Annual Report 2015-2016

OGIMAAWABIITONG Chiefs Advisory Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Table of Contents Our Mission Statement

Mission, Vision & Values 2 Kenora Chiefs Advisory is committed & dedicated Code of Ethics 3 to providing culturally appropriate health and social services which address the needs and enhance the Board of Directors 4 well being and capacity of community members in our Elder & Youth Council 4 affiliated . Executive Director’s Message 5 Our Mandate Min-O-Qwe-Ke-Ga-Bwe’in Social Services Initiative 6 Kenora Chiefs Advisory is an alliance of independent, participating First Nations within the Western Region  ODSP Employment Support and has been incorporated and in operation since 1995. Health Programming 12 The Kenora Chiefs Advisory’s mandate is to provide  Gambling Addiction Awareness programs and services to the First Nations in the field of  First Nation Client Registry health, education and social services in a holistic,  Long Term Care traditional way ensuring the survival of the Anishinaabe way in the present and future generations. Chiefs from  Aboriginal Diabetes Education each of the eight communities constitute a board of  Children’s Services directors and govern Kenora Chiefs Advisory (KCA) while  Right To Play the day-to-day operations are managed by the  Aboriginal Healing & Wellness Executive Director. These Chiefs are accountable to the  Public Health Services First Nations that they represent.  Research on Tobacco Reduction in Aboriginal Communities Mental Health & Addictions 20  Children & Youth Mental Health  Youth in Transition  Bii-Zin-Da-De-Dah Prevention  Pre-Arrest Diversion  Wiisokodaadig Peer Helpers Financials 27

2 Our CODE OF ETHICS

The code of ethics are the organizations guiding principles. OGIMAAWABIITONG is dedicated and committed to “Excellence in all that we do”. The ethics along with the Seven Teachings speak to how the organization operates; in relation to interaction amongst clients, staff, members and other stakeholders. The following ethics and teachings reflect in both decision-making and service delivery.

 Honour and respect the beliefs, traditions and values of the Anishinaabe people who we provide services to;  Adhere to all policies and procedures outlined in the OGIMAAWABIITONG Finance & Personnel Manuals;  I will promote and maintain at all times, “THROUGH MY ACTIONS AND WORDS”, the integrity and dignity of OGIMAAWABIITONG; its programs, staff, and Members;  Avoid conflicts of interests between work & personal affairs;  Respect Confidentiality;  OGIMAAWABIITONG encourages fairness and diversity of all backgrounds and experiences in the workplace;  OGIMAAWABIITONG shall maintain a culture which recognizes and values ethical conduct through the following Seven Sacred Teachings;

HONESTY: LOVE: Don’t lie or steal, WALK WITH HONOUR… Love means showing compassion and understanding towards yourself and TRUTH: others. ASPIRING TO LIVE IN TRUTH & We are all personally accountable for what HARMONY… we say and do. If you believe in yourself, HUMILITY: respect your actions, YOU ARE LIVING Show your humility by asking colleagues THE TRUTH… for their opinions and giving credit for RESPECT: their assistance and ideas. TO BE Respect means never hurting or HUMBLE IS TO ACKNOWLEDGE OUR humiliating your colleagues by unkind LIMITIONS… words or gossip. TO HONOUR ALL OF WISDOM: CREATION IS TO HAVE RESPECT… Wisdom is seeking to learn all that we can BRAVERY: in a respectful manner and to take the Don’t be afraid to stand up for what you time to reflect upon our teachings… believe in; take risks and learn something new, STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE…

3 BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2015-2016

EXECUTIVE COMMITEE President Ochiichagwe'Babigo'Ining First Nation Chief Lorraine Cobiness Vice President Naotkamegwanning First Nation Chief Howard Kabestra Secretary/Treasurer Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation Chief Chris Skead BOARD MEMBERS Asubpeechoseewagong First Nation Chief Roger Fobister Obashkaandagaang First Nation Chief Alfred Sinclair Northwest Angle #33 First Nation Chief Darlene Ross-Comegan First Nation Chief Erwin Redsky Independent Nation Chief John Paishk

ELDER COUNCIL & YOUTH COUNCIL MEMBERS 2015-2016

Organizational Elder Allan White, Naotkamegwanning First Nation Asubpeeschoseewagong First Nation Susan Fobister, Billy Fobister Obashkaandagaang First Nation Rosalie Petawaniqueb, Ziigwan Green Ochiichagwe’Babigo’Ining First Nation Alice Kelly, Rachael Cameron Naotkamegwanning First Nation Andy White, Keanu Paypompee Northwest Angle #33 First Nation Agnes Paul, Harmony Scott Shoal Lake 40 First Nation Lillian Henry, Avery Meekis Wabaseemoong Independent Nation George Land, Marlin Scott Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation Lynn Skead, Sydney Flett

4 MESSAGE from the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As the Executive Director of the Kenora Chiefs Advisory, I am pleased to offer you a summary of the 2015/2016 activities. This years’ report is intended to inform our membership on what the Kenora Chiefs Advisory (KCA) has been doing to be more responsive and proactive to the needs and issues within the First Nations that we serve. The Staff and Board of Kenora Chiefs Advisory continues to go above and beyond to meet the needs of our communities and its members. I would like to take the opportunity to say thank you to the Board of Directors, Elders Council, Youth Council and staff for all of their hard work and dedication throughout the year. Without all of you, Kenora Chiefs Advisory would not have grown and continue to grow into the organization it is today. Miigwech, Joe Barnes, Executive Director Funding Highlights 2015-2016  Increase - AHWS $100,000  Increase - Accreditation Funding $28,000 New Funding  McGill University $66,219 for “Listening to One Another”  Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs, $50,000 Family Violence  Right to Play $92,595  New Horizons, Elders’ Advisory $25,000  Save the Children, Peer Helpers $59,914  FNIHB Public Health $50,000  FNIHB Health Planning $20,000  MCYS Youth in Transition $70,000  FNIHB Mental Health Crisis $112,500  FNIHB Software $50,000  LHINS Training, Promotion $88,000 & Education  GCT3 Mental Health $90,000  MCSS ODSP $93,000  GCT3 Tobacco Strategy $58,540  MCYS Rehabilitation Proposal $20,000

5 Min-O-Qwe-Ke-Ga-Bwe’ In Social Services Initiative Program (MSSI)

The MSSI program was developed by eight First Nation Affairs . This partnership has been in operation communities in 1998 in order to provide employment for 18 years. assistance through the use of a group delivery model. In April 2015, a long-standing First Nation member In 2007, the group implemented the Cluster Model and opted out of the group delivery model. At the same started to delivery the full Works program with time, the program welcomed Northwest Angle #33 increased cost of administration. The relationship First Nation into the group delivery model and between the member First Nations and KCA-MSSI subsequently received approval of their Ontario Works program is defined by service agreements. Service Plan in October 2015. Northwest Angle #33 First Nation Ontario Works program progressed from The Ontario Works program is funded by the Ministry of part-time to full-time service delivery. Community and Social Services and Indian and Northern

Cluster Model

Each First Nation maintain their Ontario Works designation and deliver both the financial and employment assistance services in their communities. While cooperating with the other member First Nations, they share additional centralized Ontario Works functions delivered through the KCA-MSSI program.

Affiliated Communities

1. Asubpeechoseewagong Netum Anishinabek 2. Naotkamegwanning 3. Ochiichagwe'Babigo'Ining 4. Obashkaandagaang 5. Shoal Lake #40 6. Eagle Lake 7. Iskatewizaagegan #39 (former) 8. Northwest Angle #33 (new)

Social Service Administrators: Arlene, Tina, Brenda, Leona, Shirley and Margaret 6 First Nation Community # of Visits Community Visits & Asubpeechoseewagong Netum Anishinabek 26 Community Travel Naotkamegwanning 12 Ochiichagwe'Babigo'Ining 15 The MSSI Staff conducted 118 on-site visits to the local Ontario Works program in each Shoal Lake #40 11 member First Nation community. The number Obashkaandagaang 14 of visits doubled in comparison to the previous Northwest Angle #33 10 fiscal year of 53 on-site visits. Eagle Lake 30 Total 118

Internal File Audits Monthly Actual # of Files First Nation Community Target Reviewed * It is the responsibility of the Program Asubpeechoseewagong Support Worker to conduct internal file audits 10 10 Netum Anishinabek to monitor program delivery, staff practices and to identify areas for improvement. Naotkamegwanning 10 10

During the months of April to December 2015 Ochiichagwe'Babigo'Ining 5 5 the MSSI program focused on file standards Shoal Lake #40 5 5 and filing within the Ontario works offices. Obashkaandagaang 5 0 As of January 2016, the program focused on Northwest Angle #33 5 0 internal file audits and monthly targets were Eagle Lake 5 5 established. Total 45/month 35

* * during the months of January 2016 to March 2016 Appeals Process

Applicant or participant has a right to appeal any decision made that affects their eligibility for or the amount of their assistance. If an applicant requests # of client requests for 4 an internal review, the request will be referred to the MSSI who will conduct an internal review the internal review process for the member First Nations within the time- frame.

7 Family Support Worker Services To assist parents in receipt of financial assistance to pursue adequate support in accordance with child support guidelines, either in court or through obtaining out-of-court settlements.

Average Monthly Number of Ontario Works Clients referred to the FSW 96 (Sole Support, Temporary Care, 16 & 17 Year Old, Previous Spousal, Other)

Average Monthly Number of Active FSW Files Opened 143

Percentage of FSW Files Waived & Monitored 78% *70% of the FSW Files Waived are due to the Absent Parent on ODSP/OW

Percentage of FSW Files Permanently Waived 4%

Percentage of FSW Files Required to Pursue Support through a Court Order or an Agreement. 18%

Eligibility Review Officer Services # of new allegations received 5 To investigate the eligibility of present and past applicants and recipients. and reviewed by ERO

Emergency Support Services (ESS) Three Ontario Works programs experienced staff turnover and required ESS to ensure client service delivery continued within the community. This included:  One OW program required 8 months of support as they conducted a search for a new Administrator  One OW program required 10 months of support due to their Administrator on leave  One OW program required 3 months of support due to their Administrator on leave  Provided 2 days of support to a member of the Organization as they conducted a search for a new Administrator

Reporting Requirements Importance was placed on reporting requirements and meeting deadlines for the Ontario Works program. Our program assisted the Social Service Administrators with the following reports:  Service Plan updates for the new funding cycle 2015-2017  Annual Budget Submissions for 2015 and 2016  Quarter Reports and monitoring of Outcome Measures

8 Policy Development Training and Meetings

Local Policies and forms are in place to ensure  4 network meetings group consistency and consist of the following:  2 GWA software training sessions with  Administration Policy, Local Policy, AD Morrison & Associates Ltd and Discretionary Benefits  4 training sessions that included Funeral  The program coordinated 2 group meetings & Burial policy review, Subsidy Claim, to update the policies and discuss Ontario Homemakers, and SAIL sessions delivered Works directives and changes. by ONWAA  Policy Development & Training, May 22-24  Employment Assistance Training for new  Program Meeting / Policy Edits, Oct 16-18 Ontario Works staff  Volunteer Income Tax Training  On-site training and mentoring as needed

Additional support in the areas of: Drafting Job Descriptions Administrative Filing Information Sessions Program Presentations Employment Experience Applications Review of Subsidy Claims Bank Reconciliations Support Services via Phone/Email Participated in Interviews Shooniyaa Wa-Biitoong - Wage Subsidy Applications

Other Highlights

 Provided presentation on the MSSI OW Group Delivery Model at the GCT#3 Poverty Reduction Strategy Roundtable Discussion with Karen Glass, ADM.  The Low Income Dental Program (HSO) Healthy Smiles Ontario was introduced to First Nation Ontario Works Delivery Agents  The Ontario Electricity Support Program was introduced to First Nation Ontario Works Delivery Agents to help reduce electricity bills for eligible lower income households and became effective January 2016.  In partnership with the Local Kenora Office a Pilot Project regarding ODSP Referrals was introduced to our member First Nation Ontario Works Delivery Agents in May 2015. Purpose of the pilot is to achieve a streamlined and efficient ODSP referral process using the SAMS Online Application Process: 3 member First Nations participated.

9 ODSP Employment Supports Services

Purpose of the one year pilot project is to assess the viability of the KCA as an ES service provider and to currently expand the ODSP ES Services to an area currently lacking these services. The Pilot Project started April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016

Intent of the program is to provide services to ODSP clients and/or persons with a disability and to assist eligible clients to prepare for, obtain and maintain employment. Key services include employability assessment, job readiness, job placement and job coaching. The program Client Service Path experienced a slight delay (1 month) due to staff turnover. WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

March 2016, KCA received an additional one The ODSP ES program will ensure that eligible clients within year extension ending March 31, 2017. the communities have access to employment support services and receive assistance to achieve their employment goals.

Eligible clients include:

 Have a confirmed disability  Be 16 years of age  Not be in receipt of social assistance through the Ontario Works program  Registered member/community member of the First Nations that are affiliated with Kenora Chiefs Advisory both on/off reserve

Potential clients include persons with verifiable disabilities who are in receipt of ODSP Income Support, Employment Insurance, Canada Pensions Plan (disability) and WSIB benefits. Potential clients with verifiable disabilities such as FASD and other learning disorders may also be suitable for this program.

During the first few months of the pilot project extensive marketing, networking and information sessions were conducted in the member First Nation communities and surrounding areas. 10 ODSP Employment Support Program Statistics The program targeted a total of 13 clients to be serviced by the program which includes 12 in Job Placement and 1 in Self Employment. Overall 4 participants successfully started a job within the last 6 months.

Statistical Data Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 # of participants who have completed an application for ODSP ES services 0 1 9 9 # of participants approved by ODSP for ES services 0 0 5 5 # of participants who started a job placement 0 0 3 4 # of participants employed for 13 weeks 0 0 0 2 # of participants who start a business (self-employed) 0 0 0 0 # of participants who start a business plan 0 0 0 0

Other Statistics # of calls received from The program became recognized as a support system for people living people requiring help with 25 ODSP Income Support with disabilities. The support provided with ODSP applications allows us to connect with potential clients for ODSP ES services. Most commonly, # of persons assisted with 17 people are experiencing issues and confusion with the ODSP application Online ODSP Applications process and require navigation services.

Client Success Story “Participating in the Kenora Chiefs Advisory Employment Support Program provided me with supports while I was employed with the Naotkamegwanning Circle of Hope Program... it was great! I learned to socialize with people young and old. It was a good experience for me, it gave me the will to speak out a little more, it helped me be more comfortable and confident. Working at Naotkamegwanning Health Services was really fun, I got to learn more techniques that will help me in future employment like; answering the phone and communicating professionally with the person, as well as being able to interact with everyone, to help everyone as much as I can. Having the opportunity to work within the health setting was a great learning experience for me because I do plan on training to become a Doctor after I graduate.” Summer Gauthier

11 Gambling Addiction Awareness Program

Working with the 28 Treaty #3 communities, we provide workshops, presentations, education and training with a focus on Responsible Gambling & Problem Gambling. Our mandate is to design, develop and deliver holistic approaches that address problem gambling and promote responsible gambling in a culturally appropriate manner. KEY POINTS  Visited 5 Treaty #3 First Nation Schools to educate on gambling and its effects  Held 16 Regional workshops Prevention  Resource Development  Held 4 community Sharing Circles to discuss issues around gambling  Promotion  Awareness  Training  Local Treaty #3 Responsible Gambling Working Group & Education  Advocacy & Support  established and meets quarterly Treatment & Rehabilitation  2 Youth Ambassadors received training in Problem & Responsible Gambling  Attended 6 Treaty #3 Community Health Fairs  Partnered with NNADAP, CWW, PSW, Ontario Works, Aboriginal Healing, Wellness Worker, KCA and KCA-MHA programs  Partnered with the LWDH and CAMH for training and education  Regional Training For NNADAP (Certified Gambling Counsellor Levels l / ll ) 14/28 NNADAP attended  7 service providers have obtained their Certified Problem Gambling Certificate. This certificate enables workers to identify problem gamblers at the early stages and promote responsible gambling  Updated webpage information  Partnered with Ontario Aboriginal Responsible Gambling Program (OARGP).

Ontario Aboriginal Responsible Gambling Program (OARGP)

The Gambling Addiction Awareness Program is a long-standing and active member of the OARGP which is a comprehensive First Nation, Métis and Inuit culture based problem gambling prevention program. The OARGP engages its partners in developing a collaborative approach to address the risks associated with problem gambling. The OARGP meets up to 4 times a year for training, education, resource development, and sharing of all stakeholders. 12 First Nation Client Registry (FNCR)

The FNCR addresses issues such as lack of accurate information and the need for evidence-based planning. The FNCR contains demographical data that is owned and managed by the participating First Nations and respects the principles of OCAP. Health Canada’s Health Services Integration Fund (HSIF) has funded a project to link the FNCR with Cancer Care Ontario’s (CCO) Client Registry. The project is well under- way and has produced statistical data such as the incidence of cancer. Cancer Care Ontario has recently made investments into the FNCR that would support building a link between the FNCR and the Ontario Cancer Registries. This will allow the KCA First Nations to have access to accurate epidemiological data regarding cancer rates and cancer screening requirements within their communities.

KEY POINTS:  The FNCR is one of the few sources containing First Nation data and provides current demographic data at source;  Increased Data Sharing/Interoperability: designed to integrate with other systems such as the Provincial Client Registry (PCR) and Cancer Care Ontario (CCO)’s InScreen Registry;  Scalability/Potential for Expansion: ability to include all First Nations in Ontario and across Canada;  Secure/Private: Built in security model. Privacy Impact NEXT STEPS: Assessment (PIA) and Threat Risk Assessment (TRA) conducted;  Offer other First Nations in  Provides accurate information about each community to inform Ontario the opportunity to funding levels for health and social services participate .

CURRENT STATUS:  Consider using demographical information in the FNCR for other  Fully operational and initial population with KCA data completed. uses such as community planning and social services  A Data Sharing Agreement between CCO and KCA has been signed by the KCA Chiefs in support of the project. This is a significant  Partner with other health entities achievement that allows the sharing of First Nation data with a in Ontario to support further provincial health care system. gathering of epidemiological data for First Nations health planning.

13 Long-Term Care Program

The Long Term Care Program (LTC) is a First Nation based Homemaker & Home Support Service. It is designed to provide in-home services to the Elderly, disabled, as well as, prenatal, postnatal, and post-surgical care clients that require support. The focus is to assist individuals to remain in their homes instead of in long-term care facilities or hospital settings. Essential Services include:  In-home services: cooking, cleaning, personal care, etc  Home Support Services: yard cleaning, chopping wood, shovelling snow, etc  Support & Services: to families in need of services.

Number of Community Workers Number of Clients Home Support Workers 14 Home Support 115 Home Makers 18 Home Making 96

Aboriginal Diabetes Education Program

The Aboriginal Diabetes Education Program partners with our community programs to promote health, wellness and diabetes prevention strategies to members of all ages and all levels of health within our 8 member First Nation communities. Our goal is to educate and empower community members to embrace culturally appropriate healthy lifestyle choices. PROGRAM ACTIVITIES  Health fairs and events  Community kitchens  community gardens  Sharing circles  Group exercise activities with elders & children  Nutrition Bingo  Fall vegetable harvesting & canning  Diabetes screening  Educational workshops: nutrition, physical activity, diabetes prevention, and maintenance, label reading, gestational diabetes, kidney health, smoking cessation, heart health, budget friendly, meal preparation & recipe sharing

14 Children's Services

FASD Program

The FASD program’s vision is to create conditions in which parental and infant health will flourish. It has two goals: 1) to prevent FASD births, and 2) improve the knowledge, skills, and quality of life of FASD affected children, mothers, fathers and families. PROGRAM SERVICES:  Case management: clients & families in Kenora & on-reserve  Prevention: community outreach  Education: family planning, risks of alcohol/drugs during pregnancy  Training: to community front line workers  Referrals

Aboriginal Child Nutrition

The Aboriginal Child Nutrition Program provides child nutrition activities, workshops, and nutritional support for healthy development of children and extended families.

Referrals & Advocacy

The Children’s Services Program helps clients and their families access prenatal care, parenting, cultural needs, harm reduction services and referrals for drug and alcohol treatment both on and off-reserve.

2015-2016 Program Statistics # Clients / Relations 11 # Services Provided 24 # Program Events / Workshops 41 # Participants Total 60

15 Right To Play

The RIGHT TO PLAY program is an intensive training and coaching program for local youth workers to help them design, initiate, facilitate, measure and celebrate truly powerful and dynamic outcome based programs that use sport and play as the vehicle. Working in partnership with Aboriginal communities and urban organizations across Canada, RIGHT TO PLAY works with local youth workers to design and deliver weekly sport- and play-based programs that encourage physical activity, tackle health issues relevant to Aboriginal children and promote their development into leaders.

Community Mentors are assigned 2 communities:  Ochiichagwe'Babigo'Ining & Wabaseemoong  Naotkamegwanning & Northwest Angle #33  Shoal Lake #40 & Obashkaandagaang

ACTIVITIES

 Sports development: badminton, volleyball, archery, baseball, floor hockey, basketball, soccer

 Nutrition: cooking, healthy meals, smoothie PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS stations, food preparation  Warrior Challenge: Kenora Armory Forces soldier based obstacle course designed for children to  Education: smoking cessation, traditional tobacco experience what it’s like to be in the army. use, healthy eating, diabetes. bullying 60 participants from 5 First Nation communities

 Sewing: ribbon skirts, hand bags, aprons  Baseball Rookie League Tournament: Event to bring together kids, families & communities.  Crafts: beading, dream catchers, friendship 30 participants from 4 First Nation communities bracelets, inter-community events: dances, spring clean up, sports tournaments  Painted Turtle Camp: to promote arts, crafts, dance, theatre & drama. 60 participants from 3 First Nation communities

16 Aboriginal Healing and Wellness Strategy

Asubpeechoseewagong First Nation  Naotkamegwanning First Nation  Obashkaandagaang First Nation  Ochiichagwe'Babigo'Ining First Nation  Shoal Lake 40 First Nation

Community Wellness Worker Program

The Community Wellness Worker is a community based program that provides family services, referrals, support and wellness issues or violent situations. The workers provide prevention/awareness activities as well as liaise and share information with Health and Social Service agencies.

Community Based Activities CWW PROGRAM # of Activities # Participants

Participant Based 175 2695

Traditional Based 87 1445

Aboriginal Healthy Babies / Healthy Children Program

The AHBHC Program was created as a way to support families in celebrating and honouring new and young life in the community. The program is a prevention and early intervention strategy of service for children from prenatal to six years of age. The overall program goal is to assist families to provide the best opportunities for healthy development, through family support and service identification, service coordination and referrals.

Community Based Activities AHBHC Program # of Activities # of Participants

Participant Based 102 2874

Traditional Based 37 660

17 What is Public Health? Public Health Public Health is an organized Services Project effort to promote, protect, restore, and improve the health The First Nations and Inuit Health Branch and well-being of all individuals (FNIHB) currently oversees the funding within a community. It is a and delivery of public health services to KCA's 8 communities. We plan to preventative, population-based transfer the delivery of services to KCA, in approach to address the broader partnership with the Northwestern Health determinants that influence the Unit (NWHU) and Waasegiizhig Nanaan- KCA Draft Public Health health of an individual. dawe’iyewigamig Health Access Centre Implementation Framework (WNHAC). What factors influence health? Delivering services locally will increase the potential for strength and capacity building within each community, and The Public Health Agency of improve availability, accessibility, and comprehensiveness of services. Canada identifies 12 social We will design our public health programming with incorporation of determinants of health: Anishinaabe beliefs, traditions, and values. Communities will define what they feel are the health priorities of their communities, and how they feel Income/social status their public health services could be improved. Social support networks Education and literacy KEY POINTS Employment/working conditions  Community engagement session held in March 2016 with community Social environments representatives & other key stakeholders Physical environments Personal health practices  Current gaps & future priorities identified re: public health service & coping skills delivery Healthy child development  KCA Public Health Service Coordinator hired to facilitate future steps Biology and genetic endowment  Partnerships with & support from NWHU & WNHAC Health services Gender FUTURE OBJECTIVES Culture  Strengthen partnerships with local health organizations & stake- Broader determinants of holders health for First Nations peoples  Map out current public health services, identify needs & assets of cur- include: rent service provision, incorporate findings into new program design Colonization Cultural continuity  Implement Alternate Service Delivery Model Globalization Territory  Transition to KCA authority for public health services, including public Migration Poverty health Nursing Supervision, Environmental Health, legal agreements Access Self-determination  Develop & populate evaluation framework

18 Research on Tobacco Reduction

A partnership between KCA, Ontario Tobacco Research Unit, Cancer Care Ontario, the University of Toronto and Well Living House at St Michael’s hospital (Toronto).

PURPOSE OF PROJECT

 To identify initiatives effective in reducing non-traditional tobacco use internationally PROJECT ACTIVITIES  Share tobacco reduction strategy information among Indigenous people across Canada Community-based research /focus groups conducted in Ochiichagwe'Babigo'Ining and Northwest Angle 33  Support the development and implementation of First Nations to: community based tobacco initiatives in its affiliated communities  Determine the extent and patterns of commercial (non-traditional) tobacco use  Develop initiatives to reduce consumption in the communities

PROJECT OUTCOMES

 KCA staff, with the support of Theresa Jamieson (Dalles), traditional tobacco was planted, grown and harvested as part of our community garden initiatives in Shoal Lake 40 & Naotkamegwanning RESEARCH FINDINGS  Traditional tobacco planting and harvesting re-establishes our traditional relationship with  Commercial tobacco use is high among community the plant as medicine members.  Community members begin to recognize  There are very limited resources to support efforts commercial tobacco as foreign to our traditional to quit. way of life and its production and use in non- ceremonial ways as harmful  Community members were particularly interested in having local, consistent education initiatives  Developed “Growing Traditional Tobacco” resource and access to quit supports.  The plan for 2016 is to expand this project to  Communities were also eager to increase knowl- Ochiichagwe'Babigo'Ining, Obashkaandagaang, edge and access to traditional, organically grown and Northwest Angle 33 tobacco for ceremonial purposes.

19 Mental Health & Addiction Services

The KCA Mental Health & Addictions Program MHA Service Model provides culturally safe and sensitive Mental Anishinaabe Sacred Teachings Health & Addictions (MHA) services. Respect  Love  Courage  Honesty  Wisdom  Humility  Truth Our program works with the communities resources to enhance and address mental health & addictions needs.

The program operates within a Case Management Model that respects the values and beliefs of the client. The Care Plan can utilize a Bi-Cultural approach that can be both/or either “Clinical or Traditional forms of Healing”. Services Case Management MHA program staff provide referrals to  Culturally Based  Referral  Case Management specialized services, assessment, development  Intake  Counselling  Assessment of Individualized Care Plans, counselling and  Workshops / Presentations  Care Planning advocacy. MHA provides community service  Crisis Response  Closure through awareness and education which promote holistic well-being and build capacity. Anishinaabe Rights of Child (L.W. Jourdain)

Services are provided in a manner that  Identity - Anishinabewin Ancestral Land - Akiin maintains the person’s right to choose. MHA  Name - Wiiinzowin Ancestral Waters - Nibi * recognizes individuals needs and values as well  Clan - Dodem Way of Life - Kiitishtowenaan  Family - Doodeg Education - Gii Kinooamaagewin as their personal strengths and abilities. Staff  Cultural/Ceremonial Ways - Protection within the Family perform advocate services for clients rights. Miinagoziiwin Shawendowsoowin The program respects cultural, spiritual beliefs  Language - Anishinabemowin Protection within & outside of Nation - Ganawenindiwin* and the traditional practices of the individual and  Purpose in Life - Biimatiziiwin *added 2015 S. Copenace family.

Mental Health & Addictions Clients Served April 1, 2015 - March 31, 2016

20 Children & Youth Mental Health Program

Our services are provided to help young people (0-18) understand and take control of life concerns and challenges by providing children and families with information, advice and support to help achieve a meaningful life with their own community through holistic and cultural services. Program staff work collaboratively with local service providers in Grassy Narrows, Wabaseemoong, Shoal Lake 40, Wauzhushk Onigum First Nations and at St. Thomas Aquinas and Beaver Brae Secondary School.

At present, Kenora Chiefs Advisory is only funded to provide Children's Mental Health for these First Nations.

Youth in Transition Program

Supporting and assisting Aboriginal youth to transition from the Child Welfare System into adulthood. The Youth in Transition Program provided services to Youth between the ages of 16-24 who were either a crown ward or in a customary care agreement and are in or from one of the 8 eligible communities served by Kenora Chiefs Advisory. The Youth in Transition worker works with youth (individually or in a group) on where they are at in life. We work with youth to identify their individual needs and goals they would like to achieve.

The YIT program will extend non-financial supports, and the duration and time spent with the youth depends on the youth’s commitment to the program and ability and readiness to be on their own. Through encouragement, acknowl- edgement and a safe and accepting space, the program aims to help youth develop necessary life skills, feel accepted and valued on their transitioning journey. Connections will be made to educational, employment, housing, mental health, and other supports within their communities.

Anyone can make a referral to the program: agencies, family member, friend, even the youth themselves.

Youth in Transition Admissions April 1, 2015 - March 31, 2016

21 Bii-Zin-Da-De-Dah Prevention Program

The ultimate goal of the Bii-Zin-Da-De-Dah Prevention Program is to promote the mental health and well-being of Anishinaabe youth and families. We plan to use the traditional teachings of our Anishinaabe Elders and ancestors as tools toward our goals. It is our belief that traditional culture offers healthy alternatives to unhealthy behaviors, ideals, morals, values, and knowledge.

Although Indigenous people have been exposed to many unhealthy behaviors and social contexts that have taken tolls on well-being, the strength and resilience of individuals and communities can help foster good ways of life. Throughout this program we will talk about Minobimaadiziwin “A Good Way of Life” and what that means to Anishinaabe people. We will assist program participants to discover and strengthen their cultural identities and to promote community wellness through the teachings and practices of traditional Anishinaabe ways.

It is also our belief that we cannot promote the mental health and well-being of youth without working with the family as a whole. Often during the program, parents and children will meet separately so the adults can talk about parenting. Raising kids can be difficult, but is also very rewarding. Throughout the program, we will bring together various aspects of Anishinaabe culture and current North American culture, in order to create balance and the best outcomes for our youth, families, and communities.

Pre-Arrest Diversion Program

16+ for Mental Health 12+ for Addictions & Pre-arrest

Working to reduce the probability of contact with the legal system for those living with mental illness or addiction. Service delivery is based on the Case Management Model with an emphasis on illness stabilization & management, life skills, development, building social and family support systems, education and advocacy. Our goal is to work alongside local service providers so that together we can assist and support each other in making a greater positive impact in the community.

Affiliated First Nation Communities: Ochiichagwe'Babigo'Ining, Obashkaandagaang, Northwest Angle #37, Northwest Angle #33, Wauzhushk Onigum Nation, Grassy Narrows, Wabaseemoong, Shoal Lake #40, Naotkamegwanning, Wabauskang, Eagle Lake, Wabigoon, Lac Seul

22 MHA Workshops & Presentations

In the past fiscal year, we provided 149 workshops and presentations at the request of the communities. These do not include staff attendance at other various community events i.e. Public Health Days.

These presentations are usually for a day or less. The following are the presentation topics we have done in various communities:

23 Mental Health & Addiction - Crisis Calls

Contact time varies from a few hours to a couple of days, weeks or longer. Depending on Counselling, Debriefing, 3 Top Reasons Community Linkage, Group Activities, the needs of the for Crisis Calls Community and Individual.

 Suicide attempt or completed This information does not reflect all the additional hours of Indirect follow-up, Case Conferences, Third Party Consul-  Self Harm tation, Community Linkage, Community Activities, Group  Death in the Community preparation, Meetings, Treatment Planning and Travel. These are the reported crisis occurrences to KCA, there are other crisis occurrences that may go unreported to KCA and are reported directly to Treaty 3 Police.

Crisis Calls Received Service Providers April 1, 2015 - March 31, 2016  Child and Family Services  Firefly  Treaty 3 Police  OPP  Community Workers  Community Activator  Prevention  First Responders  Schools

24 Wiisokodaadig Peer Helpers Program

MISSION Our mission is to empower approximately 60 youth per year with decision-making, communication and personal asset-building skills and knowledge to become confident Wiisokodaadig Peer Helpers. VISION Our vision is an Anishinaabe Nation where peer helping exists as a friend- ship, support, mediation, conflict resolution and assistance with problem solving. GOAL Our goal is to build community capacity by providing peer support training to youth.

PROGRAM SERVICES The WP targets youth between the ages of 12 and 24 years. The mandated area is the 13 communities, which the Kenora Chiefs Advisory (KCA) Mental Health & Addictions Program (MHA) serves. This program utilizes a holistic approach by incorporating culture and traditions into the curriculum through Elders, teachings and ceremonies. The youth learn more about their identity, culture, and what it means to be a Wiisokodaadig Peer Helper. Funding is provided by Save the Children Canada and Health Canada, with whom KCA has established a positive and strong working relationship.

Wiisokodaadig Regional Training Participants # of Wiisokodaadig Program Participants Location Males Females Participants Graduates Wabaseemoong 7 6 13 8 Lac Seul 14 15 29 15 Total 21 21 42 23 School Visits (Introducing the Program & Working Through Some Level 1 Modules)

Number of Schools 6 Number of Students 170 Total Number of Participants for the Wiisokodaadig Program 212 Total Number of Graduates for the Wiisokodaadig Program 23

25 Jays Care Foundation and Right To Play team up with First Nations communities for youth baseball tournament Beyond the Ballpark 2015 to bring Indigenous children and youth together in Kenora, Ontario to experience the power of play

From Saturday, August 8th to Sunday, August 9th, Jays Care Foundation, in partnership with Right To Play, the City of Kenora and the Kenora Chiefs Advisory will host Beyond the Ball- park 2015—a fun baseball tournament that will bring together children and youth from Right To Play-partner and other northern communities to participate in a tournament aimed at meeting new people and developing self-confidence and leadership skills through the sport of baseball.

Beyond the Ballpark 2015 will be the culmination of a summer of baseball programs run by Indigenous communities in Ontario and , which started in May at the Right To Play Promoting Life-skills in Aboriginal Youth (PLAY) program annual summer training session, funded by the Ontario Ministry of Children and Youth Services.

Bringing together staff from PLAY program partner communities and representatives from other northern communities, Right To Play led the weeklong training session in Thunder Bay, which featured a new Baseball League coach-training component led by Jays Care Foundation and Right To Play. Communities that committed to running a summer baseball league also received baseball equipment and programming materials to support their activities. Beyond the Ballpark 2015 will be a celebration of their efforts and accomplishments.

“We are excited and honoured to have been invited to Kenora to celebrate First Nations youth and facilitators who have been playing baseball all summer long,” said Robert Witchel, Executive Director, Jays Care Foundation. “As Canada’s team, we are privileged to go beyond the ballpark by bringing these communities together tocelebrate their achievements. This weekend will encourage youth to demonstrate leadership, to understand the benefits and joy of being physically active, to interact with their peers from surrounding nations and to follow their dreams.”

“Sport is an incredibly powerful tool for reaching youth and engaging them in their education and development, which is why we are so proud to be working with Jays Care Foundation to bring the joy of baseball to children in the PLAY program and other communities,” said Lori Smith, National Director, Right To Play Canada. “Last year the PLAY program reached more than 3,700 Indigenous children and youth in regular programming, and central to its success is community partnership. We are very proud and grateful to have the support, involvement and enthusiasm of the City of Kenora, the Kenora Chiefs Advisory and all participating communities for this event.”

“This initiative will provide our youth with an opportunity to build relationships while learning important life skills,” said Joe Barnes, Executive Director, Kenora Chiefs Advisory. “Building resilience and confidence of our youth is a priority for the Kenora Chiefs Advisory. We have already seen positive results from the Kenora Chiefs Advisory Peer Helpers Program which provides peer support training for youth to build their self-confidence and reach out to those at risk. The Kenora Chiefs Advisory are grateful for this opportunity to work with Right To Play and Jays Care Foundation on this important initiative and look forward to our continuing partnership.”Being the hub community for over 10 First Nations communities located in close proximity to Kenora, this is a fantastic opportunity for the youth from these communities to participate in a great event and hosting it right here in Kenora provides an opportunity for the youth to join together in a fun yet educational way,” says Mayor Dave Canfield. “Participation in sport and recreation in our youth today is essential in developing strong and committed leaders and we believe that this event will be a fantastic opportunity for these youth to see that working together builds a winning team.”

26 FINANCIALS

Revenue By Source

Expenses By Category

27 Partnerships in a Glance  AD Morrison & Associates LTD  Nechee Friendship Centre  Association of Iroquois and Allied  Ontario Native Welfare Administrator’s Indians Association  City of Kenora  Ontario Native Women’s Association  City of Sioux Narrows  Right To Play  Firefly  Save the Children  Kenora Association for Community  Seven Generations Education Institute Living  Shooniyaa Wa-Biitong  Jail  Independent First Nations  Lake of the Woods District Hospital  Union of Ontario Indians  Lakehead University  University of Toronto  L.E.A.P  Ve’ahavta  Metis Nation of Ontario  Women’s Place Kenora

We recognize that there are many more partnerships in the form of organizations, programs and people that have been not listed. We thank all those we have worked with in the past year, and we look forward to working with you in the future. Miigwetch!

OGIMAAWABIITONG - Kenora Chiefs Advisory PO BOX 349 Phone: 807-467-8144 Kenora, ON P9N 3X4 Fax: 807-467-2656 240 Veterans Drive www.kenorachiefs.ca 2828