor important for this report which the installation of energy efficient electri- (Effective March, 2019). We will shareholders should be informed cal upgrades; boiler replacement provide continuous updates in future about. I have attended numerous project; and completing the roof top issues of the newsletter. Post Secondary Student Supports Program (PSSSP) The Post-Secondary Student Sup- feel free to contact either staff mem- port Program provides grant fund- ber for any questions pertaining to ing and student support services Post Secondary and they will gladly for the Yellowhead Tribal Council assist you with any inquiries. There member First Nations students are four appointed part-time posi- attending Post-Secondary tions for Liaison staff; with staff from Education. As of April 1, 2017 and serving the Alexis Nakota Sioux The Post-Secondary Student Nation, O’Chiese First Nation, Support Program moved from Sunchild First Nation and Alexander YTC College to YTC Admin as First Nation students. In the next directed by the Executive of issue; we will showcase some of our Chiefs. Post-Secondary Student statistics from the four nations and Support Program has a full time highlight our key accomplishments. staff of two people; a Manager Congratulations to all the 2019 grad- (Dawn Arcand) and a Data Entry uates and we hope there are more to File clerk (Tiffany Arcand). Please come. Page 8

The above picture shows the Nov 13th & 14th meeting YTC hosted at the Royal Hotel West in Edmonton AB. Information was present- ed around the future of Post Secondary Education and strategy to be implemented by YTC. Agenda items included: 1. National Post- Secondary Education Review 2. Policy Proposal on First Nations Post-Secondary Education 3. Current Activities on Post Secondary Education 4. Budget 2019 Post-Secondary Education Investment Update 5. Recommendations Strategy Session.

The winter session of the AOTC was held Nov 18th - 20th in Edmonton AB. This meeting was hosted by the Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations. The agenda was focused around various issues concerning: Health, Education, Child Welfare, Funding Agreements between our Nations and Canada. The meeting was attended by Chiefs, Proxies, Elders, Staff from YTC and staff from the various Alberta Nations. Meetings like this allow our Nations to strategize on issues from both the Federal and Provincial Governments; and allows our Governments to deploy strategy to ensure our rights are protected.

If Knowledge is not shared, then what good is it? As the First People’s of this land con- entered into Treaty did so with the un- changing, evolving and teaching our sider what has happened throughout derstanding that it was a sacred cove- young people. If you possess the gift of history for you to be here. Our Trea- nant between our Nations and the knowledge, culture or language...you ties that were negotiated and entered Crown. “For as long as the sun shines, are obliged to pass these gifts on to the into over 140 years ago, are a hall- grass grows and the rivers flow” is an young people that surround you. It only mark of one of the most significant, excerpt we all know from Treaty #6. takes one to teach and one to learn. foundational events to occur in our Remember, there is an important oral What are you doing? history. What are you doing to further testimony that is fundamental when enhance and build upon the legacy understanding the True Meaning, Spirit put in place for us so long ago? Our and Intent of Treaty. You have an obli- people evolve and grow with the gation to continue to learn, to grow, to changing seasons and if you consider change, to evolve. Our ancestors who change in all its forms...we are con- sacrificed so much for us to be here are stantly changing, evolving and grow- owed a huge debt by us today. This ing. Our Chiefs and Headmen that debt can be paid by learning, growing, Page 9 YTC Connection A Positive Step Forward for Sunchild & O’Chiese

The Sunchild First Nation and very clear message to everyone that This action taken by the Sunchild O’Chiese First Nation have taken enough is enough and these are two and O’Chiese First Nations is also an important first step together. governments who put their Nations an example of hope, in that it tells On Wednesday, November 20th, future ahead of themselves. Of the youth or people with no other 2019; they both signed Residency course, as with any other Nation choices that there are choices and & Trespass bylaws that enables passing Laws or By Laws both Na- people are looking out for you. the Chief & Council to evict known tions consulted with their respective Leadership in this case, is standing drug dealers from their lands. We membership through a series of con- up for the people who cannot stand have all had the experience with sultation meetings; and received up for themselves. It represents a losing a loved one from illegal overwhelming membership support. positive first step forward and con- drugs and this is a prime example Penalties and appeals for the gratulations to both Nations for tak- of two Nations standing up for bylaws will be reviewed and decid- ing the necessary steps to ensure their people and protecting those ed upon by a panel of seven people their members are safe. on the land. As well it sends a who will work with the RCMP. Alexander Gas Bar Grand Opening

The Alexander Gas Bar - A Division of the Alexander Business Center Inc. held its grand opening on Monday, December 9th, 2019 in the Alexander First Nation. The opening was attended by many members, guests and the Alexander First Nation leadership. The gas bar now features a deli, 6 new pumps with a canopy; as well as a complete renovation equipped with paved parking and solar panels on the roof. The new gas bar creates 16 new full time jobs for the Alexander First Nation. Congratulations to the Alexander First Nation and the Alexander Business Center on this historic venture! Page 10 YTC Connection YTC Fire & Safety Department Frank McVeety is the YTC Fire Inspector /Advisor with firefighting techniques and practices; while also generating reports many years of education and experience. Direct involve- on fires and incidents along with inspection checklists. Current ment with the First Nations includes fire/safety planning, activities include: Public building fire & safety inspections on all conducting and implementing training in structural fire- four First Nation communities. Setting up contractors for recertifi- fighting and wildland firefighting for First nations fire de- cation of all fire extinguishers for each community upon expiration, partments. We also provide training in the use, operation, this will only be for business buildings schools. With all homes we restoration and maintenance of fire trucks, equipment and are working on securing funding from governments to buy smoke/ bunker gear cleaning, systems and facilities including the carbon dioxide detectors and 2lb fire extinguishers. Please keep fire protection resources of First Nation communities. We in mind the following: also assist with planning and completing fire inspections in schools, business buildings and homes in the communi- ties; assist in organizing, implementing and conduct fire  We offer visitations from local fire dept members and prevention programs. Prepare reports and recommenda- Sparky the fire dog when available. tions for the correction of possible hazardous conditions.  We’re happy to assist elders with their fires when used in Being a Fire/ Safety Advisor, does require a lot of traveling their ceremonies when asked. and outdoor activity, demonstrating and training others in  We wish everyone a Happy Holiday season and fire safety reminder to all the membership of the First Nations. YTC Housing Report

Kathleen Griffin heads this department and as federally through the various regions. Arnold Jerry part of the ongoing Strategic Planning there is has submitted a proposal and we are currently ongoing quarterly reports to the Chiefs & Exec- waiting for a response as to allocation of any fund- utive of the Yellowhead Tribal Council. Infor- ing. Areas of focus are on student housing, afforda- mation links are composed of meetings to ble housing and off-reserve housing grants. Dis- coordinate set up of a Master Housing data- cussions also included a down payment assistance base. We also focus on hiring summer stu- program for off-reserve housing. With the AOSA dents so inspections can be completed for all renovation we assisted with project management of nations. For the Climate change Initiative there the renovation to better streamline invoices, work are training opportunities available to become change orders, attended bidding and award meet- an energy auditor through the ASETS program ings etc. There are other items that we will include -Housing & Infrastructure: The YTC Chiefs in future issues of the YTC Connection. Have a committee on Housing and Infrastructure has a great holiday season. working group. Urban Housing: $120 Million over 4 years delivered through the province of Alberta. The second stream of funding is $40 Billion over 10 years and would be delivered Project Maintenance & Management The Maintenance Management Advisor BMS system installation, boilers system replace- provides advice, assistance and service for ment and LED lights installation. The Energy Au- the First Nations of O`Chiese First Nation, dit project has been completed and the funding Sunchild First Nation, Alexis Nakota Sioux received was $24,161.50. Solar panel installa- First Nation and Alexander First Nation for tion project funding also has been received for new and/or proposed projects as well for $124,609.89 and the installation has been com- the existing public and residential assets. pleted. Additional information to follow in future This department is headed by Ercan newsletters. Bozkurt and highlights include: Retrofit project: funding has been received of $1 million and this project is completed with replacement of YTC Admin rooftop units, Page 11 YTC Connection YTC Health Initiatives The YTC Health Program employs between RMH PCN, FNs Health Wellness programs and ensuring the staff with funding from FNIHB. The Managers, and FNIHB. The Indian programs are individually suited to funding is channeled through an Residential Schools Resolution the needs of the nations. Through agreement signed between the Health Support Program (IRS gathering information directly from Yellowhead Tribal Development RHSP) provides mental health and the member Nations we were able to Foundation (YTDF) Board of emotional support services to eligible ensure various experts are available Directors and the YTC Executive former Indian Residential School for our members. of Chiefs. The Health Director/Co- students and their families These include: Psychologists – to Management Liaison is under the throughout all phases of the Indian enhance the skills and services of general direction of the YTC CEO Residential School Settlement the Mental Health frontline workers with a Health Steering Committee Agreement. As well the IRS support and provide additional training and that advises on the program. Each workers have been very helpful in support for the community NNADAP YTC member First Nation Health helping First Nation members with teams; Director serves as a member of the various paperwork required in Psychiatric Nurse – resident expert the YTC Health Steering filing for Day school Claims. Please on medications and interactions with Committee. Current programs and contact your worker for further other medications, involvement with services include: Rehabilitation information. Resolution Health community prevention programming; Services, Registered Dietitian, and Support Program Services are safe, assisting with improving access to Health Director/Co-Management confidential, respectful, and services, increasing collaboration Liaison. Registered Dietitians are non-judgmental. The Resolution and communication with all; to assist health professionals with special Health Support Worker position was through prevention, promotion training. They help people make developed for the Indian Residential information sessions possible ways food choices that promote health School Survivors. In Alberta there to help remove the stigma and wellness. The main goal of are 43 Resolution Health Support surrounding mental health issues; YTC’s nutrition program is to help Workers (RHSW) and 28 full time Clinical Social Workers – working prevent and treat diseases like Cultural Support providers within 26 directly with the on reserve teams, diabetes, heart disease, cancers, organizations. We also provide such as NNADAP workers, to and kidney disease. Rehabilitation leadership to the YTC Member support and assist with improving services are provided by licensed Nations through the Mental Health access to services; and to physical and/or occupational and Wellness Pilot Project and collaborate and enhance on reserve therapists upon assessment of a assistance with the specific MHW prevention and promote information variety of physical injuries or p r o g r a m m i n g e l e m e n t s , sessions within the Nations. illnesses. Based on individual enhancement of partnership community needs assessments, relations, building of the MHW team/ the following services are human resources and administra- available at YTC First Nations: tion, capturing the results of the Physical Therapy, Occupational project through data collection and Therapy, Massage Therapy, evaluation, increasing access to Nurse Practitioner, and RMH services for community members, Primary Care Network Chronic in cre a sin g co mmu n ica t io n , Care. The last two services have collaboration and sharing in been implemented for O'Chiese community engagement. We are Merry Christmas and and Sunchild First Nations as a also assisting the member nations in result of collaborative effort developing their Mental Health and a Happy NEW YEAR! Page 12 YTC Connection First Nations Students Support Program

The First Nations Students Support Program has seen significant growth in the services it provides to our First Nations students from the four Nations. Led by Dr. Tracey Poitras-Collins, this innovate pro- gram has expanded its operations. In addition to the literacy, numeracy and student retention compo- nents of this program we also provide guidance in preparing, updating and reporting on school plans. Each school should have a school plan which outlines their goals of the school for the next 3 or 5 years that is developed with the help of community and other stakeholders. This is a living document that guides school improvement and provides direction with results to support each schools’ goals for im- provement and awareness of current trends in provincial education. Being sovereign schools, we un- derstand that our students need to excel in both our school systems and with the euro-centric education system. As of September 1, 2019, all provincial school principals will require a leadership certificate in addition to their teaching certificate. However, as First Nation schools, we are not required to have these certificates but we should be aware of the quality standards required for these certificates. We also pro- vide teaching evaluation services to recommend whether or not a teacher receives their teaching certif- icate. Our decisions for program implementation are evidence based; that is, we ensure the programs are implemented and have established success records because we want the best for all children and youth in the YTC nations. We will be further exploring the 5 Pillars of the Reading Program, Math Catchers Program, Mathology, and culture infusion as core curriculum. We will be taking our high school leadership team for further skill development. We are innovators and we are proud to serve the young students from the respective Nations. FNSSP Services Provided to our Nations  YOUTH CONFERENCES  LAND BASED LEARNING FOUNDATIONAL PRINCIPLES  TEACHING TREATIES VISION STATEMENT  SPEAK OUT EVENTS  STUDENT LEADERSHIP TEAMS Yellowhead Tribal Council students will excel in  TECHNICAL SUPPORT mainstream education while reconnecting and  DIGITAL LEARNING retaining their respective language and culture.  LITERACY VALUE STATEMENT: NUMERACY  Staff and students will behave in a professional,  COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT WITH PARENTS/GUARDIANS responsible manner while contributing to the  EDUCATION PLANNING success of improving literacy, numeracy and  ASSESSMENT TO INFORM INSTRUCTION student retention.  DATA MANAGEMENT  REGULAR SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR MEETINGS MISSION STATEMENT:  ANNUAL RESULTS REPORTS The Yellowhead Tribal Council exists to compli-  BUILDING STAFF CAPACITY ment and support each respective school to  SUPPORTING REGULAR ELDERS/ KNOWLEDGE KEEPER INVOLVEMENT IN THE SCHOOLS increase literacy, numeracy and student reten-  REINFORCING OUR CULTURE & LANGUAGE tion while valuing each community.

FIRST CHRISTMAS Many Years Ago Page 13 YTC Connection

A Pictorial Representation of Sovereignty

Take a look at the picture leaders as this has often picture above is a above, the Chiefs of the been the way in which representation of all things Y e l l o w h e a d T r i b a l Nations determine their s o v e r e i g n , a s w e Council together are collective direction for determine our leadership strong collectively. As m a n y g e n e r a t i o n s . through our own customs i n d i v i d u a l N a t i o n s We must be proud in who handed down to us by past however; they work we are as the Original generations. Remember to protect and enhance People of this land and that our Rights are portable Treaty #6 as per their remember that there are and they continue to own Nations direction young people coming evolve and this is because and determination. Our behind us. Often we are o f m a n y s t r u g g l e s Chiefs & Headmen/Head told that we are only overcome from past and women are oftentimes borrowing the land we live current Leaders. One must our voices for those who on and we need to leave it remember that our foot- cannot speak. Our Elders in a sustainable state for steps today leave imprints serve as guides to our the future generations. The for tomorrow’s generation. Mike Hartley: Retiring after many Years of Service After 14 years of dedicated service to the Yellowhead Tribal Council, Mike Hartley is retiring from the Finance career he started so long ago. “I’ve served YTC for 14 years” Mike stated. On behalf of the Execu- tive of Chiefs, the YTC Administration Staff and the staff from all the YTC entities; we wish you the very best Mike and we thank you very much for your many years of hard work and dedication. A very heartfelt and warm extension of gratitude to you and your family and we hope that you enjoy retirement Mike and feel free to stop by and visit us any- time. Page 14 YELLOWHEAD TRIBAL COUNCIL - STAFF DIRECTORY YTC Connection

DEPARTMENT NAME JOB TITLE EMAIL EXTENSION Administration Laverne Arcand Chief Executive Officer [email protected] 316

Administration Carollyne Robertson Executive Assistant [email protected] 315

Administration Mike Hartley Financial Advisor [email protected] 314

Administration Carolyn Buffalo Environment [email protected] 311

Administration Joy Sandy HR Officer [email protected] 310

Administration Candice Willier Policy Analyst/Researcher [email protected] 309

Administration Nadine Cardinal Op Support/Reception [email protected] 304

Administration Marek Tyler [email protected] 304

Administration Kevin Fineday Computer Technician [email protected] 304

Finance Dionne Cardinal Financial Controller [email protected] 313

Finance Josephine Cardinal Payroll/Accts Payable [email protected] 312

Tech Ercan Bozkurt Project MM Advisor [email protected] 334

Tech Frank McVeety Fire/Safety Advisor [email protected] 326

Tech Kathleen Griffin Housing Inspector [email protected] 331

ASETS Yvette Alexis Coordinator [email protected] 343

ASETS Farrah Bourque ASETS Assistant [email protected] 344

ASETS Rodney Mustus ASETS Finance [email protected] 342

ASETS Tina Reid YTDF Childcare Coordinator [email protected] 358

CFS Derek Chewka Director - CFS [email protected] 319

CFS Jacqueline Letendre Project Assistant [email protected] 320

CFS Bertha Anderson-Laboucan CFS Researcher [email protected] 321

FNSSP Tracey Poitras-Collins Manager [email protected] 351

FNSSP Ryan Blesse Information Technologist [email protected] 346

FNSSP Sharise Roteski Native Education [email protected] 347

FNSSP Tyson Frencheater [email protected] 348

FNSSP Kim Whitehorse Admin Support [email protected] 349 HEALTH Anne Bird Health Liaison [email protected] 354

HEALTH Rhonda Waskahat Health Support/Planner [email protected] 355

HEALTH Jerome Yellowdirt Opioid Project Coordinator [email protected] 355

HEALTH Beverly Swampy Rehab Services Coordinator [email protected] 356

HEALTH Lauren Renlund Dietician [email protected] 357

HEALTH Beverly Jackson [email protected] 353

IRS Gordon Burnstick Alexander [email protected] 780.217.0061

IRS Howard Mustus Jr. Alexis [email protected] 780.920.4187

IRS Theresa Frencheater Sunchild/O’Chiese [email protected] 780.445.4373

Natamoowin Jodi Calahoo-Stonehouse Executive Director [email protected] 345

PSSSP Dawn Arcand PSSSP Manager [email protected] 307

PSSSP Tiffany Arcand Data Entry Clerk [email protected] 308

Page 15 YTC Connection Profile Story: Honoring the Knowledge Keepers

For the students at the way our people learn from Y e l l o w h e a d T r i b a l one another.” Gerry is a College there is a an proud member of the opportunity to sit with Sunchild First Nation and various Elders from the has been an active four member Nations. supporter of various Elder Gerry Redbear is schools for many years; one of the Elders who including the College. provides advice and Among providing advice to guidance to students who students, Gerry is also need it all throughout the active in Treaty Protection year. A humble and wise for future generations. “I man, Gerry is the type of would like the opportunity Elder who listens first and to talk to some of the then provides advice Alberta and Canadian based on his own leaders; they need to be experiences from his life. reminded of the sacred A very insightful man; promises that were made SUNCHILD FIRST Gerry values his family, between our Nations.” As culture and language as First Nations people we NATION important values in living have always learned from his life in a good way. “In our Elders. Knowledge life, you can learn so Keepers like Gerry are much more by just always willing to share listening to people. s t o r i e s a n d t h e i r Telling stories and knowledge but what you do sharing experiences is a with it is entirely up to you.

ON THAT DAY On that day, children are taken from their home On that day, the strength of a Nation is tested and shown On that day, families are torn apart On that day, pain is felt deep within our hearts On that day, children endure hardships and pain On that day, tears fall down like rain On that day, the last school ends On that day, broken hearts and spirits are on the mend On that day, the road to healing begins On that day, the strength of a Nation wins To walk the Red Road, we have begun our way Page 16 YTC Connection

YTC ELDERS

A FEW OF THE College Staff YTC Connection UPCOMING EVENTS IN THE YTC NATIONS

December 2019

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Alexander First Nation Store Grand

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 AFN Gas O’Chiese O’Chiese Bar Grand Christmas First Nation Opening Community Staff Dinner

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Alexander FN xmas celebration

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

Christmas Christmas Boxing Day Eve Day YTC STAFF HOLIDAYS

DECEMBER 19th - 29 30 31 1 JANUARY 6th 2020

New Year’s New Year’s Eve Day Main Address - Box 3420 Originally introduced by the Morinville AB, T8R1S3 Spanish in the 14th Century, horses have changed the way Edmonton Office First Nations people traveled, 17304 - 105 Avenue fought wars, hunted and Edmonton AB gathered. As you can see above, our ancestors before Phone: 587.524.0180 us didn't need saddles. Fax: 587.524.0181

The Start of Ongoing Communications

That concludes the very first edition of the diligently to ensure that the best possible YTC Connection and we thank you for outcome is achieved in any meeting re- your time in reading through this tool of garding various situations that arise. communication for your benefit. This This newsletter will continue to serve as newsletter represents important, critical the means in which you will be informed steps in achieving goals of communica- as to what that means to our people now tion for the Yellowhead Tribal Council. and in the future, all the while keeping One, it creates a platform for YTC to com- you informed of the ongoing operations municate various programs, projects and of the Yellowhead Tribal Council. We updates to you, the reader. Second, it is you a wonderful holiday season with also a platform for informing the people of family and friends and to watch for future the political directives of our Nations at and upcoming issues of the YTC Con- various times. The staff and Leadership nection. of the Yellowhead Tribal Council work

Collective Collaboration Today for Tomorrow