Table of Contents 3

Mission Statement 4

Dene Law 5

Message from the Chiefs 6

Message from the Chief Executive Officer 7

Yellowknives First Nation Councilors – Current 8

Yellowknives Dene First Nation Councillors – 2011 – 2015 9

Department Reports: Wellness Division 10

Land & Environment 23

Aboriginal Head Start 30

YKDFN Housing Division 32

Administration - Human Resources 35 - YKDFN Organizational Chart 38 - Finance – IBA Funds 2014/2015 39

Det’on Cho Corporation 40

Acknowledgement 43

Mission Statement

FIRST NATION MISSION To assert our Weledeh Dene Rights, as long as the sun rises, the rivers flow, and the grass grows

FIRST NATION VISION Our vision is to be a Healthy and Sovereign Weledeh Dene Nation with Excellent Governance

VALUE STATEMENTS

We the YKDFN Chiefs and Council are guided by the following values:  Weledeh Culture – we practice and promote our traditions, culture, language and spirituality  Integrity – we are caring, respectful and honorable to all people  Well-being – we live a healthy, balanced life that relies on nature  Accountability – we are accountable and transparent to our people

First Nation Summary (can be used as background information for proposals)

The Yellowknives Dene First Nation (YKDFN) is part of the Territory Government. It is one of five main Dene groups that live in the NWT and is governed by a Chief and Council which has offices in and Ndilo. Overall, the YKDFN Chiefs and Council affirm our sacred obligation to serve our people and our commitment to live balanced contemporary lifestyles with culture and traditions important to our community, to speak our traditional language, and protect our natural resources and treaty rights. For Chiefs and Council to lead the YKDFN to a prosperous future requires the support of our members. We will work cooperatively and in partnership with all members, YKDFN administration and legal entities to achieve our proposed outcomes to improve the well-being of all our members.

Message from the Chief(s)

On behalf of Council, we are proud to share the key initiatives and accomplishments of the 2014-2015 YKDFN fiscal year. We encourage you to read through this year’s Annual Report, it outlines all the work Council and our dedicated staff have undertaken to ensure we remain healthy, vibrant and sustainable communities.

The election of YKDFN Dettah Chief and Dettah and Ndilo Councilors was held in the beginning of 2015-2016 fiscal years. Dettah Councilors: Gordie Liske and Randy Baillargeon replaced Alfred Baillargeon and Peter D. Sangris. Ndilo Councilors: Lena Black and Chief Edward Sangris Catherine Lafferty replaced Roy Erasmus Sr. and Cecilie Beaulieu. We would like to acknowledge the hard work, dedication and commitment that the former councilors have conducted within the last 4 years.

In the current fiscal year the YKDFN will complete our Election Code and Membership Code. Completing the Election Code and Membership Code will help assure that YKDFN is completing its governance structure.

Akaitcho Process Negotiations: The Akaitcho Process Negotiations is 95% completed. Although in many cases the last few steps are always challenging, such as Land Quantum and Taxation. Chief Ernest Betsina Devolution: The question of Devolution still lingers for Akaitcho. That is an important decision that Akaitcho will have to undertake prior to March 31, 2016 Deadline.

Community Infrastructure: YKDFN is negotiating with GNWT on the priorities of Community Infrastructure for the communities of Dettah and Ndilo.

To date, we are pleased with the progress and accomplishments of Yellowknives Dene First Nation and we will continue to work with the CEO, Council, Program Managers and Staff to do whatever is necessary in carrying out Yellowknives mission statement and values in order to reach Yellowknives goals and objectives.

______Chief Edward Sangris - Dettah Chief Ernest Betsina – Ndilo

Michael Cheeks Chief Executive Officer Message from the Chief Executive Officer

I am pleased with the Yellowknives Dene First Nation’s accomplishments over the past fiscal year, 2014-2015. The Yellowknives Dene First Nation (YKDFN) Administration and Departments have undertaken a number of important projects and initiatives that have undeniably benefited the membership. Success is owed to the drive and commitment of all of our Department Managers and staff, and the active participation of the Yellowknives Dene members.

The YKDFN is fortunate to have a strong and talented team of dedicated service providers and partners. I want to personally thank all of the management and staff for their time, dedication and I also want to thank Chief and Council for their direction and adherence to good governance best practices.

Opportunities are abundant in Chief Drygeese Territory, and the Administration will continue to champion the initiatives that support the will of membership.

We will endeavor to promote and implement the Yellowknives Dene First Nation Readiness Plans and strategies throughout the Chief Drygeese Territory for the current and future generations. Chief Drygeese Territory has the potential to be a vibrant economy, with an abundance of natural resources, and an indefatigable spirit.

This annual report provides highlights of our 2014-15 achievements and lays out the goals for the coming years.

Working together ensures the future prosperity of our region, and the health and wellbeing of all citizens. We believe in building strong relationships and supporting cooperative partnerships.

Current Chief and Councillors 2015 Chiefs

Edward Sangris Ernest Betsina Councillors

Jonas Sangris Bobby Drygeese Napoleon Mackenzie Philip Liske

Mary Rose Sundberg Randy Baillargeon Lena Black Catherine Lafferty

Gordie Liske Paul Betsina

Wellness Division

Afterschool Program The Chekoa Afterschool Program was delivered in Ndilo and Dettah from April to June and September to March. The program runs from 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. The program provides a supportive, safe place for children and youth to go after school and engage in various educational and wellness oriented activities.

Gym Program Margaret Erasmus The community wellness gym program runs seven days a week and Director has scheduled sports and activities. Our programmers carry out Community Wellness activities such as fitness/circuit training, volleyball and soccer. The adult participation has grown substantially this year.

Family Night Family nights were delivered in April, October, November, December, January and February. Each event had a different theme with activities for the families to participate in. For example, one activity was to let the parents recognize that communication between the parent/child is significant and it needs to happen more than you think. Family nights were held in both Dettah and Ndilo with supper included.

Spring Carnival A spring carnival was hosted in Ndilo and Dettah during the first weekend of April. The carnival consisted of a talent show, children’s events, youth events, adult events, a community barbeque and drum dance. Everyone was welcome to attend.

Photo Credit Wellness Division Photo Credit Melissa Mackenzie

Clara Hughes Big Ride Presentation As part of Clara’s Big Ride, the six time Olympic medalist pedaled across Canada and stopped in 95 communities in 110 days going the distance for mental health to help end the stigma surrounding mental illness. On May 5th, Clara came to the Chief Drygeese Government building in Dettah. The leaders welcomed Clara into our community and Clara made a presentation in promoting mental health and healthy active living. Elders, youth, children, families and community members came out to the event. The children from the Afterschool Program decorated and they did an awesome job. Caribou stew was served and the event ended with a drum dance.

Mother Day May 10, 2015 Father Day June 21, 2015 Photo Credit Wellness Division Photo Credit Wellness Division

Mother’s Day and Father’s Day Celebrations On May 13 we hosted a Mother’s Day barbeque at the Weledeh site. The fathers and the men did the cooking. The food was delicious. Father’s Day celebrations were held on June 13th at the Weledeh site with the mothers and women doing the cooking. Again the food was delicious!

Career Fair Wellness staff assisted the Career Fair Committee in delivering the Career Fair on May 15th. They picked up information as resources for clients on employment, career development and other resources that are available. Staffs were also stationed at the main table in charge of prizes and attendance.

National Aboriginal Day June 21, 2015 Photo Credit Wellness Division

National Aboriginal Day Celebration Many people from all ages (, Metis, and non-Dene) came out to celebrate National Aboriginal Day on June 21st at the Weledeh Site. Various traditional cultural activities took place followed by a drum dance.

Summer Culture Camp Our Community Wellness Program delivered an on the land camp at our Weledeh site from August 17-23, 2014. The purpose of the camp was to teach our youth traditional skills, physical activities and learning about our Wiilideh history. The camp accommodated youth ages 11-6 staying overnight at the camp, however, the camp was open to families for the day. There was also a Dene Games competition during the camp.

Photo Credit: Nora Taylor Summer Programs Community Wellness provided scheduled activities during the afternoon for children and youth age 10 and up. Every day they were engaged with various outings and activities in the communities. During the evening the gyms were open with various sports played. Baseball was very popular in both communities – there was a team entered into the recreation slow pitch league.

Community Beautification During the summer 4 summer students were hired to implement the beautification workplan to beautify Ndilo and Dettah. The students learned construction skills.

Volunteer Appreciation Community Wellness hosted a volunteer appreciation dinner in April. The volunteers were invited to dinner and were presented with a gift. A second volunteer recognition event was held in February in conjunction with a Family Night supper. Volunteers received YKDFN Wellness Hoodies in appreciation for their help.

Photo Credit: Rachel Crapeau Photo Credit: Rachel Crapeau

Christmas Program A Christmas Program was held in Dettah and Ndilo for children and youth of all ages. There were also specific activities for adults. Activities included arts and crafts, outside activities, Dene Games Competition, Handgames Tournament, New Year’s Eve Celebration for kids, movie day and family sports day.

Young Men’s Hunting Culture Camp Young men from the community travelled past Lutsel K’e by skidoo to hunt for caribou during the Christmas break. They learned how to navigate the land in winter, hunting skills and how to skin and butcher caribou. Meat was shared with community Elders and wellness programs.

Elder Support and Home Visits Family Wellness has been actively working with the Elders, taking them out shopping and driving them to their doctor’s appointments. The Family Wellness Programmer visited with Elders to see how they are doing and answered questions they have about programs.

Elder Fuel Subsidy The Family Wellness Programmer assisted Elders with their application for the fuel subsidy program with GNWT/ECE, to ensure that the forms reach ECE and that the Elders receive their oil in a timely matter due to the onset of winter coming. The Family Programmer was in constant correspondence with GNWT/ECE to ensure that all applications were received and processed.

Photo Credit: Wellness Division Photo Credit: Wellness Division

Elders Lunch The Family Wellness Programmer organized luncheons for the Elders every other Sunday during the month of April in Dettah. From September to March, Elder’s luncheons were held monthly, in both Dettah and Ndilo. If for some reason Elders could not make it to the luncheon, Wellness staff delivered the luncheons to the Elders.

Elder Abuse There have been cases in the community regarding Elder Abuse. Programmer met with the Elders and the person that reported the abuse to Family Wellness. There have been referrals to Alison McaTeer House in and have made provision for the Elders to ensure their safety. Other related activities included: arranging to change the Elder’s cell phone number; taking the Elder shopping at St. Pat’s Flea market where St. Pat’s donated several items of clothing, and helping the Elder to have her post office box number changed.

Elders in Motion Supplies were purchased to implement the Elder’s in Motion Program. For the month of May and June the programmer delivered Elders in Motion sessions in Dettah and Ndilo – this was a very popular program with numerous Elders attending.

Elders’ Gathering / Elders’ Senate Presentations on Elder Abuse On April 2nd, Elders gathered with the NWT Senior Society and Sgt. Greg Towler, the RCMP Family Wellness Coordinator and had lunch together at the Dettah Wellness office. After the luncheon, Barb Hood from the Senior Society facilitated a discussion on the different types of Elder abuse. Sgt. Greg Towler, RCMP Family Violence Coordinator did a presentation on financial abuse, family violence awareness and setting up a safety net for the Elders. The Elders talked about what they have seen in the communities, and expressed their concerns and issues. A similar presentation was made to the Elders’ Senate.

The Elders expressed their concerns on addictions issues, community safety, family violence, alcohol/drug abuse, and criminal activities. They want the RCMP patrolling frequently in the communities. The Counsellor spoke on the concerns and issues that the Elders’ expressed and that the Community Wellness Division staff are providing different programs and services relating to the issues and that we need the leadership, Elders, youth and families to work with us, support each other and work towards building healthy communities and preserving our Dene culture.

Taka’a Group The Family Wellness Programmer implemented the program in Ndilo for girls ages 6-10. There is a literacy component and a cultural component with arts and crafts.

Photo Credit: Wellness Division Photo Credit: Wellness Division

Ndilo Garden / Dettah Garden The Family Wellness Programmer worked with Doug Ritchie and Lone Sorenson regarding planting the community garden in Ndilo and the future garden in Dettah. The garden in Dettah was built and soil has been put in the boxes ready for planting next summer.

Fall Harvest Fair The Family Wellness Programmer assisted with the Fair. She provided the traditional food contribution, organized facilities, arranged Dene drummers for the drum dance and advertised the Fair in the community.

RCMP Visit On Thursday June 12, 2014 the Wellness Division hosted an Information Session for parents. We had RCMP Officer Sgt Greg Towler come out to answer any questions or concerns that parents may have in our communities.

Photo Credit: Wellness Division Photo Credit: Wellness Division

Saka?a Summer Program The Saka?a summer camp went very well. There were five staff hired, two community members from each community and a supervisor for the summer camp program. An Elder was hired to work with the children at culture camp demonstrating how to scrape a moose hide.

The children from both Ndilo and Dettah participated in the community garden in Ndilo. The children learned how to grow vegetables and how to harvest the vegetables from the garden. Weekly the children took part in keeping the garden free from weeds and also had the opportunity to water the garden. After several weeks of caring for the garden, the children had the opportunity to reap their rewards by experiencing fresh vegetables from the garden. They discussed the different taste of fresh garden vegetables to store bought.

The children that attended the Saka?a Summer Camp participated in community outings in Yellowknife throughout the summer: the beach, the fire hall, the horse stables, the library and the museum. Regular program activities included arts and crafts, painting, playing at the park, and active games.

Photo Credit: Wellness Division

Mama and Bebia Sessions Mama and Bebia sessions were held regularly in the healing room of the Community Wellness building. The program is very popular with young mothers, both those coming in to the Vital Abel Boarding Home from out of town and local mothers. At the beginning of the project, sessions were held once every two weeks, but with increased popularity and demand, the sessions were held weekly beginning in January.

During a session the clients are welcomed and shown the facility. Once the group is settled, the participants introduce themselves; where they are from, due date or age of child and how many children they may have.

Every session has a different topic ranging from labour and delivery to healthy foods for mom and baby and importance of breastfeeding. Following are some session topics:  Labour and Delivery  Sharing birth stories  Early Childhood brain development  Importance of talking, singing and loving your baby  Sugars in baby formula  Importance and benefits of Breast Feeding  Nutrition during Pregnancy  Role of a Doula during Pregnancy  The Dangers of Drugs and Alcohol use while Pregnant or Breastfeeding

Participants also take part in crafts such as making baby books. There are snacks and beverages provided at the sessions and if possible, the mothers help participate in cooking a healthy meal with enough to take home afterwards. The sessions are scheduled from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. but can last until 6:30 p.m. depending on the activity and the number of participants. The mothers enjoy each other’s company and like to socialize with each other. After sessions are done, a door prize is given out. The clients are then able to receive their baby bag.

Program Expansion Due to the popularity of the program, we have moved the program to a larger space (next door in the Yellowknives Dene Learning Centre building), where there is more space for the young moms to bring their older preschoolers as well as their babies.

Healthy Cooking Participants take part in healthy cooking activities, including menu planning, an exercise in shopping on a budget, learning new, healthy recipes, and cooking the new recipes,

Exercise As part of promoting a healthy lifestyle, we have created a new daily fitness hour for our mothers, which include a treadmill, elliptical machine, stationary bike and work out DVD’s. Equipment and fitness support are offered every day from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Baby Bags All participants receive their baby bag once they are close to their due date or shortly after the baby is born. Some mothers prefer to have their baby bags after the baby is born as they do not know the sex of the baby or because of the cultural tradition to not buy or receive any baby items until after the child is born.

Items included for baby: Healthy Families diaper bags, pampers, wipes, thermometer, zinc cream, one outfit, socks, hat, receiving blanket, fleece baby blanket, body wash, shampoo, lotion, teething toy, and baby books.

Self-care items for mother: Shampoo, Conditioner, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, breast pump, nursing pads and books on labour, delivery, breastfeeding and other pertinent topics.

Photo Credit: Jennifer Drygeese Traditional Sewing Participants are taught to sew traditional baby items such as baby moccasins, baby strap and baby bag. They start the project at the program and then take it home to finish the sewing. This has been a very popular aspect of the program. Many young moms have expressed that they do not know how to sew, or may only have limited sewing skills, and are unable to independently sew items for their baby. The mothers stay late in the program, and some come in for extra help during the week to finish the items they are working on.

Traditional Teachings Elders come in to the program and talk about traditional values around parenting, and traditional ways regarding the birthing process, including prenatal and postnatal care.

Matrix Outpatient Program The Matrix Outpatient Treatment Program offered education on addictions and its effects, the recovery process, relapse prevention and setting up support systems. The components of the program are:  Stop the Cycle  Identifying External Triggers  Identifying Internal Triggers  Motivation for Recovery  Work and Recovery  Early Recovery Problems  Truthfulness  Dangerous Emotions  Compulsive Behavior  Total Abstinence  Relapse Prevention  Taking Care of Yourself

The Dene Wellness Programmer delivered the Outpatient Treatment Program at the Ndilo Wellness office in May and June; and at the Dettah Wellness office in December and January. The program consisted of presentations, work assignments, group discussions, sharing, and information handouts. Snacks are provided.

Women’s Sharing Circle / Women’s Retreat The Dene Wellness Programmer delivered Sharing Circles in May and June at the Dettah Wellness office, and in November and December in Ndilo. Feedback from the women included requests for day-long retreats on the land. A Women’s Retreat was held in March, focusing on the Elder’s teachings of our Dene culture, traditional roles of women, developing trust, building self-esteem and confidence, committing to a self-care plan and energizing through cultural and wellness activities. More on the land retreats are being planned for spring and summer.

Photo Credit: Wellness Division Photo Credit: Wellness Division

Acupuncture Information Session and Community Acupuncture Clinics An acupuncture information session night was held in April at the Yellowknives Dene Community Learning Center in Ndilo and at the Wellness Building in Dettah. The participants became more aware of natural health options and acupuncture. Many participants tried the free acupuncture treatments for physical pain in their body, muscle aches, energy alignment, help with sleeping, and quitting smoking and other addictions.

Following these first sessions, community members requested that the clinics be ongoing. Several clinics were held once monthly in both Dettah and Ndilo throughout the winter months, to assist with reducing cravings for tobacco and other addictions, as well as other wellness treatments.

Indian Residential School Personal Credits Information Session The Dene Wellness Programmer coordinated an information session on Indian Residential School Personal Credits. Shannon Payne, AFN IRS Personal Credits Liaison delivered a presentation on the Education Credits for Residential school survivors and was available for questions.

Indian Residential School Personal Credits and Redemption Forms Assistance From June to October, people from Yellowknife, Dettah and Ndilo required assistance in filling out Indian Residential School Personal Credits forms and getting replacement forms that could not be photocopied or obtained without each individual contacting Crawford Agencies because each person had their own individual bar codes on their forms. A second part of the process involved each residential school survivor completing a second form – IRS Redemption Forms, from October to March. The whole process was very time consuming as it was overly complicated, and each client needed to be walked through the process, twice, meeting deadlines that were not well advertised by the government.

Residential School Personal Credits Programs – Education and Culture Program The Wellness Division created an Education and Culture Program for recipients of Indian Residential School Personal Credits. Activities are aimed to address the negative impacts and effects of Indian Residential Schools including the intergenerational impacts. Major projects include financial literacy, computer and technology as well as on the land culture and traditional knowledge. Parts of the program are run in conjunction with the Yellowknives Dene Community Learning Centre.

Photo Credit: Nora Taylor

On the Land Healing Camps (Fall, Winter (Men’s), Couples Retreat, Spring (Family) The Fall Camp ran Sept 4-7/14 just outside of Dettah. The healing component consisted of:  Feed the fire and giving thanks  Sharing circles around the fire  Dene culture  Understanding the hurt  Healing the wounds  Healthy relationships

Two Elders delivered the cultural components:  Storytelling  Traditional sewing  Harvesting traditional plants for medicine  Seeking peace on nature walk  Traditional teaching  Sacred Dene laws  Traditional roles of men and women

Men’s Camp A 5-day on the land program for men targeting substance abuse and tobacco abuse was held in November. A balance of physical, emotional, mental and spiritual quadrants of wellness was implemented. Topics included: understanding the past, how pain shows up, depression and suicide, stages of recovery and relapse, tobacco misuse and benefits of quitting smoking, healthy relationships and creating a self-care plan. The men also took part in traditional on the land activities. For some of the participants, this was their first time learning about survival skills on the land.

Couples Retreat From February 27 – March 1, a Couples Retreat was held at Trappers Lake Lodge. Music was used to aid with emotional release in between sessions with a Psychologist and counsellor facilitating the workshop. Outdoor activities included snowshoeing and hiking. Topics covered included Safety, Respect, Commitment, Connection, Communication, Boundaries and Conflict Resolution. Participants participated in a drum circle and there was a noticeable shift in energy and mood. All participants were positive about the workshop and their expectations were met.

Photo Credit: Wellness Division

Family Camp A Family Camp was held during the March Break (March 14-20) so that students could attend with their parents. There was a combination of on-the-land cultural activities such as snowshoeing, making dryfish, drymeat, setting traps and snares, checking the nets for fish and healing sessions with two co-facilitators.

Topics included: family tree, healthy family / non-healthy family, healthy self-esteem, communications and how it works, traditional values, stress, energy release, family roles and conflict resolution. This camp balanced the needs of the family, and individuals in the family. The youth really enjoyed checking the nets, cleaning fish and trapping muskrats. Some of them had never trapped muskrats before, so were quite happy to have the experience.

Wiiliideh Language Camp In preparation for the On-the-land camp in March, a language teaching and learning workshop was held, so that more language could be used at the family camp. Dr. Peter Jacobs from the University of Victoria led this workshop on Master/Apprentice style language learning, maintenance and preservation. Everyone participated in different activities that they could use at home or with Elders and other speakers to continue their language learning.

Grief and Loss Workshop A Grief and Loss Workshop was held February 6 – 8. Elder Charlie Neyelle facilitated with the assistance of two counsellors from the Wellness Division. There have been a lot of losses in our communities this year, some tragic, involving young people and also loss of Elders. Community members requested a grief and loss workshop to help deal with their grief, as some were finding it overwhelming.

The workshop presentations were on stages of grieving: Denial, Anger, Depression, Bargaining, and finally Acceptance; Dealing with pain and hurts in negative way of life- alcoholism, addictions, violence; guilt, anger, shame, denial, Recovery - Learn how to help yourself, and Spiritual Reflection.

Men’s Gathering A Men’s Gathering was held in Dettah focusing on addictions and recovery, exercises, eating healthy, participating in wellness activities and making healthy lifestyle choices. The participants brainstormed on ideas for men’s programs and activities in the communities and also on the land cultural programs.

Stress Management Workshop for Women

The Stress Management workshop was for participants to learn about their stressors and symptoms, stress reduction techniques and to develop a stress management plan.

Community Justice Committee Re-established The YKDFN Community Justice Committee has not been active for some time and appointments lapsed in previous years. In order to start up the Justice Committee again, appointments were required by Chiefs and Council and the Minister of Justice. Advertising for Community Justice members was conducted and criminal records checks were processed for interested members before appointments were made.

Justice Committee meetings were held regularly in January, February and March with informal training sessions. Information was presented on the Criminal Code and Restorative Justice, and how Restorative Justice Committees work. Lydia Bardack from John Howard Society explained how the Yellowknife Justice Committee works and presented further information on Restorative Justice.

The Justice Coordinator made a presentation on different aspects of trauma, from the viewpoint of the victim and the perpetrator, as well as possible scenarios the Committee may encounter. The Wellness Addictions Counsellor discussed the effects of alcohol and drug addictions on criminal activities and possible steps to include in the restorative justice process. The Justice Coordinator led team building exercises and an Elder talked about the importance of youth empowerment and ideas for implementing programming in this area.

Photo Credit: Nora Taylor

Community Restorative Justice Hearings The committee has been preparing to hold restorative justice hearings on minor offenses. People charged on cases that come before the committee will not end up with criminal records. They will, instead, abide by the conditions set down by the committee, be it community hours, apologizing to the victim or other retributions.

Monthly Crime Reports The Justice Coordinator reviewed monthly crime reports along with the Dene Wellness Addictions Counsellor. The reports were also reviewed with GNWT Community Justice Staff on the trends.

Support Services and Counselling The Justice Coordinator and Counsellor worked with some of the clients on developing plans for positive change in their lives. A support service was provided to victims, such as attending court, providing counselling, and referring to other appropriate services.

The Justice Coordinator has established a relationship with staff at the Yellowknife Correctional Institute and has started attending regularly at YCI to provide counselling and assistance to YKDFN members who are incarcerated or in remand and would like to make change in their lives.

Community Legal Aid Clinics

A partnership was developed between YKDFN Wellness, Aurora College Yellowknives Community Learning Centre and Jeannette Savoie, Legal Aid lawyer, whereby community clinics were held in Dettah and Ndilo to provide community member’s access to a lawyer and legal information. This was very well received and community members have requested that this be continued.

Community Legal Aid Clinics were held in Dettah on December 3 and March 11, and in Ndilo on November 20 and March 13. A total of 16 clients were assisted with a variety of legal issues.

Restorative Justice Week Community events held during Restorative Justice Week included a luncheon between Elders and Youth with presentations by Elders on traditional teachings and healthy lifestyle choices, and information booths were set up in the community.

Justice Liaison The Justice Coordinator met and liaised with Victim Services, Status of Women, the Wellness Court Officer, A New Day program staff, RCMP Aboriginal Liaison Officer and Tree of Peace addictions staff. The Justice Coordinator attended the NWT Justice Conference and had further opportunities to network and liaise with other coordinators from across the NWT and local justice service providers, as well as receive further training on community restorative justice.

Court Support One area that required a lot of attention this year was supporting members in serious court cases, both those charged with the crimes and their families, and victims of the crimes. Different staff members have taken on the roles of attending court hearings.

The Wellness Counsellor has been in contact on an ongoing basis with the Executive Director, John Howard Society screening for members on the court dockets and those in need of support. The Crown Prosecutor’s office has also been working closely with the Wellness Division ensuring support for witnesses and others having to attend court.

One case was very time consuming as it required a lot of para-legal work after some preliminary assistance by a lawyer. It was a situation where an Emergency Protection Order (EPO) was granted to a non-home owner, non-First Nations member on First Nations land, and the home owner was a First Nations member with legal authority (Band Council Resolution) to reside on the land. Unfortunately, Legal Aid cannot provide legal representation at EPO hearings, and so Coordinator and Director both attended and assisted the YKDFN member in her case to have the EPO relinquished, so that she could move back into her home. The member was successful.

Two clients that attended counselling with our Counsellor and were referred to a treatment program prior to their court dates, had their charges dropped after they attended treatment and followed through with their self-care plans.

Assisting Probation Services / Community Services Hours The Wellness Division has been working with Probation Services in ensuring that clients are informed of their appointments, and encouraging them to attend their appointments. As well, community service hours have been supervised for both youth and adults.

Land & Environment

Overview 2014/15 saw many changes to the Land & Environment (L&E) Department such as some new staff and improved programs. We are in the middle of change and it’s a positive thing.

YKDFN’s Strategic Planning process has identified areas in need of improvement within the L&E department. There still remains some work to be done regarding departmental internal process/policy development initiatives that will lead to a more transparent and high quality program delivery model. However, as program goals become formalized and widely accepted, those changes should come easily. This planning process Johanne Black also helped direct development of L&E’s mission and vision statements Acting Director which are being implemented through program delivery.

Lands Management Most, if not all programs within the L&E department is revenue generated thru contractual arrangements with various funding parties. The purpose of the contracts is to deliver programs and services such as TK, archeology and on-the-land programs, Aboriginal Aquatic Monitoring program, Giant Mine Advisory Committee, and the Community Based Monitoring program. The contract implementation requires fiscal responsibility and is based on funding received and compliance reporting submitted to the funding agencies.

L&E has identified some areas for future improvement and is working to strengthen program delivery in 2015/2016. The L&E programs/projects are further summarized below. The L&E staff hopes you find it informative and help you gain insight into the operations of the Yellowknives Dene First Nations Land & Environment Department.

Mission The mission of the Department of Land & Environment is to protect and promote stewardship of the land, environment, and resources, in the Chief Drygeese Territory, by asserting YKDFN rights and pursuing sustainable economic benefit for current and future members to preserve a traditional way of life.

Vision The Land & Environment Department will work cooperatively with government and industry, drawing on scientific and Traditional Knowledge, to balance environmental preservation with economic development. Decisions will be guided by principles of sustainability and ensuring safe access to land and natural resources for our members.

Highlights  Signing of Impact Benefit Agreement for DeBeers’ Gahcho Kue Mine, February, 2014  Gahcho Kue Traditional Knowledge Study, August 2014.  Signing of the Giant Mine Environmental Agreement, May 2015.  Giant Mine Healing the Land Ceremony & Giant Mine Environmental Agreement Signing Ceremony, June 21, 2015.  Participated in the Giant Mine Surface Design Engagement Strategy for Surface Components, May 2015 - March 2016. Successes

Aboriginal Aquatic Monitoring Program (AAMP) AAMP is a regional program run under the Akaitcho Territory Government, funded by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. AAMP has the mandate to satisfy Canada’s duty to consult and accommodate those

First nations without a Land Claim/Settlement Agreement on matters relating to fisheries and water management. Each year, AAMP applies on behalf of each Akaitcho First Nation for funding various aquatics related programs. Data is collected on a wide variety of parameters surrounding fish, water, and soil. The program provides training and employment to YDKFN members as Technicians and Boat Operators who conduct the sampling under the guidance of DFO biologists.

Community Curator In the fall of 2015, the Prince of Whales Northern Heritage Museum will open an exhibit centered on YKDFN history and culture. Work began in 2013 with appointment of a Curator to guide the subject and themes of the exhibit. This multi-year project provides YKDFN community expertise to the development of exhibit content, including gathering Elder’s knowledge, seeking input on storylines, and collecting artifacts to be displayed as part of the exhibit.

Dene artifact (arrow head) found during archaeology exploration around Yellowknife Bay. Objects like these will form part of the exhibit content at PWNHC.

Traditional Knowledge (TK) Program Land and Environment’s Traditional Knowledge Program began the process of developing a database suitable for digitizing more than 40 years of traditional knowledge research contained in maps, reports, audio and video tapes stored in Lands and Environment’s files. Long-term plans involve the production of a secure website containing YKDFN traditional knowledge data that will not only help to preserve this valuable information but will enable us to better respond to development pressures within the Chief Drygeese Territory. Most significantly, this TK database will document evidence of both past and present land use by the YKDFN and will therefore become an important part of current land claim negotiations and also future land use planning initiatives by the GNWT. Work continued on developing a museum exhibit telling the story of the Yellowknives Dene. This educational exhibit is under production at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre with an anticipated launch date in late September 2015.

Industry sponsored traditional knowledge projects were conducted in the Edaalá (Whitebeach Point) and Ek’ati (Lac de Gras)/Nàk’ooɂaatı̀ (Lac du Sauvage) areas while AANDC/CARD provided funding for projects in the Homıìtì (Gordon Lake), and Ruth/Bullmoose areas. Work also continued on gathering and determining the correct spelling for numerous traditional place names. These will be submitted to the GNWT for formal approval and inclusion on official maps.

Drybones Bay Judicial Review In 2011, Alex Debogorski filed an Exploration Permit for his mineral claim at Drybones Bay with the MVLWB. An Environmental Assessment was ordered to review the potential impacts of the work on the culturally and environmentally sensitive area. A permit was granted and YKDFN challenged the approval in federal court, in response.

YKDFN objected to the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board’s (MVEIRB) ruling that the project was deemed to not cause significant adverse effects to either the environment or the cultural, economic or social well-being of YKDFN members. Satisfactory discharge of the Crown’s duty to consult was also challenged. YKDFN sought to overturn MVEIRB’s ruling and asked the judge to order a formal planning process for the area of Drybones Bay to prevent similar rulings in the future..

In 2013, the court ruled against YKDFN (in favor of Debogorski’s claim) upholding the MVEIRB’s ruling. YKDFN filed an appeal with the Federal Court of Appeal. Unfortunately, the Court of Appeal upheld the lower court’s decision. Currently, Mr. Debogorski is not pursuing exploration on the Drybones Bay site, due to a lack of financial resources.

The Land & Environment Department is currently monitoring this issue, and is actively pursuing strategies aimed at gaining control of the Drybones Bay area.

Photo Credit: Melissa Mackenzie Photo Credit: Melissa Mackenzie

Jay Project Dominion Diamond Ekati Corporation (DDEC) is moving forward with its proposal to develop the Jay Project. This project involves the construction of a new pit in Lac du Sauvage, just north of The Narrows connecting Lac du Sauvage with Lac de Gras. The goal is to exploit the Jay Pipe kimberlite deposit. Currently, the project is moving through the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board (The Board) hearing process. As an intervener in the hearing YKDFN has actively participated in consultation with DDEC and the GNWT. Land & Environment (L&E) has submitted multiple rounds of questions, and attended technical briefing and workshops relating to the Jay Project. L&E has also taken part in visits to the Jay Project’s proposed site.

Most recently, L&E has submitted a Technical Report as evidence in the hearing process. The Technical Report outlines YKDFN’s concerns around the Jay Projects potential impacts on wildlife (especially caribou), air quality, water quality and the appropriate use of Traditional Knowledge. The Technical Reports also makes recommendations to The Board as to potential remediation and offsetting measures that could be implemented if the Jay Project goes forward.

L&E will continue to prepare and advocate for YKDFN’s interests at the upcoming Board Hearing. YKDFN members are encouraged to attend the public hearings, which are scheduled for Sept 14th – Sept 16th as The Explorer Hotel. There will be a public question period.

Photo Credit: Melissa Mackenzie DeBeers Snap Lake Mine De Beers announced that it would be pursuing an amendment to its water licence at the Snap Lake mine. This is in response to the persistent high levels of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in effluent water from the Snap Lake operation. YKDFN has repeatedly expressed concerns about water quality at Snap Lake and opposed the proposed amendment to the water license that would allow for an increase in the allowable TDS in effluent at Snap Lake.

MVEIRB ruled that it could not amend the water license to allow TDS to exceed the previous limit of 350 mg/L. Subsequently, MVEIRB referred the file to the Mackenzie Valley Land and water board (MVLWB) with a series of recommended condition aimed at mitigating the proposed increase in effluent TDS. Currently, MVLWB is assessing the project and Land & Environment has been actively engaged in the process.

Photo credit: Melissa Mackenzie

DeBeers Gahcho Kue Mine In February 2013, YKDFN ratified an Impact Benefit Agreement (IBA) with DeBeers for the Gahcho Kue Diamond Mine. This IBA includes provisions for hiring and training YKDFN members, community wellness initiatives, business opportunities and compensation. This IBA makes use of lessons from previous mining projects and IBAs

Currently, construction of major buildings at the site is underway. L&E is monitoring this project as there is some concern about the company meeting measures laid out in The Boards Environmental Assessment.

Photo Credit

William Lines

Giant Mine Advisory Committee (GMAC) The Yellowknives Dene First Nation (YKDFN) is collaborating with Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC) and the Government of (GNWT) in the remediation of the Giant Mine site. We are committed to ensure our members’ views are considered within the remediation project through the committee. The Committee’s main role is to analyze and discuss the Giant Mine Environmental Management Plans progress. The Committee provides comments or suggestions based on YKDFN Traditional Knowledge, concerning the remediation plan for Giant Mine. The members of the committee consist of Fred Sangris, Peter. D. Sangris, Angus Martin, Eddie Goulet, Theresa Black, Roy. Jr. Erasmus, and Diane Betsina. They meet once a month. These committee meetings are open to YKDFN members.

The current Community Liaison Technical Advisor is Johanne Black. This position coordinates all aspects of YKDFN consultation and participation in the Giant Mine project (logistical arrangements of GMAC, public community hearings, mine site tours, evaluation meetings with elders, and YKDFN executive briefings). The Advisor also reviews technical documents and prepares plain language interpretations. William Lines is currently assisting with this process and is training to become the Assistant Community Liaison Technical Advisor. After he is adequately trained, and is in the Assistant position for a period of time, he will eventually take on the role of the Community Liaison Technical Advisor.

A side project currently running through GMAC is the Toxic Legacies project. Toxic Legacies is about communicating to future generations the dangers or risks involved with Giant Mine. Since the arsenic will need to be frozen forever, we have to determine how to communicate this to future generations. They need to know how tremendously lethal the stored arsenic will be if it is not maintained properly. Arn Keeling from Memorial University and John Sandlos from Lakehead University are associates with the Toxic Legacies project.

Community briefings were held in Ndilo in February 2015. Further meetings will be held in the fall of 2015. These meetings are held so that YKDFN members can be informed about the Giant Mine clean up, and voice any concerns or suggestions that they think GMAC can improve upon. By assessing the views of the members, GMAC members can better represent the YKDFN.

While the majority of the work on the Roaster Deconstruction Project took place in 2014, work on the project was finished in June 2015. Debris and other dangerous materials have been removed from the site into a temporary material storage area. Exposed soil at the Roaster Complex will be covered to decrease any negative effects from dust.

Giant Mine Roaster Complex, after demolition, June 2015 ` Photo Credit: William Lines

A surface tour of Giant Mine was held on June 9, 2015 for GMAC and YKDFN members. This would give members a better understanding of the mine by viewing the site and asking questions.

A healing ceremony was held at the Wiilideh Site on Aboriginal Day. Over 500 people attended the ceremony. Elders led a feed the fire ceremony, while YKDFN drummers played prayer songs. Representatives from various organizations attended the ceremony. There was a signing ceremony on Aboriginal Day for The Environmental Impact Agreement that was signed on May 22nd, 2015. The ceremony reaffirmed commitments to positive co-management of the area.

YKDFN is participating in the Surface Design Engagement (SDE) process to assist in remediation plans for the Giant Mine surface level. Numerous Elders and YKDFN members came to the SDE sessions to give their input and Traditional Knowledge. As well they raised any concerns about the project. Session meetings were held in June with follow up meetings to be held in late September.

The Cumulative Impact Monitoring Program (CIMP) is a two-year study. CIMP provides monitoring and assessment of cumulative environmental impacts in the Northwest Territories (NWT). CIMP monitors water, wildlife and birds, vegetation and fire, fish, air and climate, marine life, snow, ice, and permafrost. CIMP has engaged YKDFN through Land and Environment by asking for Traditional Knowledge and sampling locations. The Underground Stabilization Project is in process to minimize risks of rocks collapsing underground. Large empty spaces underground are being filled with a paste consisting of tailings, water and cement. This paste is pumped underground where it hardens to help keep the structures from collapsing. This work will also help to prevent water from entering the mine and causing further damage.

In May 2015, high winds and dry conditions at the tailing ponds caused visible dust sightings at the mine. Community members in Ndilo reported the dust cloud and the dust Action Level was triggered at one of the fenceline air quality monitoring stations.

The tailing ponds are watered down daily to keep the dust immobile. On that day, however, the water truck broke down. The back-up water truck got stuck in the tailing pond, because it wasn’t properly equipped. No other water trucks were readily available. Thus, the tailings were left dry. High wind gusts in the afternoon caused the visible dust until the tailings were watered down again. The Project Team met with the GMAC Committee on June 25, 2015. The events that occurred in May were discussed with a focus on implementing ways of preventing this from happening in the future. Possible improvements to the air quality monitoring program were also discussed.

Photo Credit: Rachel Crapeau Photo Credit: Rachel Crapeau

Contaminants and Remediation Directorate (CARD) work CARD is a division of AANDC responsible for contaminated and abandoned mine sites in the NWT. Funding is made available for First Nations, like YKDFN, to participate in assessment, classification, remediation and monitoring of sites. During 2014-15, old mine sites at various locations on Chief Drygeese Territory were the focus of the work. Funding was dedicated to either conduct a YKDFN review of the proposed Remedial Action Plan (RAP) and/or site visits to assess potential impacts. YKDFNs involvement at contaminated sites are as follows:  Bullmoose/Ruth Remediation  Great Slave Lake Remediation (Blanchet Island Mine, Copper Pass Mine, Outpost Island Mine)  Gordon Lake Area Sites Remediation

Photo Credit: William Lines

Aboriginal Headstart

Aboriginal Head Start has no shortage of parents wanting their children to attend AHS this year! The children definitely learned as much as they could and we could see their growth over the year. We feel the children are more than ready for Kindergarten. We had another 21 children graduate from our four year old AHS Programs and six children from the three-year-old program.

Highlights: The 2014/2015 school year was a wonderful experience for those children who attended. The children had made many wonderful Bonnie Henderson memories at AHS. This year the children experience many cultural activities both on the land and in the classroom. The children were able Program Manager to see what beaver lodge looks like; they went out on the land to Aboriginal Headstart experience how to snare a rabbit. They learned many words and songs in the Willideh dialect.

The children went on various field trips such as going to the fire department also to the Department of Renewable Resources. The Renewable Resource Officer talked to the children about trapping and what of animals live in the north, he also showed the children many furs and told them stories about trapping.

They went on nature walks, outings to the field house, spring picnics, baking for snack time, visits to the fire hall and the museum and of course parties for all occasions (Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day & Easter). At our Spring Cultural Camp they cleaned fish and made dry and split fish that we cooked over an open fire.

There are two highlights that stick out for us; one is that the children had physical activity every Friday as we had access to the community gym. Most days they were outside on the playground unless it was -30. They also did yoga, skipping, hopscotch and other active participatory games. Health Canada states young children should have 90 minutes of physical activity a day. We achieved this with the children.

The second was the healthy eating that happened. The classroom staff did a great job in their menu planning and the children were encouraged to eat what they were given. At the beginning of the year the staff gave the children option of milk or water. I did not think this would work! Many of our children are addicted to juice and; their teeth show us that their diet mainly consists of juice or pop. The children really surprised me and stopped asking for juice and began to drink milk or water! Also the children were taught by Tina Crapeau (Language and Culture Teacher) to say milk or water in Tililo, some of the children picked up very quickly how to say milk or water in Tililo.

The children also spent time in the kitchen, many children helped with preparing snack, baking and cooking for snack. Little did they know they were learning math and science.

The amount of success this year has been amazing. The children came to school with speech challenges and without our speech and language workers from Stanton Territorial Hospital they would not have improved as much. Parents noticed as well and commented.

Looking Ahead The children have all learned to be respectful of each other and to negotiate in a good way to get what they need and to play together. When they cannot they ask for help. They express their feelings, and are trusting to be able to do so.

Other success has been with math. The children are being exposed to the language of math daily, and in all the centers. Four children have mastered number value. The rest have had a healthy exposure, which will help them greatly in Kindergarten. However, being a child led program is very positive for them to get exposure to what will be needed for learning later on. We are able to allow this to happen, in a fun safe way. This is really a success for us as a program.

One of the positive changes we made this year was lowering our enrollment. This allows the classroom staff to spend more time with children individually. It also helps to reduce behavioral issues. We found it challenging at times having only two teachers. It makes it difficult to evaluate the children or deal with behavioral issues. While one staff member is with a child in a one on one situation, the other is with the remainder of the children. It would be helpful to have someone to do snack preparation or another pair of hands to assist during transitions. Changes in routine are often problematic for young children.

We found the coaching sessions with Dr. Chalmers were very helpful. We have learned a lot about teaching preschool children in a child-led classroom. The math discussions were especially beneficial. We have a better understanding of how children can learn math through their play and different ways in which they can be taught. However, being a child led program is very positive for them to get exposure to what will be needed for learning later on. We are able to allow this to happen, in a fun safe way. This is really a success for us as a program. Many of the children would just tune out, if the curriculum was not so engaging and child led.

Graduation was amazing is coming up in June! The children looked so cute dressing in their cap and gowns and they were on their best behavior. Many family members attended the ceremony and helped by decorating, donating food and with the clean up afterwards. The children were given a hoodie with the AHS logo on the back, a yearbook and a copy of their favorite book. The parents were thrilled to hear their children sing Gohta Ladii (Where is Thumbkin) song in the Willideh dialect.

Staffing is always a challenge for our program. There are very few Aboriginal peoples who have their early childhood certificate/diploma. This is very important to have, as staff members need to understand how preschool children develop and learn. It is good if prospective staff have 60% of program requirements to train and work for us. Otherwise we spend most of our time training the classroom staff.

Overall the children have become wonderful little human beings. Hopefully they take with them, the knowing that they are special and unique. That they can take chances be curious and be successful.

They have experienced being valued for whom they are, learned to understand some of their culture, and encouraged in every way. All of them benefitted greatly from this program, many would have been lost without it.

Although this is just a highlight of our activities at our Head Start it gives you an idea of the scope of our program. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to call me and I would be happy to answer them for you. We would welcome a visit by you any time you were available.

Photo Credit: Reanna Erasmus Photo Credit: Reanna Erasmus

Housing Division

Finance The 2014/2015 fiscal year was the Housing Division’s first year of operation under the NWT Housing Corporation’s Community Housing Services Program. Under this program, all Local Housing Organizations (LHO) are on fixed administration and maintenance budgets and all public housing utility is administered by the NWT Housing Corporation.

The Housing Division’s (unaudited) 2014/2015 variance report attached shows total revenues of $ 651,449, total expenses of $ 574,843, resulting in a year-end surplus of $ 76,606.

Stephan Folkers In 2014/2015, YKDFN public housing tenants did very well in terms of Director Housing/ providing income information, setting-up rent payment plans and Public Works making regular rent payments! The Housing Division invoiced its tenants a total of $ 1,328,586 in maximum rents. A total of $ 1,080,722 was assessed in rent subsidies, resulting in a net rents receivable of $ 247,864. A total of $ 242,100 was collected from the tenants, resulting in a rent collection percentage of 98%.

As part of the Community Housing Services Program, the NWT Housing Corporation set-up a Collections Division which is actively collecting rents on behalf of LHO by means of NWT Rental Office hearings and NWT Courts garnishee summons. In light of these collection efforts, the Housing Division advised tenants with arrears to report their household income on a monthly basis and set-up a rent payment plan with the Housing Division.

Human Resources Rose Black returned from maternity leave on January 5, 2015 to assume her regular Tenant Relations Officer duties. The registration of Dennis Sabourin as Housing Maintainer apprentice has been delayed because under Department of Education, Culture and Employment regulations, he cannot apprentice as Housing Maintainer under his supervisor’s (Ross Paddock) Oil Burner Mechanic journeyman ticket. The Housing Division is working to resolve this issue.

Maintenance In 2014/2015, the Housing Division completed all annual preventative maintenance work (heating system servicing, water tank cleaning and fire extinguisher servicing among others). Ross Paddock, Dennis Sabourin and summer students completed a total of 2475 maintenance work orders for 73 public housing units, shop and office and YKDFN assets.

The Housing Division received $ 16,000 in minor M&I (modernization and improvement) funding with which two public housing interior renovation projects were completed.

In October 2014, the Housing Division began maintenance of the NWT Housing Corporation pellet boilers at the Senior Homes in Ndilo and Dettah. Throughout the winter, Ross Paddock and Dennis Sabourin encountered many technical problems with these boiler systems. The Housing Division is working with the NWT Housing Corporation and contractor to solve the boiler problems.

The YKDFN Housing Committee met eight times between April 1, 2014 and March 31, 2015 to discuss tenant relations matters such as public housing unit allocations, tenant files and rent collection measures

Public Works The YKDFN Public Works Department did a large number of community projects in 2014/2015:

 Development of the Dettah Community Public Infrastructure Plan: This plan lists the major infrastructure projects which will be undertaken in 2015/2016:  Chief Drygeese Building mortgage payment,  IT system upgrade  Pick-up truck replacement  Sewage lagoon upgrades  Electronic message boards installation  Construction of a warehouse in Dettah, design and engineering of a two-bay extension of the Dettah fire hall, development of an asset management system  Construction of the Ndilo greenhouse, landscaping around the Chief Drygeese building  Upgrade of the Dettah firefighting equipment  Replacement of the Dettah dock.

The YKDFN entered into a three year partnership with CanNor to upgrade its IT system. The project funding will enable the YKDFN to replace and network its desktop computers, install two servers, upgrade the network connectivity and build IT capacity.

A sewage lagoon study which was undertaken in the fall of 2014 as a result of Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board concerns about the lagoon’s infrastructure and performance. The report concluded that the lagoon is operating well but that the turn-around pad, the berm and sewage discharge piping need to be upgraded. The brush was cut the sewage lagoon access and perimeter roads during the summer.

Dettah community roads engineering plan which was done in preparation of the 2015/2016 Dettah Roads and Drainage Upgrade Project. The plan calls for installation of culverts, embankment improvements, realignment of roads and curbs and parking lots the summer or fall of 2015. A large amount of gravel will be crushed and stockpiled at the Dettah quarry.

The YKDFN passenger vans and one pick-up truck were replaced. Because of their high mileage, the replaced vehicles began having mechanical trouble and were becoming a liability.

Looking Ahead Housing Division is currently working on the following projects:

 Diavik provided the YKDFN with engineering advice for the installation of two electronic message boards in Ndilo and Dettah. The signs will be connected to the YKDFN IT network.

 Construction of a recycling/waste segregation pad at the Dettah landfill which allows YKDFN to separate items such as: appliances and hazardous waste like tires, paints, oil and batteries from the household waste. The appliances and hazardous waste are disposed of at the City of Yellowknife landfill. Segregation of waste is required under the Mackenzie Valley Lands and Water Board land use permit.

 Construction of a recycling center was built in Dettah, which is to avoid hazardous waste and recyclable materials from the Dettah landfill. The recyclables are disposed of at the Yellowknife landfill or blue bins. A similar recycling centre, funded by ENR, will be built in Ndilo in the summer 2015.

 In partnership with ITI, the Dettah garden was built and the Ndilo greenhouse designed. The material for the greenhouse was purchased and a gravel pad was built. The greenhouse will be built in the spring, ready for the 2015 growing season.

 The Environmental Damages project funded by Environment Canada focused on a watershed clean-up along the and in Yellowknife Bay in the summer of 2014. The garbage from about 50 different sites was hauled by boat to Dettah for disposal at the landfill. A public education event was organized at the Wiilideh site in September.

 The Dettah emergency plan was finalized and is ready for implementation. The Chief Drygeese back-up generator project was completed in August 2014.

 A study was conducted to determine the feasibility of connecting the Ndilo gym, the Senior Home, the Boarding Home and other buildings in a pellet boiler district heating system. The study concluded that the district heating system wasn’t feasible due the high cost of installation.

Human Resources

Human Resources Mission Statement

Supporting excellence in the Yellowknives Dene First Nation membership services through the delivery of innovation, quality human resources.

Vision Work with every Yellowknives Dene First Nation member to provide leadership and excellence in human resources management that will contribute to the community and for self-reliance.

Values Nora Taylor We abide by our “Dene Laws” and implement into our workplace Human Resources We ensure a safe and healthy work environment Program Manager We treat our staff with respect and honesty

Goals Maximize employable and traditional transferable skills for YKDFN members for self-governance Promote post-secondary education and higher learning Encourage self-development to all YKDFN staff and members by partnering with other agencies

Introduction Human Resources is a piece in any business which means “the organizational function that deals with the people… that people are an organization’s most important asset”. The success of any business relies in its human resources, as without people, a “Company” cannot really succeed. People are an asset to any organization and must be well managed, for job satisfaction, employee development and retention. Human resources include managing the recruitment process; performance management; leave and attendance; staff training and development; employee relations; benefits and compensation for the Yellowknives Dene First Nation (YKDFN).

Highlights of Successes/Accomplishments Career Fair 2014 in May was a success once again Implementation of IBA unit moved and managed by HR in April 2014 Finance and HR Policies approved by Council in June 2013 Summer Student Program May 2014 to August 2014 Majority of YKDFN members hired for projects, summer employment within YKDFN Retention of long term employees

Employment Stats YKDFN has a total of 38 funded positions of which 2 are currently vacant and 33 casual positions for a total of 71 positions:  49 YKDFN member staff  11 other band status employees  11 other

A total of 154 persons hired during January 2014 to December 2014, which includes permanent staff, summer students, casual and on-call.

Employment Stats Total persons = 154 person/year

Blue = 120 YKDFN members YKDFN Red = 22 Other status Other Status Green = 12 Non status

Non Status

Summer students are another initiative undertaken by Human Resources. YKDFN employed approximately 30 summer students in 2014 and anticipates same or more jobs to be filled for 2015. For 2014 we had an overwhelming interest for summer employment. The summer employment goal is to provide our youth with the basic knowledge of employment opportunities and to explore their talents and interest to assist them in taking the next step in their lives.

The summer student program would not be a success without the contributions we have received from programs such as ASETS and INAC for providing the funding we needed to deliver our summer student employment initiative. Because of contribution such as ASETS and INAC, our students are better prepared and informed to succeed in choices they make in terms of their educational and career paths.

Employee Relations YKDFN would like to recognize the following long term employees who have committed to the First Nation, through thick and thin, from 5 years and longer: 34 years - Juanita Sangris, Finance Manager 25 years - Bernadette Charlo, Accounting Officer 19 years - Shirley Beaulieu, Custodian 17 years - Alice Abel, Mental Health Counsellor 17 years - Nora Sangris, Administrative Assistant 12 years - Melissa Mackenzie, Executive Assistant 9 years - Stephan Folkers, Director, Housing 9 years - Rose Black, Tenant Relations Officer 8 years - Bertha Goulet, Custodian 7 years - Shirley Fowler, Shuttle Bus Driver 7 years - Jennifer Drygeese, Director, Community Wellness (Mat leave) 6 years - Angela Charlo, Implementation Coordinator 6 years – Ernest Abel, Assistant CEO 5 years – Randy Freeman, Traditional Knowledge Specialist 5 years – Gilbert Quitte, Water Delivery Driver

Honorable mentions: 4 years – Nora Taylor, Human Resources Manager 4 years – Pamela Ambramchuk, ECE Teacher 2 years – Michael Cheeks, Chief Executive Officer 2 years – Johanne Black, A/Director, Land and Environment 2 years – Bonnie Henderson, AHS Program Manager 1.5 years – Tina Crapeau, ECE Culture/Language Teacher 1 year – Nyra Mackenzie, Administrative Assistant Trainee 1 year – Derrick Sangris, Community Works Coordinator 1 year – Margaret Erasmus, Director, Community Wellness 1 year – Herbert Frise Jr., AHS School Bus Driver

Well done folks!

We also have our newest addition to our team: 7 months – Delores Lacorne, Executive Assistant for Ndilo 7 months – Kavia Elemie, Early Childhood Educator 6 months – Ann Marie Hardisty, Administrative Assistant 4 months – Lesley Ann Evans, Human Resources/Liaison Coordinator 2 months – Alexander Power, Regulatory Research Specialist 2 months – Michael Corbett, Special Projects Coordinator

Congrats, and welcome aboard!

Photo Credit: Stephan Folkers

IBA Funds 2014 / 2015

Program Names Expenses IBA Payout 395,126.20 Chief & Council 530,714.42 Elders Council 51,650.00 Elders Fuel 4,848.76 Spiritual Gathering 47,972.86 DeBeers PA Office 94,349.95 Hunting/Trapping 99,461.54 Freezers 20,000.00 Staff Training 5,794.51 Culture - Goyatiko 74,050.00 Bus Passes 16,434.25 Reserve Funds 89,917.00 Chief Drygeese Complex 90,310.90 Diavik PA Office 32,074.31 Student Allowance 29,600.00 Ceremonies 29,407.71 Culture & Athletics 21,574.78 Contracts 8,341.54 Council Training 50,004.00 Scholarships 6,000.00 Spiritual Healers 12,000.00 Administration 51,556.21 Legal Test Case 60,000.00 Feasts 1,363.55 Total 1,822,552.49

IBA Payout Chief & Council Elders Council Elders Fuel Spiritual Gathering DeBeers PA Office Hunting/Trapping Freezers Staff Training Culture - Goyatiko Bus Passes Reserve Funds Chief Drygeese Complex Diavik PA Office Student Allowance Ceremonies Culture & Athletics Contracts Council Training Scholarships Spiritual Healers Administration Legal Test Case Feasts

Acknowledgement

2014 – 2015 Annual Report: Melissa Mackenzie Ernest Abel

Contributors: Chief Edward Sangris Chief Ernest Betsina Margaret Erasmus Johanne Black Bonnie Henderson Stephan Folkers Nora Taylor Michael Cheeks Juanita Sangris

Photo Compliments: Front Cover – Juanita Sangris

Program Managers Photo Ernest Abel

Yellowknives Dene First Nation P.O. Box 2514 Yellowknife, NT X1A 2P8

www.ykdene.com

Ndilo Administration Office Phone: (867) 873-8951 Fax: (867) 873-8545

Dettah Administration Office Phone: (867) 873-4307 Fax: (867) 873-5969