Experience
Social Change Solutions has over 11 years experience working with Indigenous communities.
Here is some of our past work in communities across Canada.
Social Research, Needs Assessments, Feasibility Studies
Nishnawbe-Gamik Friendship Centre, Sioux Lookout, Ontario
'Community Plan to Address Homelessness'
'A Sociological Analysis of Aboriginal Homelessness'
(Outcomes: Sioux Lookout's first ever Transitional Support Program and consistent emergency shelter services, Nishnawbe-Gamik Friendship Centre, Sioux Lookout Anti-Racism Committee)
'Alternative School Feasibility Study'
(Outcome: 'Aboriginal Alternative Education Program' at Queen Elizabeth District High School, Area Aboriginal Management Board)
'Interim Report on Aboriginal Homelessness and Recommendations for Action'
(Outcome: Community engagement of all key stakeholders to move forward with a community action plan)
Other
'Bridges of Understanding, A Report on Race Relations'
(Outcome: Community education and cultural awareness program to address racism)
Working with BC First Nations Health Authority's Research, Knowledge Exchange and Evaluation Department (Vancouver): Analysis of Health Director surveys and breakout session responses to report on wellness indicators across regions.
(Outcome: Used to improve health and cancer care, and wellness programs in BC First Nations)
Social Program Planning
Sioux Lookout
Sioux Lookout Homelessness Initiative, worked with Municipal and First Nations leaders and service organizations to address issues of disproportionate numbers of Indigenous persons on the streets.
(Outcome: Transitional support program, transitional supportive housing, enhanced food bank services, and consistent shelter services)
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Sioux Lookout Ontario (chapter to Dryden, Ont)
'Addressing the Needs of First Nations Clients, A Facilitator's Guide'
Assisted Sioux Lookout Anti-Racism Committee with the design of workshops to assist businesses in cultural-sensitivity
Equay-Wuk Women's Group, Sioux Lookout, Ontario
Assisted to design and deliver a course on empowering women of domestic violence
Assisted with the development of Positive Parenting Program Kit for First Nations Communities
Assisted with the program Educating and Empowering Nishnawbe Women on Self Government Initiative; also assisting with the Electoral Officer's Guide to encourage and support First Nations voters
Other
Programs Manager at Sunset Women's Aboriginal Circle and at Nishnawbe-Gamik Friendship Centre. Evaluated life skills, community wellness, and Aboriginal education high-school programs for measures of success and positive outcomes
Successful funding proposals submitted to:
Kenora District Services Boards (to secure ongoing support for management of shelter, food bank, soup kitchen, and transitional support services)
Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres (to address needs of homeless and secure capital funds)
Aboriginal Healing Foundation (to assist to develop a parenting program)
Funding proposals for First Nations Youth Leadership, Aboriginal education, parenting, community wellness, and women's and life skills programs