Legal Representation

We work primarily with First Nations and their First Nations Representative Services Program to support the First Nation’s rights and goals within the child welfare system, while also ensuring that their member children and youth remain connected to their culture, language and traditions even in the face of child welfare involvement. With expertise in the Child Youth and Family Services Act, and An Act respecting First Nation, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families, we have experience in facilitating the least disruptive options for families, including customary care, kinship placements, and creative custody arrangements.

We strive to minimize, to the degree possible, the stress and disruption to families dealing with the Children’s Aid Society. We firmly believe that families need and deserve strong and effective representation at every step of a child protection proceeding.

Funding Assistance

We understand that navigating the complexities of funding applications and requirements can be daunting. Our team of experts is here to guide you through the process and ensure that you have the resources you need to support your child welfare programs and services.

Our Funding Assistance Services Include:

• Identifying Funding Opportunities: We stay up-to-date on the latest funding orders from the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal, helping you identify the best fit for your community’s needs.
• Application Support: We provide comprehensive support throughout the application process, from preparing documents to meeting deadlines and ensuring compliance with requirements.
• Budget Development: We work with you to develop detailed budgets that align with your program goals and funding guidelines.
• Financial Management: We offer ongoing financial management support to ensure your funding is used effectively and efficiently.
• Reporting and Compliance: We assist with preparing reports and ensuring compliance with funding agreements.

Our goal is to empower your community to access the funding it needs to create and sustain effective child welfare programs that reflect your cultural values and priorities.

Strategic Planning

We believe that a well-defined strategic plan is essential for achieving your child welfare goals. Our team works collaboratively with your community to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses your unique challenges and opportunities.

Our Strategic Planning Services Include:

• Needs Assessment: We conduct a thorough assessment of your community’s child welfare needs, taking into account cultural, social, and economic factors.
• Goal Setting: We work with you to set clear, measurable goals that align with your community’s values and priorities.
• Program Development: We help you design and implement effective child welfare programs and services that address the identified needs and ensure that agencies are accountable to the Nation, as required by law.
• Evaluation and Monitoring: We establish evaluation and monitoring systems to track progress, measure impact, and ensure accountability.
• Capacity Building: We provide training and support to build the capacity of your community to implement and sustain your child welfare plan.

Our strategic planning process is designed to be inclusive, participatory, and culturally relevant. We believe that by working together, we can create a plan that empowers your community to protect its children and strengthen its future.

Band Representative Training

Band Representatives play a crucial role in advocating for the best interests of children and families involved in the child welfare system. Our training program equips Band Representatives with the knowledge and skills they need to effectively navigate this complex system.

Our Band Representative Training Covers:

• Child Welfare Law and Policy: We provide a comprehensive overview of relevant laws and policies, including the Child, Youth and Family Services Act (CYFSA) and customary care agreements.
• Roles and Responsibilities: We clarify the roles and responsibilities of Band Representatives in child protection cases, including their advocacy and support functions.
• Case Management: We offer practical guidance on case management, including interviewing, documentation, and communication with agencies and other stakeholders.
• Cultural Considerations: We emphasize the importance of cultural sensitivity and understanding in working with Indigenous children and families.
• Advocacy Skills: We provide training on effective advocacy techniques, including negotiation, mediation, and representation in court.

Our training is designed to be interactive, engaging, and tailored to the specific needs of your community. We offer both in-person and online training options to ensure accessibility for all Band Representatives.

Policy and Law Development

We recognize that First Nations have the inherent right to develop their own laws and policies that reflect their cultural values and traditions. Our team can assist your community in developing and implementing culturally relevant child welfare laws.

Our Law Development Services Include:

• Legal Research and Analysis: We conduct comprehensive research and analysis of existing laws and policies, identifying areas for improvement and potential conflicts with Indigenous law.
• Drafting Legislation: We work with your community to draft new laws and policies that uphold Indigenous rights and promote the well-being of children and families.
• Community Consultation: We facilitate community consultations to ensure that your laws and policies reflect the collective will and wisdom of your people.
• Implementation Support: We provide guidance and support in implementing your new laws and policies, including training for staff and community members.
• Advocacy and Representation: We advocate for your community’s right to self-determination in child welfare matters and represent your interests in legal proceedings.

Our goal is to empower your community to exercise its inherent jurisdiction and create a child welfare system that is grounded in your cultural values and traditions.

Our training is designed to be interactive, engaging, and tailored to the specific needs of your community. We offer both in-person and online training options to ensure accessibility for all Band Representatives.