Everybody Has a Piece of the Puzzle Citxw Nlaka’Pamux Assembly Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report

Everybody has a Piece of the Puzzle Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report

July 2016 Harold Tarbell / Beverley O'Neil

ABOUT THE CITXW NLAKA’PAMUX ASSEMBLY The Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly (CNA) was formed for the purpose of managing and administering the Ashcroft Indian Band, Boston Bar First Nation, Coldwater Indian Band, Cook’s Ferry Indian Band, Nicomen Indian Band, Nooaitch Indian Band, Shackan Indian Band and Siska Indian Band (Participating Bands’) commitments in the Participation Agreement and Economic Community Development Agreement as well as overseeing the Nlaka’pamux Trust and Trust distributions. (www.cna-trust.ca)

The Consulting Team This project was performed by Harold Tarbell (Mohawk) of Tarbell Facilitation Network (www.tarbell.ca) and Beverley O’Neil (Ktunaxa) of O’Neil Marketing & Consulting (www.designingnations.com). Each consultant has more than 25 years of experience working with First Nations and Indigenous groups with building strategies, research, and economic development.

Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly Everyone has a Piece of the Puzzle: Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report

Contents

1 Introduction – How We Got Here ...... 1 2 CNA Participating Bands Profile – A Snapshot ...... 4 2.1 Population ...... 4 2.2 Occupation and Industry Activity ...... 6 2.3 Health and Social Services ...... 7 2.4 Social Activities and Employment Services ...... 8 3 Other Experiences – Literature Review ...... 9 3.1 Best Practice Principles and Criteria ...... 9 3.2 Other Youth Studies ...... 10 4 Discussing Ideas – Roundtable Discussions ...... 13 5 Gathering Individual Responses – Surveys ...... 18 6 Conclusion and Recommendations ...... 22 6.1 Strategic Approach ...... 22 6.2 Key Recommendations ...... 22 Appendix A: List of Community Coordinators ...... 28 Appendix B: Survey Questionnaire ...... 29 Appendix C: Survey Results ...... 33

List of Tables Table 1: Regional Umbrella Organizations for First Nations Health ...... 7 Table 2: Best Practice Principles and Criteria...... 9 Table 3: BC Aboriginal Friendship Centres Aboriginal Youth Direct Supports Needed – Merritt & Kamloops ...... 12 Table 4: Top Programs and Services Rank ...... 19

List of Figures Figure 1: CNA Priorities ...... 1 Figure 2: Location of Roundtable Sessions ...... 2 Figure 3: Roundtable Sessions and Attendance ...... 3 Figure 4: Band Population ...... 4 Figure 5: CNA Band Elder and Youth Population 2011 ...... 5 Figure 6: Band vs Municipal Employed Rates, Census 2011 ...... 6 Figure 7: Formula to Reducing Individual and Community Problems ...... 10 Figure 8: Share of Survey Respondents by Band ...... 18 Figure 9: Top Eight Programs and Services ...... 19

Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly Everyone has a Piece of the Puzzle: Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Recommendations

1 Introduction – How We Got Here

In 2013, the Ashcroft, Boston Bar, Coldwater, Cook’s Ferry, Nicomen, Nooaitch, Shackan and Siska Indian Bands entered into a Participation Agreement and Economic Community Development Agreement with Teck Highland Valley Copper (HVC) and the Province of British Columbia (Province) over compensation for an expansion of the existing mine located outside of Logan Lake. The HVC mine operated in the traditional lands of the Nlaka’pamux Nation for more than 60 years. Teck became owner of the mine about 30 years ago. Until the agreement was signed, the HVC operated without a formal relationship with First Nations of which few opportunities and benefits were granted to the First Nations. The Agreement specifies shared mine profits and other benefits related to the mine. The terms also resulted in the creation of a Trust. The Trust founded the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Society, a not-for-profit entity, made up of the Chiefs of each of the Participating Bands. Both the Trust and the Society’s operations are bound by terms, specifically Section 6 of the Trust Agreement, on how the funds are managed, how money is shared amongst the Participating Bands, and what the funds can support. Accordingly, funds can only be used to “assist in the long term socio-economic well-being of the beneficiaries (i.e., the Participating Bands), including the improvement of their cultural, communal and economic sustainability.” The priority areas and desired results are outlined in the Statement of Trust Priorities, Goals and Outcomes 2014-2016. These are reviewed every three years. The eight priorities are illustrated below.

Culture, Environment Social Economic Education Community Sports & Governance Heritage, /Natural Development Development /Training Infrastructure Recreation Language Resources

Figure 1: CNA Priorities Within the process of defining priorities, goals and outcomes, the Chiefs specifically identified Elders and Youth goals within their Social Development priority. Fulfillment of these initiatives of strengthening involves stronger relationships and support systems with Elders by first ensuring there

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016 is an opportunity to hear their collective voice through an Elders Council, and fostering of Youth leadership through skills and creation of a Youth Council. As part of these priorities, the Chiefs felt more information on the activities for each of these groups was needed. The CNA wanted to hear from Elders and Youth on what activities and support they want and subsequently issued a Request for Proposals on Elders and Youth Roundtables. This project was to coordinate and facilitate community and urban-based roundtables for each target group, and then provide a report on findings and a program guide. The project scope was expanded to include a survey which invited Participating Band Elders and Youth, as well as other community members, to provide their input on program priorities and principles. Further, interviews with select leaders, and other research and studies on Elder and Youth programs and services were reviewed. The following report summarizes the findings from the Roundtable discussions, and these additional research activities. The findings of this first stage shape the footing of an Elders and Youth Program Guide. The guide is intended to provide direction to program development and planning, as well as expands knowledge of the existing and possible capacity amongst CNA Participating Bands’ Elders and Youth. For the purposes of this project, Elders were considered to be 50 years old and older, while Youth were between the ages of 16 and 25 years. Each community also applied their own definition when inviting participation in the project resulting in some youth being younger than 16 years old, and some ‘emerging’ Elders (e.g., younger than 50 years). The project also allowed for people with interest in each group to participate in the project through the survey. Ideas and views for Elders and Youth were gathered through roundtable discussions, surveys and interviews. In addition, and as available, communities provided background plans and information on other Elder and Youth initiatives. There were 13 roundtable sessions, of which eight were in Participating Band communities, and the other five in urban settings. These sessions were held between February 2 and June 1, 2016.

Figure 2: Location of Roundtable Sessions

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

There was 146 people in total attending sessions, being 7% of the total Participating Bands membership. Of those in attendance, half attended three sessions - 19% at the Merritt urban session, and 15% each at the Siska and Nooaitch Band sessions. Over two thirds (71%) of participants identified as Elders, which was approximately 31% of the estimated Elder population in the Bands. Youth attendance (n=42) represented 7% of the estimated Youth population in the Bands (see Figure 5: CNA Band Elder and Youth Population 2011). Elders sessions were held in late afternoon while Youth sessions were held in the evenings with a joint meal in between and draw prizes offered to incent attendance by both Elders and Youth.

Figure 3: Roundtable Sessions and Attendance

Kamloops Vancouver Chilliwack 3% Nicomen 1% 0% 6% Kelowna Shackan 1% 0% Merritt Cook's Ferry 19% 6%

Ashcroft 10% Siska 146 15% Coldwater 12% Nooaitch Boston Bar 15% 12%

The survey provided a second method for people to share and prioritize their ideas (see Appendix B: Survey). Respondents were collected through the roundtable discussions, by Community Coordinators through their outreach methods (e.g., in community newsletter, through social media such as Facebook, by email, at community gatherings), and was available online. The CNA also distributed the survey and invited participation in the roundtables and survey through its social media and other distribution systems. At close of the surveys, there was 194 respondents of which 192 fully completed the survey. Of the surveys submitted, 40% (n=77) were completed outside the roundtable setting (self-completed). CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

2 CNA Participating Bands Profile – A Snapshot

In developing Elders and Youth programs, it is important to understand the Participating Bands, their industries and markets, and the regional environments.

2.1 Population The eight Participating Bands have a combined registered population of over 2,100 members, of which one third (32%) are members of the Coldwater Indian Band with 14% being members of Cook’s Ferry. Shackan and Nicomen have the fewest members, being 5% of the total population each.

Figure 4: Band Population

Band Population Ashcroft IRI, 255, Siska, 307, 13% 10% Shackan, 121, 5% Boston Bar, 246, 10% Nooaitch, 260, 11%

Nicomen**, 133, 5%

Coldwater, 795, 32% Cook's Ferry**, 331, 14%

*Census Canada, 2011, On reserve **Estimates based on Band membership & Seniors are 65+years

The Elders and Youth on-reserve member population varies. Cook’s Ferry has the highest on-reserve youth population, and highest off-reserve population, which according to Cook’s Ferry is 80%. Boston Bar and Shackan have more Elders than Youth living on-reserve; Shackan Indian Band’s on-reserve Elder population has six times more Elders than Youth.

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Figure 5: CNA Band Elder and Youth Population 2011 Band On-Reserve Demographic Population* Census 2011

600

500

400

300

200

100

0 Ashcroft Boston Coldwat Cook's Nicome Nooaitc Shackan Siska IRI Bar er Ferry** n** h Youth & Children <25 yrs 35 50 135 166 67 35 5 100 Adults 25-49 205 101 560 146 59 190 86 172 Elders 50+ 15 95 100 20 8 35 30 35

Youth & Children <25 yrs Adults 25-49 Elders 50+

*Census 2011 **Data not up-to-date or available for Cook’s Ferry and Nicomen Band

Another demographic worthy of review when developing programs and activities for Youth is the employed and unemployed rates on-reserve and in the region. The employed rate identifies all persons over the age of 15 including people who are no longer participating in the labour force, while the unemployed rate is calculated on those in the labour force seeking employment (those no longer participating / actively seeking employment are not calculated in the unemployment rate).1 These rates indicate the number of persons available to participate in employment and training programs. Except Nicomen Indian Band, the employed rate for all CNA Participating Bands is lower than the municipality of Merritt (see Figure 6: Band vs Municipal Employed Rates, Census 2011) which had an employed rate of 51.5% for the same period. In the Bands and Merritt area, there is a large portion of the working age population who are no longer seeking employment or participating in the labour force.2 In Ashcroft area, the Ashcroft Indian Band’s employed rate is nearly half of the employed rate of the municipality (23.1% vs 43.5%).

1 Defined by Census 2011 – the employment rate measures the total population aged 15 years and over by labour force status, against those unemployed and those not in the labour force. For example, of the Merritt 5,995 population, 375 were unemployed and 2,395 not in the labour force, meaning 2,900 were employed or 51.5% of the population. 2 No data was available for Cook’s Ferry or Boston Bar Indian Bands as they did not participate in Census 2011. CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Figure 6: Band vs Municipal Employed Rates, Census 2011

Band vs Municipal Employed Rate*

62.5% 70.0% 60.0% 47.6% 51.5% 43.8% 43.5% 50.0% 40.0% 40.0% 30.0% 23.1% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Ashcroft Coldwater Nicomen Nooaitch Shackan Siska ALL Merritt Ashcroft IRI Municipal Municipal

*SOURCE: Census 2011. Data not available for Cook’s Ferry or Boston Bar Indian Bands.

2.2 Occupation and Industry Activity The Participating Bands are situated within two provincial economic regions – the Thompson- Okanagan and Mainland/Southwest Regions. Within these regions are regional districts where more specific economic and industry data is available). The regional districts that each Participating Band is situated is:  Thompson-Nicola (Thompson-Okanagan Region includes City of Merritt and the Municipality of Ashcroft) – Ashcroft, Coldwater, Cook’s Ferry, Nooaitch, Shackan; and  Fraser Valley (Mainland/Southwest Region includes the Village of Lytton) – Boston Bar, Nicomen, Siska. The Thompson-Okanagan is well-known for its tourism and wine industries which are primarily in the Okanagan. The regional district of Thompson-Nicola main population base is in Kamloops which accounts for 75% of the population. The Thompson-Nicola relies on Mining, Forestry, Agriculture and Transport for its key economic contributors, while the Okanagan area has strong tourism and agriculture bases. Major projects proposed in the area are small scale energy projects (wind, green, hydroelectric dams), a golf and sporting club, and a landfill gas. The Thompson-Okanagan unemployment rate for June 2016 was 7.0%.3 The key municipalities of this area are Merritt, Ashcroft and Lytton. The primary industries in Merritt are Services, Forestry/Manufacturing, Mining and Education (being the local school district and the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology). Males are mostly employed in Trades, Transportation, Equipment Operators and Production, while females are mostly employed in Sales and Service. The Coquihalla Highway is a primary transportation route in the region being the connector to Kamloops and Kelowna for commercial and recreational transportation. Top employers in Merritt are: School District No. 58 (education), Interior Savings (banking), Ministry of Forests (government), Nicola Valley Health Care (health care), Ardew Wood Products (manufacturing), Aspen

3 Source: Labour Force Survey data, three-month moving average (unemployment and employment data) https://www.workbc.ca/Labour-Market-Information/Regional-Profiles/7 CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Planers Ltd. (manufacturing, NMV Lumber Ltd. (manufacturing), Tolko Forest Products (manufacturing), Douglas Lake Ranch (agriculture and tourism), and Highland Valley Copper (mining). Ashcroft’s economy relies on transportation. Both of Canada's major railroads, Canadian Pacific and Canadian National, travel through Ashcroft as well as Highway 97C connecting it with the Trans- Canada Highway and the Coquihalla Highway. Mining is the primary employer of males in the area, while females work mostly in Accommodations and Foods. The top employers in the Ashcroft area are: Highland Valley Copper (copper ore), Wastech Services Ltd. (landfill), IG Machine & Fibres (roofing granules), and Ashcroft Treating (Custom Treating Ties, Timbers and Pilings). Lytton relies on tourism and transportation, being through routes for the railway, as economic contributors. Top employers are: Kumsheen Rafting Resort (tourism), Lytton First Nation (government), School District 74 (education), and Village of Lytton (government). No occupational information was available for the village.

2.3 Health and Social Services Health services are directed by two provincial health authorities – Interior Region Health Authority, and Fraser Salish Health Authority. Each of these health authorities are responsible for ensuring publicly funded health services to all residents in their service area, and have Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) agreements with First Nations whose territories the health authorities operate within. The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) has an established relationship province-wide with these groups. The FNHA facilitates and advocates for Aboriginal health within the provincial structure, and supports regional Aboriginal representation through umbrella health organizations which are operated by First Nations and receives funding through First Nations and Inuit Health BC Region, work with their region’s health authority. The umbrella health organizations coordinate the activities of a number of member organizations (e.g., First Nations) for a common purpose. These umbrella organizations are:

Table 1: Regional Umbrella Organizations for First Nations Health Umbrella Health Organizations Communities Covered Interior Region Health Authority Heskw'en'scutxe Health Services Society Siska Cook's Ferry Band Scw'exmx Community Health Services Society Coldwater Shackan Nooaitch Skeesht Health Society Nicomen Fraser Salish Health Authority Fraser Thompson Indian Services Society Boston Bar Other Bands: Boothroyd, Spuzzum, Oregon Jack Creek

*No umbrella organization in the Interior Region was identified for Ashcroft Indian Band

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

The seven First Nation directives provide and important focus for how First Nation controlled health services are being transformed within British Columbia. These are: 1. Community-Driven, Nation-Based 2. Increase First Nations Decision-Making and Control 3. Improve Services 4. Foster Meaningful Collaboration and Partnership 5. Develop Human and Economic Capacity 6. Be Without Prejudice to First Nations Interests 7. Function at a High Operational Standard For all Bands, specialized health services are acquired from the key service centers of Merritt, Vancouver, Kamloops and Kelowna. Key projects in the N’laka’pamux area for 2015 was mental health clinicians (MHC), and child and youth MHC, improved eHealth and crisis response services.

2.4 Social Activities and Employment Services Social initiatives are often delivered by the Band and linked with corresponding provincial or federal service providers. Employment services in many regions of British Columbia are provided by Aboriginal Skills Employment Training organizations funded through Human Resources Development Canada. There is no ASET delivery agent in the Participating Bands service areas. Instead the Bands and the CNA deliver their own employment services. Both Cook’s Ferry and Coldwater Indian Bands have gymnasiums in their communities, and all have a Band hall. However, most sports programs are accessed through local / municipal programs. Nicomen and Nooaitch Indian Bands each have libraries, although neither community library is actively operating. The Scw’exmx Community Health Services Society (SCHSS) coordinates monthly gatherings and regular activities for Coldwater, Shackan, and Nooaitch Indian Bands. For Band members living in urban centers, many go to local Aboriginal Friendship Centers for cultural and social activities and services. In each of the urban centers, employment services are available.  Chilliwack/Fraser Valley – Sto:lo Aboriginal Skills & Employment Training (SASET) www.saset.ca  Kamloops – Shuswap Nation Tribal Council (SNTC) www.shuswapnation.org  Kelowna – Okanagan Training and Development Council (OTDC) www.otdc.org  Vancouver – Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services Society www.accessfutures.com Post-Secondary schools in the immediate area are: Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) in Merritt, Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Kamloops, and other post-secondary schools in Kelowna and Metro Vancouver. CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

3 Other Experiences – Literature Review

A brief literature search was conducted to identify studies that focused on Elders and/or youth. We looked at the BC Association of Friendship Centers youth project, a study in Ontario, and solicited the assistance of the National Collaborating Centre for Aboriginal Health (NCCAH) located at the University of Northern British Columbia with identifying literature on “engagement and programming best practices for youth and Elders”. The NCCAH research relates to specific sectors such as smoking or to other countries such as Australia.

3.1 Best Practice Principles and Criteria The following best practices principles and criteria are drawn from literature that relates directly to First Nations/Aboriginal peoples in Canada. There is consistency of themes and principles across the lessons learned and best practices that can provide significant guidance to how the CNA develops and implements programs and services at the collective, aggregate and community levels as part of this strategic approach.

Table 2: Best Practice Principles and Criteria

Aboriginal Aboriginal Elders4 Aboriginal Youth5 Health6 NAHO Criteria  Communities pull together and  Understanding and  Basis is the  Impact share a common approach to ensure integrating cultural community  Sustainability that seniors have coordinated, identity  Wholism  Responsiveness comprehensive health care and safe  Increasing Youth  Integration of  Client focus, living environments, allowing them Engagement Indigenous including gender to stay in their homes.  Fostering Youth knowledge and social  Dedicated Aboriginal health centres, Empowerment  Builds on inclusion case managers, discharge planners,  Establishing and community  Access, and patient navigators are available maintaining effective strengths and coordination and as necessary supports to help seniors partnerships needs integration and their families make their way  Partnership and  Efficiency and through the complicated maze of collaboration flexibility health care services across  Sustainability jurisdictions.  Leadership  Effectiveness  Community health staff who are not  Innovation regulated health professionals are  Potential for recognized as playing a key support replication

4 Canada’s most vulnerable: Improving health care for First Nations, Inuit and Métis seniors (2013), Health Council of Canada, Page 26-31. See also Equity, dignity and respect: Creating cultural safety for Aboriginal people in urban health, Health Council of Canada (2012) 5 Crooks, C., Chiodo, D., Thomas, D., Burns, S., Camillo, C., Engaging and Empowering Aboriginal Youth: A Toolkit for Service Providers, 2nd Edition, Page 12 6 Ways Tried and True: Aboriginal Methodological Framework for the Canadian Best Practices Initiative April 2015 page 11-15

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Aboriginal Aboriginal Elders4 Aboriginal Youth5 Health6 NAHO Criteria role for Aboriginal seniors in remote  Health and communities. policy issue  Increased use of telemedicine, identification or videoconferencing, and bringing resolution care to the community reduces  Capacity for medical travel and improves cultural evaluation7 safety.  Acknowledging and integrating traditional culture contributes to improving the quality of care, patient safety, and quality of life for Aboriginal seniors.  Reducing isolation through traditional and cultural activities is part of good health care.

*SOURCE: Extracted from research conducted by the National Collaborating Centre for Aboriginal Health

3.2 Other Youth Studies A study profiling urban Aboriginal youth in the Waterloo Region of Ontario described methods to reduce the suicide rates among Aboriginal youth and ways to improve their quality of life. It cites researchers’ conclusions that “strengthening the community as a whole rather than focusing on individual youth will reduce these numbers” (Chander & Lalonde, 2008; Environics, 2010; Hill & Cooke, 2014; Totten, 2009), and offered the formula: Connection to

Reduces rates Aboriginal Aboriginal of Individual & Culture Community Community Problems

Figure 7: Formula to Reducing Individual and Community Problems

7 National Aboriginal Health Organization (NAHO) from Marriott Mable (2001) cited in Archibald, Linda (2006) Final Report of the Aboriginal Healing Foundation: Promising Health Practices in Aboriginal Communities, Volume III, Chapter 2, Pages 6-7 CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

It also cautioned that not providing cultural identify and history programming leaves Aboriginal youth at risk, and added that Western and Aboriginal community-based approaches are the most effective. The BC Aboriginal Friendship Society also conducted the Economic Empowerment of BC’s Aboriginal Youth (EEBCAY) which included youth engagement workshops in key Aboriginal friendship centers province-wide. The project provided opportunities through workshops, interviews and other research for Aboriginal youth and other stakeholders (e.g., Friendship Centers, employers, academia, others) to share their view on ways to “support Aboriginal youth in achieving success in employment and education.” Youth were identified as ages 14 to 24 years. The project identified barriers and opportunities that affect education and employment aspirations and generated community-based solutions and relationships to help Aboriginal youth fulfill their aspirations. It also operated on the principles of: Participation, Protection, Partnership, Respect, Empowerment, and Gratitude. Of interest to the CNA are the youth workshops in Merritt (123 participants) and Kamloops (12 participants); there were no events in Kelowna, Ashcroft, Vancouver, Chilliwack or Lytton. In attendance were school age youth (e.g., under 18 years), of which a large group was 14 years or younger, and many were status Indians. Youth were personally interested in travel, becoming happy, wealthy, become parents, become educated, employment, and give back. Educational aspirations covered completing high school and academic and trades education, and entrepreneurship. They want to be connected with their culture and know the traditional values, and be able to connect with role models in and outside their community (e.g., Elders, athletes). In order for youth to fulfill education and/or employment interests, understanding of the barriers they encounter is needed. In Merritt, youth felt leaving the community for employment or education were deterrents. Further, 42% of Merritt youth participants believed that racism and stereotypes exist in school and the workplace, and consequently are barriers to Aboriginal youth. Both sessions identified transportation, self-esteem (fear of failure, confidence), lack of cultural knowledge, as well as educational, community and financial supports, and mentors posed problems. Through questionnaires, youth confidentially selected supports needed for them to get and maintain the jobs and education they want. The most commonly selected responses for Merritt and Kamloops are listed in Table 3: CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Table 3: BC Aboriginal Friendship Centres Aboriginal Youth Direct Supports Needed – Merritt & Kamloops Direct Support Merritt Kamloops Mentors – Elder, other 25% -- Affordable Housing -- 63% Driver’s license 32% -- Family 93% 100% Friendship Centres – or other similar community social service providers 25% 75% Funding – money for any type of education or training -- 75% School-based supports 25% 63% Transportation 35% --

In reviewing the above table of direct supports needed, consideration of the relationship of the Youth to the First Nations and the Aboriginal community in each of the two communities – Merritt and Kamloops – must be given. Likely the majority of the Merritt Youth participants were from or connected with the local Indian Bands, while in Kamloops, the youth participants were from families that were not affiliated with the Secwepemc nation (e.g., from area Bands). Consequently, the Friendship center and other funding supports have a greater relevance to urban Aboriginal youth. The Merritt workshop also identified – Affordable housing (21%), and Affordable recreation facilities and activities, such as sports, art, events, etc. (19%). Other solutions to improving Aboriginal youth engagement in education and employment were:  Encourage improvements to school system – includes educational components on colonialism and the residential school  Improve access to and increase housing  Focus on youth safety  Address bullying  Provide volunteer opportunities for youth  Host youth workshops on – financial literacy, goal setting, culture and empowerment  Offer after-school programs for youth  Make available counselling for addictions, trauma, and inter-generational affects  Support for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Queer (LGBTQ) youth  Involve in decision-making  Provide opportunities for youth to connect with and preserve land

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

4 Discussing Ideas – Roundtable Discussions

Findings from each roundtable discussion and the survey reveal the interests of Elders, Youth and other community members. The following are highlights from each roundtable.

Ashcroft Indian Band Ashcroft Indian Band is the most northern of the eight Participating Bands. Community and culture were common interests of the Elders and youth. The Elders in the community were interested in programs and services that: improve and support their quality of life (e.g., transportation, home support services, firewood); build and promote culture and language (and enables them to get together and share with youth); offer community support circles for Elders; increase access to fishing, hunting and harvesting; and promote environmental protection of drinking water. Elders also would like new homes built that are built to their physical needs (e.g., safety, ramps, walk in showers, handles), rather than retrofitting existing buildings. The group also recommended a “No Electronics Day” to stimulate community connectedness and unity. Ashcroft supports the creation of an Ashcroft Elders’ Council, which they would want to be influential in their community with their advice respected, and operations bound by Conflict of Interest policies. Youth in Ashcroft once had many programs to access in their community that along with the Youth Center was central to their social activities and sense of unity, well-being, health and safety. The closure of the center and termination of many Band youth activities, have left the kids with little to do. Those who have access to transportation utilize facilities in the town of Ashcroft (e.g., community pool, dirt bike track, local soccer club). Some career training youth has been accessed including BladeRunners in Kamloops, computer courses, WorkBC, and high school introduction to trades programs (ACEit). Other events and services used are Friendship Centers and the BC Association of Friendship Centers “Gathering Our Voices” conference. Youth would like to see the resurrection of a youth council and Youth Coordinator8, and the re- opening of the youth center that has exercise equipment, a basketball hoop, and soccer field added, and weekly youth events, and other gatherings and activities to bring the youth and community together, as well as renewal of trips to Kamloops for movies, shopping and sports. Support is needed for youth to access to training, and for young parent’s day or hourly care.

Coldwater Indian Band The Elders discussion focused on health and safety in the home and community for Elders and all community members. Information and knowledge is needed on what is available for Elders (e.g., medical, pension) and other supports, along with flexibility on health programs and services. Healthy, community made, meals for Elders were also recommended.

8 Youth Coordinators should be close in age to youth so the youth can identify with them and see that person as a role model

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Communication and collaboration were common themes. There is a great need to demonstrate the ability to collaborate with other Bands and organizations, and improve communication to Elders of ongoing activities. Youth participants were primarily in their mid-20s. They were unaware of youth programs available in the community or region, resulting in a sense that once they become young adults they are not valued within the community. Few recreational activities in the community are available to them, thus those with transportation utilize facilities in Merritt. Programs Youth would like are: initiatives that support healthy active lifestyles within the community (e.g., training) and facilities that would encourage youth to stay in the community. Suggested facilities were recreation centre, and a multi- unit housing complex. In addition, affordable and accessible day care and after school care is needed for parents – this would enable them to be employed, participate in training (leadership training and mentoring, communication skills, public speaking, financial literacy and accountability). Both Elders and Youth participants support the idea of Councils for their group9, and identified transportation services to/from Merritt.

Boston Bar Indian Band Boston Bar has a small base of current supports for its Elders (e.g., van, outings, long-term care homes in neighboring communities – Lytton and Lillooet, etc.); however, more support is needed for Elders living in their own homes within the community (e.g., firewood, home and appliance maintenance). There is a need for improved communication with greater advance notice so that Elders are more aware of what is available and better able to participate. The current level of support and services has resulted in Elders feeling they are not respected or heard. The suggestions highlight the need to help Elders to:  Be active and able to get out – more activities, transportation suitable for Elders with mobility needs, transportation scheduled with the date they receive cheques;  Be safe and secure in their homes, with home maintenance, cleaning; and  Collaborate with other communities on long-term care and assisted living alternatives accessible for family visits. The Youth group consisted of males all under the age of 14 years. They were all interested in learning language and cultural skills and on creating more opportunities to be active and participate in sports, recreation. They also seemed quite aware of the sense that some in the community were being left out and one expressed the view that he wanted “the whole community working together.” There are few recreational activities in the Band and neighboring communities for youth; thus anytime they want to go indoor swimming or a movie, they have to go to communities such as Hope, Chilliwack or Merritt. Further, the local public school in Lytton offers limited courses; any child wishing to have a broader education is bussed to Ashcroft an hour away.

9 The Scw’exmx Community Health Services Society (SCHSS) provides health support to the Nooaitch, Shackan and Coldwater Bands. It offers counselling services, transportation, and language classes, and coordinates Elders and Youth monthly gatherings.

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Given the small populations in the reserves it will be important to do a correlation to the populations in the neighboring towns.

Cook’s Ferry Indian Band There are limited number of Elder specific programs beyond self-started activities and supports for getting to functions and events. The Elders called for creating comfortable and safe ‘environments’ through knowledge building activities (i.e., at age 65, community gardens, internal reconciliation / problem solving, helping adults care for Elderly family members, etc.), and for relationship building on and off reserve, including collaboration with non-First Nations seniors’ groups and at an inter- generational level (e.g., cultural teachings, technology boot camp taught by youth to Elders). The Elders Council was supported as long as it includes protocol, a purpose beyond just advisory, and provides time for visiting with other Elders in addition to the working agenda. There wasn’t discussion on youth needs.

Nicomen Indian Band Nicomen Band is located about 15 minutes from Lytton where Band members are able to acquire dental and medical services, including hospital. Emergency and after-hours medical services are unreliable, especially when local doctors are away and interim doctors are not available after-hours. A new medical center in Lytton is increasing the services in the area; however, Merritt health practitioners often care for Band members. While tele-health is available in the area, it is considered to be impersonal and culturally inappropriate. Consequently, medical support and trained emergency personnel in Nicomen was recommended through training community members in Emergency First Aid. Other health support requested were:  In-community drug and alcohol counselling;  Elders support - wheel chair access, improved home care (more hours), meals, monthly trips; and  First Responder training. Other community ideas were transportation to Merritt for shopping as shopping local is cost prohibitive to low income households, raised community gardens, and cultural events. Discussion on youth needs identified the need for more recreation and training programs with transportation support. Training programs also need to cover training costs and provide a living allowance. For teenagers after school programs and tutoring should be offered, and to enable parents to participate in employment and training, day care services are needed.

Nooaitch Indian Band As with other Band discussions, Nooaitch identified gaps and interests centered on in-community activities and venues, as well as transportation to Merritt and other community centers for services. More in-community activities requested were:  Family activities - more organized events such as cultural, camping, social activities/activity night (movie night, yoga); CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

 Men and women groups, Elders, children groups (especially activities for children under six years old); and  Community gardens. They also requested better use of existing community buildings, such as the log building, for youth a centre and activities, trades and skills training, and cultural knowledge sessions. Community safety was also raised providing examples of needed fire safety services, and self-defense training for women and children, and stranger danger training for children. While there are no Elders or Youth Councils at Nooaitch Indian Band, there is representation and participation in the SCHSS Elders and Youth activities. Nooaitch believes there is value in having councils for Elders and Youth within their communities.

Shackan Indian Band Shackan Indian Band has the fewest community members of the Participating Bands. It is located approximately 20 km east of Spences Bridge and 40 km west of Merritt on Highway 8. There are few community facilities within the Band other than a community hall, and Band administration is located in downtown Merritt. Shackan’s vision is “to promote the development of a healthy lifestyle and self- sufficiency for Shackan community members.” The majority of on-reserve community members are Elderly people; there are a few children who live with their families. As there is a lack of housing and in-community services, employment and educational opportunities, it is expected that these children will move out of community once they become of age. The few youth and young adults Band members reside off-reserve where employment and services exist. The SCHSS has been providing community Elders with health services and transportation; however, more regular transportation and Elders support are needed. Shackan Youth too receive support from SCHSS.

Siska Indian Band The Elders typically utilize services located off-reserve. Consequently, transportation services are needed to get groceries, entertainment, and health services. In the past, reimbursement for individual travel arrangements to other towns (e.g., Chilliwack and Merritt for dental and other medical appointments) was reimbursed, but changes by the FNHA/IHA (First Nations Health Authority / Interior Health Authority) have resulted in private arrangements ineligible for reimbursement. There are few activities and facilities available for Siska youth. They typically go to Lytton for recreational, facilities and team sports. The types of programs and services wanted were counselling on life skills such as parenting, budgeting, healthy eating and traditional practices with Elders. An Elder/Youth Worker was requested to coordinate activities for these groups. Proposed programs are essential skills training (e.g., literacy, comprehension and math) and other community supports like community gardens, social activities, day care, after school programs. Both the Elders and youth groups discussed the need for a community recreation center, and transportation. There was interest in creating Elders and Youth Councils. CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Urban Sessions Five urban roundtables were hosted – Merritt, Kamloops, Kelowna, Vancouver, and Chilliwack. Each had various attendance levels, with the greatest attendance at the Merritt session, low attendance in three other locations, and no attendance in one. Based on the low number of persons in attendance at the urban sessions, off-reserve member contact lists need to be developed and regular contact with them maintained through updates and urban sessions. As all of the CNA participating Bands have a large portion of their membership residing off-reserve, keeping them informed and engaged is needed for the Bands and CNA to succeed. Like the Band sessions, both Elders and Youth in urban settings long for cultural activities, knowledge and opportunities to participate and gather. People want to have that send of belonging and valued. Regular communication and gatherings can help fulfill those needs. Gatherings with the CNA (or Bands) could be held two times per year in late summer/before school terms start and prior to Christmas (i.e., a Christmas dinner). Meanwhile, just like the Bands’ Elders and Youth, regular events and programs (e.g., bi-weekly, monthly) are wanted on culture, language, traditional foods and plants, outdoor walks like medicinal plant walks, and opportunities that connect youth with Elders and nature. Sessions could also focus on building community amongst different groups like women, Elders, youth, and two-spirited people. Recognition that members, especially Elders (who were part of the 60s Scoop), living outside their Bands may want to return to their home community, but lack of housing and employment opportunities deter this. Elders want assistance with finding employment, information printed and online sources on NIHB (Non-Insured Health Benefits), pension and senior’s services/care, and housing so they can return to their home community. Like many of the other sessions, the Elders discussed issues around transportation to access services and participate in programs, needing information on what is available (e.g., Friendship Centre activities, active living supports such as physio, etc.). They also recommended the creation of a strategy, initiative or fund that supports Elders with planning and preparing for their later years (e.g., income tax, fraud protection, early access to pension, and end of life arrangements). Youth activities should be interactive and educational – ideas included workshops on food safe, certification, money management, cooking, tutoring. Also for Youth, there should be:  Support for Youth to also participate in CNA sponsored and other activities (e.g., Young Entrepreneurs Symposium, December 1-3, a variety of camp situations, mentoring type participation in meetings, paying recreation costs, etc.);  Focus on connections – between in town and community youth, other in town youth activities (e.g., Post-Secondary Student Councils and high school youth group, etc.), Band and Public schools, and between Elders and youth; and  Priority and recognition of in-town youth, young parents and community capacity funding (rather than CNA staffing and administration). Friendship centers could be the hub for re-connecting with members of CNA Participating Bands that are not yet involved with their community.

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

5 Gathering Individual Responses – Surveys

In addition to the roundtable sessions, a survey was conducted to collect comments from people who were unable to attend the roundtables. Persons attending roundtables also completed the survey onsite. It was available online and distributed to by each CNA Participating Band Community Coordinator to their respective Band members; and also distributed by CNA. Bands shared the survey by distributing copies door-to-door, by mail, through email and on social media. The survey questionnaire is included in Appendix B: Survey. From these promotional activities, there was 194 respondents of which 192 fully completed the survey. Of the respondents, 60% were Elders, 23% Youth, and 17% other. The respondents primarily resided in their own community (67%), while nearly 20% lived off-reserve, and 10% resided in another Band. Coldwater Band had the greatest number of respondents at 27% (n=52) with Cook’s Ferry Indian Band members representing 17% (n=33) of respondents. These two Bands also have the highest populations of the CNA Participating Bands.

Figure 8: Share of Survey Respondents by Band

In addition to questions on respondent’s Band citizenship and residency, they were asked to rate the level of importance they placed on 19 different programs and services, and to offer other comments. The CNA Statement of Priorities was used as the foundation for the development of a list of programs and services survey respondents rated for the level of importance or value they held for each. The top eight selections of the combined Elders and Youth responses are illustrated in Figure 9.

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Figure 9: Top Eight Programs and Services

When the responses of Elders and Youth are separated the priorities differ after the top priority – Culture, Heritage and Language. After culture, Elders value Housing, Education programs, Long-term care and Training. For Youth it is Education programs, Sport and recreation, Employment (services, support and counselling), and Outdoor and natural resource programs. Employment support services ranked eleventh overall and tenth for Elders (see Table 4: Top Programs and Services Rank).

Table 4: Top Programs and Services Rank

Overall Elder Youth Program/Service Rank Rank Rank Culture, Heritage & Language 1 1 1 Education Programs 2 3 2 Housing 3 2 6 Sport & recreation 4 7 3 Outdoor & natural resources programs 5 8 5 Social gatherings & Special Events 6 6 8 Long-term care 7 4 13 Transportation 8 11 7 Training 9 5 9 Children/Parenting programs 10 12 10 Employment - services, support, counseling 11 10 4

*Top five programs/services are identified in each group. CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Respondents also offered their opinions on how to support Elders and Youth to be contributing and valued community members, and what they felt was important to each group. For Elders to continue to be active, responsible, and contributing members of the community begins with listening to Elders and respecting the knowledge and wisdom they possess, especially culture, heritage and historic. Focus should be on the internal – spiritual well-being and physical health – of Elders by creating an environment and initiatives where Elders feel heard and valued. Many Elders still retain cultural knowledge and information that can be transferred to others in their community and throughout the Nlaka’pamux – skills such as fish net making, basket wearing, gathering, cooking, and crafts. The knowledge and skills Elders possess offer other community members a means to re-connect and learn their culture. A large number of Elders reside in their own homes in their community, but feel there isn’t sufficient support to enable to them to experience quality independent living. Quality living involves having a regular homemaker, tasty healthy prepared meals delivered, dietician services to promote good eating habits, spa-like services (i.e., toe nail and hair care), community and family visits, firewood, amongst other supports. Types of services and programs they seek are:  Housing maintenance – e.g., firewood and general maintenance and repairs;  Healthy foods – e.g., gourmet meals on wheels delivered to home;  Community gardens – provide places to gather and interact with community members, and grow their own vegetables for healthy foods and food cost savings;  Programmed Elders activities and gatherings – such as yoga (with workout gear provided), fitness program for Elders, Elders facilities next to the recreation centre, dietician, storytelling;  Teaching opportunities – for Elders where they are paid to teach their knowledge and skills to community and especially youth;  Transportation – vehicle for Elders transportation for health, groceries, shopping, and recreational activities;  Contact list of community Elders so they can connect; and  Create an Elders Committee. Several respondents commented that ‘youth are the future’ and recognized youth’s qualities of enthusiasm, knowledge of new technology, and connections with family and friends that Youth. These virtues are of great value to the Participating Bands; however, to persuade Youth to be more involved and share them, communities and leaders must believe in and trust Youth and demonstrate this. This can be done by creating situations where Youth are given opportunities to lead and train, interact and host, and demonstrate their accountability. While this project defined Youth as age 16 to 25 years, in actuality Youth are better defined by other demographics (e.g., life stage – parents/single, education). CNA and Band activities for Youth should be developed for:  Late Teens (15-17 years) – in high school, not participating in high school CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

 Young Adults (18-25 years) – single, employed/unemployed, residency (on or off-reserve), education (high school, post-secondary, trades)  Young Parents – require parental and child supports, housing, childcare (for after school between the time after school and parents are finished work), parent care (workshops, and parent care like time for mom/dad)  Children – emerging youth who are already experiencing situations that could cause them to drop out of school, and/or participate in unhealthy, unproductive life styles (e.g., drugs, alcohol, crime) In order for Youth to realize their potential, they must be encouraged to stay in school, lead healthy drug-free lives, develop their self-esteem, and succeed. Activities and programs directed at them should be fun and interactive, meaningful to their interests (this is not necessarily the same as adults or program coordinators) and delivered by First Nation educators. Supports they need to do this are:  First Nation, especially Nlaka’pamux, role models  Life skills – budgeting, shopping, food prep, healthy living  Gathering Place – such as a fitness center, youth center, gymnasium  Employment Support – job fairs, counselling services  Access to healthy meals  After school interactive programs  Youth Worker who works when Youth are free (e.g., after school, evenings, weekend, summer)  Opportunities to connect with Elders  Parent support services including after school care  Interactive programs – cultural, outdoors, sports, craft making Youth living off-reserve must be included in activities and have programs, support and resources available to them. This may include sponsoring individual tutors. In addition to comments on Elders and Youth, other recommendations were:  Allow CNA funds to be used by Bands for funding proposal writing and leveraging other funds  Develop strategy and activities that end violence against women and children

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

6 Conclusion and Recommendations

The following recommendations are based on the discussions from the roundtables, the survey responses, other dialogues, and secondary research. The accompanying Program Guide further defines the recommendations, activities associated with each and an implementation approach as part of the Elders and Youth Strategy as part of its Social Development priority.

6.1 Strategic Approach The approach to develop initiatives for Elders and Youth of Participating Bands should be consistent with CNA’s mandate, priorities and role(s). The strategies should build capacity within each Participating Band while maintaining modest central CNA operations that: 1) Support efforts already happening in the Participating Bands; 2) Align efforts with other agencies with related initiatives within the territory; 3) Collaborate with neighboring communities to add value and expand reach; 4) Improve/Expand existing programs, services and supports; and 5) Develop new program, services and support options. The literature and other research findings suggest the approach should focus on the principles of: understanding, empowerment, engagement, relationships, integration, wholism, efficiency, effectiveness, flexibility, innovation, coordination, and leadership.

6.2 Key Recommendations Many of the recommendations have application to both Elders and Youth target groups.

 RECOMMENDATION #1: Elders and Youth Advisory Committees Implement the CNA Elders and Youth Advisory committees guided by Terms of Reference. Appoint each group to provide advice on the development and implementation of the remaining recommendations (which will constitute a CNA Elders and Youth Strategy).

 RECOMMENDATION #2: Community Multipurpose Program Strategy Develop a multipurpose program strategy for each community that will increase the use of existing facilities, and outline a phased growth approach for building out from the community social/recreational facility foot prints (e.g., recreation, program delivery, health, etc.).

 RECOMMENDATION #3: Nlaka’pamux Cultural Activities Build on the success of the CNA and community language and cultural programs approach to increase Nlaka’pamux culturally and community-based development activities, programs and supports (e.g., literacy, social activities, community gardens, day care, after school program, counseling, etc.). The

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016 identification of specific actions should be based on the community members’ suggestions which are also prioritized in a feasibility exercise.

 RECOMMENDATION #4: Elder and Youth Knowledge Exchange Support and/or convene joint Elder and Youth engagement opportunities where youth can learn from Elders (e.g., on the land cultural activities), and Elders can learn from youth such as youth led Technology Bootcamps.

 RECOMMENDATION #5: Structured Engagement Network Enhance the CNA communications activities by building out the communications networking activities targeted to all CNA communities and members. This would begin with a focus on providing Elders, Youth, and families with general information on programs, services, supports, and participation opportunities. Activities would also include regular updates on programs and services. Tasks include the development of information materials, outlining of networks and distribution methods, and the development of contact lists and outreach activities.

 RECOMMENDATION #6: Building Capacity and Opportunity Focus on skill building and certified learning within the communities and territory. When training occurs outside the region (i.e., conferences) it should contribute to both building community support capacity or career/employment opportunities (e.g., mental wellness, emergency first aid, etc.).

 RECOMMENDATION #7: Transportation Strategy Engage in a region wide transportation strategy that supports Elders and youth travel. The strategy should align all available transportation options available to CNA Participating Bands and their citizens and define how to coordinate efforts to fill identified gaps in current transportation options.

 RECOMMENDATION #8: Community-Based Elders and Youth Coordinators Fund or cost share an Elders and Youth Coordinator within each Participating Band with an agreed upon set of responsibilities relative to the CNA Elders and Youth Strategy. The position should focus on supporting the target groups at times they need support, rather than operating within typical office hours.

Elders (50+ years)

 RECOMMENDATION #9: Elders Healthy Living Collaborate with service providers to enhance the delivery of programs, services and supports that encourage and prepare Elders for an active healthy life including:  Home improvements, safety and necessities (e.g., ‘gourmet’ meals on wheels, firewood);  Improved quality and flexibility of health programs;  Pursuant to the Recommendation #7, pursue multiple transportation options (e.g., medical and social);  Create and support increased opportunities for Elders to gather and share knowledge; and CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

 Work with other Indigenous and non-Indigenous agencies, organizations, facilities, families and communities to increase access to assisted living arrangements, long-term care alternatives and end of life readiness within the territory.

Youth (16 to 25 years) Ensure that the development of programs, services and supports for youth respect the differing needs and capacities of youth sub-groups. Previously it was mentioned youth there are  Late Teens (15 to 17 years) – preventative programs, role models, career planning, stay in school (e.g., high school), post-secondary training and education  Young Adults (18 to 25 years) – employment and education programs, skills development, transportation, cultural programs, in community recognition  Young Parents (up to 25 years) – parent self-care, young children programs (day or hourly care), transportation, employment and education programs All youth groups too would benefit from cultural programs, and counselling for additions and other mental illnesses. In addition to youth between the ages of 15 to 25 years, initiatives that support early teens (12 to 14 years) as they prepare for adulthood too should be developed.

 RECOMMENDATION #10: Youth Participation Enable youth participation in community, regional and provincial based activities.  Provide opportunities for youth to participate in CNA sponsored and other activities (e.g., Young Entrepreneurs Symposium, Variety of camp situations, Mentoring type participation in meetings, etc.)  Subsidize community-based cultural, recreational and educational / career oriented activities: o Ceremonies, hikes, outdoor adventure, sports equipment and venues (e.g., basketball court, hockey rink) o Youth groups, rooms and centres – led by youth o Access to off reserve recreational opportunities, clubs and facilities o Training opportunities, session costs and living expenses, etc.  Focus on creating meaningful connections between Elders and youth, between community and ‘in-town’ Nlaka’pamux youth, and between Nlaka’pamux and non-Indigenous youth

Urban/Off-Reserve Members

 RECOMMENDATION #11: Urban/Off-Reserve Inclusion Strategy Ensure that a determination is made on how each of the recommendations above can be applied in an ‘off-reserve’ context and off-reserve locations with particular attention on identifying opportunities to improve communications, enable participation and support reconnection and/or return of off- reserve Elder and Youth. CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

 Host semi-annual sessions in key urban centers for off-reserve members. These sessions will provide an opportunity for members to be informed and feel connected to the community, and develop their knowledge and skills on culture, language and history through interactive activities.  Based on the low number of persons in attendance at the urban sessions, off-reserve member contact lists need to be developed and regular contact with them maintained through updates and urban sessions and workshop. As all of the CNA participating Bands have a large portion of their membership residing off-reserve, keeping them informed and engaged is needed for the Bands and CNA to succeed.

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Bibliography

Canada’s most vulnerable: Improving health care for First Nations, Inuit and Métis seniors (2013), Health Council of Canada, Page 26-31. See also Equity, dignity and respect: Creating cultural safety for Aboriginal people in urban health, Health Council of Canada (2012)

City of Merritt & Area: Investment-Ready Community Profile. www.merritt.ca/sites/default/files/merritt_area_-_investment_ready_profile_2014_2.pdf

Community of Ashcroft & Area: Investment-Ready Community Profile. www.ashcroftbc.ca/include/get.php?nodeid=729

Crooks, C., Chiodo, D., Thomas, D., Burns, S., Camillo, C., Engaging and Empowering Aboriginal Youth: A Toolkit for Service Providers, 2nd Edition.

Dixon, Frederick Lyle and Brittany Hazell. A Portrait of Urban Aboriginal Youth in the Waterloo Region and Their Access to Services. Anishnabeg Outreach Inc and Ontario Trillium Foundation.

Economic Empowerment of BC’s Aboriginal Youth: A Research Project of the BCAAFCs ‘Five by Five’ Jobs Strategy. Workshop Summary Report: Merritt Youth Engagement Workshop, Merritt, BC. Conayt Friendship Centre. October 29, 2015.

Economic Empowerment of BC’s Aboriginal Youth: A Research Project of the BCAAFCs ‘Five by Five’ Jobs Strategy. Workshop Summary Report: Kamloops Youth Engagement Workshop, Kamloops, BC. Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Centre. October 28, 2015.

Fraser Salish Regional Health and Wellness Plan. July, 2014. http://www.fnha.ca/Documents/FNHA- Fraser-Salish-Regional-Health-and-Wellness-Plan.pdf

Interior Region First Nations Health Authority: Caucus Update, November 2015.

Interior Region First Nations Health Authority: Strategic Directions. Interior Region Nation Executive, Fall 2015.

National Aboriginal Health Organization (NAHO) from Marriott Mable (2001) cited in Archibald, Linda (2006) Final Report of the Aboriginal Healing Foundation: Promising Health Practices in Aboriginal Communities, Volume III.

Village of Lytton: Investment-Ready Community Profile. www.lytton.ca/sites/lytton.civicwebcms.com/files/media/Lytton%20- %20Investment%20Ready%20Profile%20%28web%29.pdf

Ways Tried and True: Aboriginal Methodological Framework for the Canadian Best Practices Initiative April 2015.

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Appendices

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Appendix A: List of Community Coordinators

Ashcroft Indian Band – Charlene Pittman Boston Bar Indian Band – Pamela Robertson Coldwater Indian Band – Sharon Collins, Shawn Bob Cook’s Ferry Indian Band – Pearl Hewitt, Christine Minnabarriet Nicomen Indian Band – Rolene Edwards, Desiree Good Nooaitch Indian Band – Kathie Jumbo Shackan Indian Band – Jessica Dan Siska Indian Band – Alice Munroe Scw'exmx Community Health Services – Tamara George, Lucy Henry

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Appendix B: Survey Questionnaire

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Appendix C: Survey Results

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

Q.4. Programs and Services - Other 1) Housing a) Access b) Renovation by band members c) Home support 2) Anchor Initiatives a) Community gardens – green houses, healthy diets 3) Linkages & Leveraging a) Neighbor communities b) Annual conferences – GOV YES 4) Community Development Goals a) Addressing poverty b) Healthier / Kinder attitudes 5) Capacity Building a) Personal b) Culturally based c) Professional

Q.5. What do you feel could be done to ensure that Youth finish their education, and are able to be active, responsible and contributing members of the community? 1) Involvement a) Promote involvement of parents with kids i) Develop parenting skills ii) Educate parents b) Elders participation i) In school meetings ii) (Cranbrook Mt Baker Elders In Residence program) c) Band involvement 2) Values, Principles a) Trust b) Respect (give & receive respect) c) Encouragement d) Teach traditional ways, including history (e.g., IRS) e) Listen to youth, involve youth 3) Other a) Foster & promote the value of education and post-secondary i) Throughout a child’s years ii) Emphasis on K-3 CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

4) Recreational activities a) Gatherings i) Interactive with Elders b) Culture c) Walking group d) Summer / holiday camps e) Technology free days f) Tournaments, arts & crafts, dance, reading / science 5) Skills / Knowledge - develop a) Note taking b) (studying skills) c) Governance training 6) Services / Programs a) Daily support i) Healthy breakfasts ii) Role models, mentors iii) Study support (1) Homework clubs (2) Peer support – youth student groups (3) Tutors – target study areas – e.g., math, science (a) Funded/cost covered (4) Available 330-730pm iv) One-to-one b) Employment and Education i) Job fairs c) Post-secondary tours – TRU, colleges, universities d) Support Services i) Role of Education Coordinator, Education Councilor, Youth Worker (1) Home visits (2) Qualified, fun, interesting, available, caring (3) Career counselling (4) Assessments 7) Funding for: a) Living expenses b) Supplies, school trips c) Daycare d) Honoraria, bursary e) Monthly incentives CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

f) Rewards – to be earned i) Attending school ii) Finishing school

Q.7. What do Youth know, do, and value by the time they leave school in order to ensure they are responsible, active and contributing citizens? 1) Youth rely on band for employment 2) Principles & Values a) Trust b) Culture c) Respect d) Self-esteem, self-worth, self-awareness, self-motivation e) Love f) Care g) Help h) Responsibility i) Support j) Family & parents k) community 3) Youth personally value a) Friends b) Adventure c) Fun d) Technology, playing games 4) Life Skills a) SIN # b) Drivers license c) Budgeting d) Cooking e) Time management f) Social skills g) Health h) Anti-bullying i) Career path j) Goal setting 5) Other Ideas a) Elders Big Brother program for youth CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

b) Wellness Team – Beyond the Hurt for Gr 7 & 8 – teaches healthy relationships, anti-bullying, discrimination

Q.6. What do you feel could be done to ensure that Elders are able to continue to be active, responsible and contributing members of the community? 1) Enhance current programs and supports 2) Provide enabling funding a) Active wear b) Events c) Foods, etc 3) Make engaging with Elders a norm a) Welcoming space at CAN 4) Enable Networking a) Youth/elder mentoring b) Events/gathering c) Cultural activities d) Contact lists 5) Develop/Build Enabling Infrastructure a) Elders center b) Connected to rec center c) Transportation d) Council

Q.8. What do Elders know, do, and value in order to ensure they are active, feel valued and feel comfortable with their quality of life, or provide for an improved quality of life? 1) Teach self-care, wellness as early as possible 2) Be as healthy as possible 3) Ability to contribute and feel heard 4) Feel secure and safe at home 5) Participate in and benefit from community and region (off-reserve)

Q.9. Other Comments and Ideas 1) Community Environment a) End violence b) End bullying c) Mental health d) Women and children e) Chief and Council work together f) Self-sustaining communities CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016

2) Programs & Services a) End of Life - Funeral, coffins, counselling, grief support b) Housing i) Elders – need home maintenance, support to enable them to live in their homes ii) Youth – need housing c) Recreational activities i) Youth activities – dirt bike, hockey, volleyball, (basketball), monthly events 3) Off-reserve – Most live off reserve, - need programs and support for off-reserve members 4) CNA & Post-Roundtables a) Roundtable follow-up meetings with checklist/report on activities completed b) Spend CNA trust interest $$ only c) Provide rides to events d) Whether kids should attend meetings 5) Other a) Pay Elders & Youth to learn and teach b) 25-50 year olds should be more independent from Bands

CNA Elders and Youth Roundtables Findings Report 2016