First Nations Public Service Secretariat

3 weeks ago

FNPSS was invited to attend the grand opening of Upper Similkameen Indian Band's, Chuchuwayha Community Hall. The event was attended by approximately 100 people from the First Nation and neighbouring communities, and included drumming, singing, the sharing of memories from community members, and words from the First Nations Elders.

Chuchuwayha Community Hall was originally built in 1905, serving as a gathering space for the local community. Unfortunately, the building required significant restoration and was not in use for almost 20 years, leaving the First Nation with no space to gather, celebrate, and offer their youth in community education. The hall long served as the centrepiece of community events, dances, and gatherings. Restoration of the community hall will allow Upper Similkameen Indian Band to run child and youth programs, including after-school care and summer camps, provide training and education on traditional practices, and host all community members in one gathering space.

FNPSS supported the restoration project through our First Nations Well Being Fund. This funding was used to construct an outdoor kitchen and to create a Community Well Being Plan. The kitchen will serve as a gathering place where members can learn about traditional food gathering, preparation, and preservation to build food sovereignty in Upper Similkameen. Alongside this kitchen, funding was used to plan programming for the rebuilt community hall – including care for children and youth, strengthening community ties, and building knowledge of Upper Similkameen’s culture. Additional funding was provided by the Government of Canada, Province of British Columbia, Indigenous Services Canada, Greyback Construction, P&E Lumber, Heritageworks, McGinn Engineering & Preservation, and T.L Timber. ... See MoreSee Less

First Nations Public Service Secretariat

4 weeks ago

We are thrilled to congratulate Howard Grant, Executive Director of the First Nations Summit, on his appointment to the Order of British Columbia. This prestigious recognition honors his remarkable efforts in bridging cultures and advancing Indigenous rights over more than 26 years of leadership and dedication.

Howard's unwavering commitment to strengthening the First Nations public service, building capacity in First Nation governments in BC, accessing resources, and supporting institutions such as FNPSS has been instrumental in fostering positive change for First Nations. We are delighted to see his invaluable contributions recognized!

Musqueam Band
Government of British Columbia ... See MoreSee Less

First Nations Public Service Secretariat

1 month ago

Teamwork in action! Our team had an incredible time connecting and strategizing at our recent team-building event. The activities brought us closer and sparked new ideas for supporting capacity building in BC First Nations.

A big thank you to takayatours for the unforgettable tour! ... See MoreSee Less