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Welcome to the August 2024 edition of the SFNS
bi-monthly eNewsletter!
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General Information
Administration
- New Staff
- Trusted Source Announcement
- Upcoming Annual Golf Tournament
- Become a Golf Tournament Sponsor
- July's Program Sessions
Employment & Training
Post-Secondary Support
- Need to Update Your Phone Number?
- Summer Student Grades Submission
- Funding & Application Deadlines
- Alternative Financial Aid
- Withdraw From Your Program?
- Who Is My Counsellor?
LDCC First Nation Health Policy
- Munsee-Delaware Interview
- Oneida Nation of the Thames Interview
Economic & Capacity Development
- New Website
- Non-Violent Crisis Intervention
- CCIB/EY Pitch Competition 2024
- Business Reconciliation Survey
- COO Business Directory
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cont'
- Canva Workshop
- FNAFO Beginning Farmer Program
- COO Grands Tracker
- Financial Literacy Workshop
Technical Services
- What We Do
- Oneida Housing Coordination Meeting
- Home Maintenance - Crawl Spaces
- Tech Nations 2024 Event
- Water Stewardship Survey
News & Notices
- ABC News Article
- Anishinabek News Article
- CBC News Article
- SAVE Mobile Plans
- SOAHAC Client Questionnaire
- Caldwell First Nation Cultural Day
- KSPFN Water Claim
- COO Special Chiefs Assembly
- Oneida Language
- Candian Dental Care Plan
- Windsor Regional Hospital Survey
- Aamjiwnaang Gwetaadaawe Market
- Tecumseh HR Workshop
- Free Courses - North Nord
- Missing Children Phase 3
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General Information
Please be advised that the SFNS office will be closed on the following days:
Labour Day - Monday, September 2, 2024
National Truth & Reconciliation Day - Monday, September 30, 2024
Regular office hours will resume the next business day at 8:30 am.
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Welcome to the SFNS Team! | |
Ravynne Rich, Trusted Source Coordinator
Hi! My name is Ravynne Rich (Noah) and I am from Eelünaapéewi Lahkéewiit (Delaware Nation – Moravian of the Thames). I am the Trusted Source Coordinator at SFNS. I am an only child with an amazing family of 19 cousins, 5 aunts, and the coolest mom. I am a dog mom with 6 spoiled babies who are my world. I have 2 college diplomas in photography and electrical techniques, but I love exploring many different things. My hobbies include traveling (with my dogs), spending time with my 2 goats and chickens, sewing, beading, cooking, and shopping. I am super excited to be not only connected to my community but to be able to travel to other communities and meet new people. I look forward to creating your Secured Certificate of Indian Status!
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Shawnah Albert, Mentored Administrative Assistant
My name is Shawnah Albert and I am from Deshkhan Ziibiing (Chippewas of the Thames First Nation). I am excited to be joining the SFNS team in the Mentored Administrative Assistant position. In this position, I will be assisting with the daily administrative duties and tasks under the direct supervision of the Executive Administrator. I love spending time with my dog, and I enjoy staying active by playing sports all year round. I currently play slo-pitch on a women’s and a co-ed team, but my favourite season is hockey season. I am grateful to not only still play the game, but to also play in a women’s league that is competitive and fast-paced. In addition to hockey, I play in a women’s indoor soccer league during the winter months as well.
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Mya Summers, Administrative Assistant (Summer Student)
My name is Mya Summers, I am 15 years old and I am from Eelünaapéewi Lahkéewiit (Delaware Nation – Moravian of the Thames). I am in the role of Administrative Assistant (Summer Student) this summer with the Southern First Nations Secretariat. I am going into grade 11 in the fall and when I’m not in school I like to play hockey, golf, baseball, and basketball. When I graduate I am looking forward to going into kinesiology.
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SFNS is proud to announce the partnership with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) on a Trusted Source Program. The Trusted Source program will:
- Support the understanding of applicants relating to registration, and Secure Certificates of Indian Status (SCIS); and
- Facilitate SCIS applications for already registered individuals.
- At this time, SFNS does not support new registrations under the Indian Act and will be referring individuals to their respective Membership departments.
What we offer
SFNS will support you with:
- Filling out the SCIS application;
- Copying and verifying your documents, negating the need for a guarantor;
- Taking your photograph on-site, following the guidelines for an approved photo; and
- Submitting your application directly to ISC on your behalf.
There are three ways to get your SCIS:
- We will be hosting at least one mega clinic in each of our member First Nations throughout the year. Please watch for more information!
- Book an appointment at the SFNS office. Our preferred method of booking is through our online booking system: https://calendly.com/trustedsource-sfns/in-office-scis-appointments. However, you may also reach out directly to the Trusted Source Coordinator.
- Book an in-person appointment at your local First Nation office. SFNS will be onsite once per month or as requested by the First Nation. Stay tuned for more information!
You can find more information on our website. Should you have any questions about any of the information above, please do not hesitate to contact:
Ravynne Rich, Trusted Source Coordinator
Office: 519-692-5868 ext 243
Mobile: 226-219-6864
Email: trustedsource@sfns.on.ca
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For more information, visit the LDCC 5th Annual Golf Tournament webpage by clicking the button below: | | |
If you are interested in learning more about the LDCC 5th Annual Golf Tournament sponsorship packages, please visit our website by clicking the button below: | | |
info:HR – Regional Information Session
July 23, 2024
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SFNS partnered with info:HR Software to provide a regional information session to senior Administrators and Human Resources personnel of our member First Nations. The one-hour session was conducted virtually on Zoom and recorded to allow opportunity for those who were unable to attend to view the presentation and to allow participants to share the information with their respective staff. A total of nine participants joined the online session which reviewed the general purposes of the web-based Human Resource Information System (HRIS). Michelle Beasley from info:HR facilitated a live demonstration of the software which included a perspective from the administrator, manager, and employee side. Participants reviewed the software’s many capabilities such as:
- Core HR Admin Module;
- ESS Module; and
- Timesheet Module
Participants were very engaged and asked a lot of great questions. They heard firsthand experience of using the software from Jennifer Whiteye, SFNS Executive Director, and Annette George, SFNS Finance Administrator. SFNS has been utilizing the software since April 2019. Overall, SFNS’ experience with info:HR has been successful and welcomes any further questions or inquiries.
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Networking Events - Delaware Nation
July 25, 2024
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The SFNS staff were delighted to once again resume networking events in our member First Nations. Prior to the pandemic, you may recall SFNS hosting barbeques within your community during the summer months. SFNS kicked off our first event in Eelünaapéewi Lahkéewiit (Delaware Nation – Moravian of the Thames) on July 25, 2024. The networking event saw a total of 27 First Nation staff join us in front of the Administration Office where they got to meet SFNS Managers and students, participate in networking bingo, grab some swag, and enjoy a delicious lunch.
We look forward to hosting our next networking events in August in Munsee-Delaware Nation and Oneida Nation of the Thames. With summer months being a hectic time for everyone we plan to visit our other member First Nations in the summer of 2025.
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The Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) Program is designed to help Indigenous people improve their skills and find employment.
ISETP offers seven programs to assist clients:
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For more information on the LDCC ISETP Department, please contact Janice Noah, Director at ext. 222.
Click here to learn more about ISETP
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Free Resources
We have created some resources for you. The resources include:
- Resume Template
- Cover Letter Template
- Job Interview Prep Questions
- & More
Get your own copy from our Google Drive
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Need To Update Your Number?
Has your phone number or email address changed? Remember to update your contact information with the Post-Secondary department so you don’t miss any important reminders or updates about funding opportunities and deadlines.
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Summer Student Grade Submission
Summer 2024 students: remember to upload your final grades within 21 days of the end of the term. Students who do not submit grades and students who do not successfully complete their term may not be eligible for ongoing funding.
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Funding & Application Deadlines
Applications for Fall 2024 are now closed. Our PSSSP budgets are fully expended.
If you would like to be considered for an upcoming term of study, please apply before the deadline, and remember to re-apply EVERY YEAR for all terms for which you will require funding.
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Alternative Financial Aid
PSSSP funding is not intended to be an exhaustive source of income. Students may benefit from seeking other sources of money such as scholarships, bursaries, grants, student loans, or part-time employment.
Below are some options:
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Scholarships, Bursaries, Grants, & Awards | | |
Make sure to check with your institution's financial aid for additional opportunities. | |
You can also apply through a participating and eligible bank for a loan or student line of credit. | |
You can also check your institution's job board. | |
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Withdrawing From Your Program
If you withdraw, drop-out, or decide not to complete your studies…that’s ok! We all experience challenges and fully understand that life gets in the way sometimes. If you withdraw, drop-out, need to drop classes, or otherwise decide not to attend school, please let us know so we can support you through the process and prevent you from owing any funds back to SFNS.
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We are proud of your success as a student and would love to share your story in our eNewsletter! | |
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Book receipts can be mailed to:
Southern First Nations Secretariat
Post-Secondary Department
22361 Austin Line
Bothwell, ON N0P 1C0
Electronic receipts can be forwarded to your Post-Secondary Counsellor.
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LDCC First Nations Health Policy | | |
Economic & Capacity Development | | | |
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CCIB/EY Indigenous Entrepreneur Pitch Competition 2024
CCIB and EY aims to support high-growth potential Indigenous entrepreneurs in crafting and crystallizing their storytelling around their businesses’ unique value to answer specific customer needs.
Deadline: Wednesday, August 7th, 2024 @ midnight.
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Business Reconciliation-First Employ Survey | |
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We are reaching out to you to participate in a survey aimed at bridging the reconciliation gap in procurement and employment practices.
Click the button below to start the survey.
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Chiefs of Ontario Business Directory
For more information, click the link below:
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FREE Intro to Canva Workshop with Strawberry Seed Designs, Keely Thompson-Cook
Unlock your creativity and design prowess with our Intro Canva Workshop. Whether you’re a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of graphic design or someone seeking to enhance their skills, this workshop is tailored just for you.
What to Expect: Introduction to Canva: Dive into the basics of Canva, a user-friendly graphic design platform that empowers you to create stunning visuals effortlessly. Learn about its interface, tools, and functionalities.
When: August 14th at 6:00 PM ET
Click the button below to register!
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FNAFO Beginning Farmer Program
The Beginning Farmer Program (BFP) is a multi-year program designed to support new beginning First Nations farmers between the ages of 16 and 40 through all stages of farm business startup. BFP supports the creation, development, and investment in the new farm businesses.
The program has two distinct areas of focus:
- Workshops and Training
- Start-Up Financing
From business planning to implementation, participants will be supported by mentors and First Nations Agriculture & Finance staff regularly providing help and guidance including farm visits.
Deadline to Apply: August 30, 2024
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The Chiefs of Ontario Economic Development Sector has recently updated their grant-tracker which includes over 30 funding opportunities for First Nations! | |
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Investment Basics 101: An Introduction to Balanced Portfolios is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the key components and strategies involved in investing.
This workshop covers the essentials of stocks, bonds, and other investment vehicles, explaining how they work and how they can be utilized to achieve your financial objectives. You'll learn about the importance of asset allocation and diversification, how to balance risk and return, and the best practices for building and managing a balanced portfolio.
Click the button below to register.
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Technical Services Department provides assistance in the following areas:
- Housing Inspection - CMHC certified inspections through all phases of construction.
- Computer-Aided Design - offer GIS and AutoCAD conceptual design services.
- Capital Project Assistance - assistance for projects that enhance critical infrastructure.
- Training - opportunities to increase capacity among First Nation staff.
- Reporting - assistance provided with annual reporting related to housing and infrastructure.
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If you have any questions, please get in touch with Tim Maness, Technical Services Manager (tmaness@sfns.on.ca). | |
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Oneida Housing Coordination Meeting
On July 24th Technical Services staff participated in a Housing Coordinator meeting hosted by Oneida Nation of the Thames. The meeting was well attended as Oneida hosted a productive and informative meeting.
Some of the great information shared at the meeting included the SFNS inspection process, strategic planning for housing, updates on CMHC programs, and a presentation from the Environmental Health Officer on septic system operation and maintenance.
Following the success of the SFNS-hosted meeting in April, SFNS communities agreed to alternate host quarterly housing meetings with Caldwell First Nation slated to host the next meeting in October.
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For more information or to register, click the button below: | |
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If you are a First Nations leader, technician or community member who works on marine or freshwater protection or conservation, please complete the Assembly of First Nations' survey.
You will help build an understanding of marine and freshwater stewardship, governance, priorities and capacities from a First Nations perspective.
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Museums Closed Native American Exhibits 6 Months Ago. Tribes Are Still Waiting To Get Items Back | |
NEW YORK — Tucked within the expansive Native American halls of the American Museum of Natural History is a diminutive wooden doll that holds a sacred place among the tribes whose territories once included Manhattan.
For more than six months now, the ceremonial Ohtas, or Doll Being, has been hidden from view after the museum and others nationally took dramatic steps to board up or paper over exhibits in response to new federal rules requiring institutions to return sacred or culturally significant items to tribes — or at least to obtain consent to display or study them.
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Chippewas Of The Thames Chief Appointed New Member Of The Order Of Canada | |
CHIPPEWAS OF THE THAMES FIRST NATION — Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Chief Joe Miskokomon (Richard Kelly Miskokomon) was recently appointed as one of 64 new members of the Order of Canada by Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada. The Governor General’s office also announced the appointment of one companion, 16 officers, and two honourary officers on June 27.
“It’s a great honour,” Chief Miskokomon says, noting that other First Nations people were also recognized by the Governor General for their skills and contributions. “So I feel particularly honoured to be a part of that group of [Indigenous] people that has been recognized by the Governor General of Canada. And I hope that more of my people in the future will see that recognition and get that recognition for their contributions to not only our people but the country of Canada.”
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Indigenous Firefighters Share Knowledge, Training And Compete During Annual Gathering | |
Dozens of Indigenous firefighters from across the province were in Oneida Nation of the Thames this past week working to upgrade skills aimed at serving communities that are often rural and under serviced.
The three-day annual Ontario Native Firefighter's Society Conference brought people to the territory, located west of London, to not only learn but to discuss ongoing mutual challenges.
Retention and recruitment were important issues, as was access to safety equipment to prevent cancers known to impact firefighters. Another big theme was learning to make due with what's available.
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To learn more click the button below. | |
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SOAHAC wants to know more about your client experience and how to improve it.
Deadline: August 12, 2024
Click the button below to get started.
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Complete or start your claim today. For more information visit firstnationsdrinkingwater.ca. | |
For more information and to register, click the button below: | |
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Southern First Nations Secretariat
1-800-668-2609
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