ISC BC Region Updates – October 2024

ISC update october

The ISC BC Region Update is published by Indigenous Services Canada bi-monthly. It is intended to provide First Nations leadership and administrations with timely information that focuses on funding announcements, program, and service changes, as well as relevant initiatives from other federal departments, the provincial government and community partners. We welcome your feedback through the link at the bottom of this email.

Miss a previous edition of the ISC BC Region Update? Past editions can now be found on the First Nations Public Service Secretariat’s website.

In this issue:

Funding Opportunities from ISC
Upcoming Important Dates
Of Interest From ISC
Information From Government of Canada
Information From Our Partners
Contact Information
Resource Information
Comments, Suggestions, & Subscriptions

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES FROM ISC

National School Food Program

Budget 2024 announced the creation of a National School Food Program, providing $1 billion over 5 years (2024-25 to 2028-29) to implement and expand school food programs across Canada. ISC will be delivering $227 million nationally over the five years to First Nations to support students of all ages and grades who are ordinarily resident on reserve attending all types of schools.

First Nations will receive school food programming allocations based on their student enrollment reported through the nominal roll. First Nations have the flexibility to use this program funding as needed to support their unique education-related priorities. An email was sent to BC First Nations on September 19th with general information on the new program. Later this month, a detailed description of funding allocation, for the current fiscal year, will be attached to funding agreement amendments sent to each First Nation for approval.

For more information or questions about this funding, please reach out to the ISC BC Education Programs team at BCEducation@sac-isc.gc.ca

 

BC Region Program Guide

The 2024-25 BC Region Program Guide contains important program and funding information intended for the administrators and program managers of First Nations, Indigenous organizations, and ISC staff. For your convenience, it can be found on the Aboriginal Financial Officers Association of BC website: 2024-2025-BC-Region-Program-Guide-Revised-May-10.pdf (afoabc.org). For questions on the guide, please contact Funding Services at sac.bcfsadmins.isc@sac-isc.gc.ca who will gladly assist you.

UPCOMING IMPORTANT DATES

October 16 – 18, 2024

Assembly of First Nations - Special Chiefs Assembly on Long-Term Reform of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program

The Assembly of First Nations will host a Special Chiefs Assembly on the Long-Term Reform of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program from October 16-18, 2024, on Treaty No. 7 Territory, in Calgary, Alberta. The Special Chiefs Assembly will focus on discussions and decision making regarding the draft Final Agreement on the long-term reform of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program, where Chiefs and Proxies will have an opportunity to deliberate on and vote on the proposed reforms. This event was re-scheduled from September 2024 based on feedback during regional engagement sessions. The Special Chiefs Assembly will feature expert panels, presentations, and discussions related to the Draft Agreement on long-term reform. For more information, please visit the Assembly of First Nations’ event webpage.

Of Interest From ISC

First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle Settlement Agreement and Compensation

In anticipation of a winter 2024 launch of the claims process for the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle Settlement Agreement, in which the plaintiffs and Canada have agreed to a settlement that requires Canada to pay $23.3 billion in compensation, please refer to the information below to support any requests for information from class members, potential claimants, and the general public. While there are multiple sources relaying information about the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle Settlement, Deloitte LLP is the official resource as the court-appointed administrator responsible for providing information about the settlement. Deloitte’s responsibilities include but are not limited to providing claim filing support, processing claim intake, and validating claims. Deloitte’s contact information is included below and will assist in accessing the most current and accurate information on the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle Settlement.

Deloitte Website: First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle Class Action (fnchildclaims.ca)

Deloitte Toll-free phone: 1-833-852-0755 (Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm EST excluding statutory holidays)

Deloitte Email: fnchildclaims@deloitte.ca

see the full news release.

 

Emergency Management Funding & Resources

An Emergency Event Edition of the ISC BC Region Update was published in July. The information provided is still relevant and covers key topics such as:

  • Key contacts in emergency situations
  • Emergency Management Assistance Program
  • Emergency Management resources

 

In-person Service for Registration and Status Cards

ISC BC Region’s Registration and Status Card Service Counter at 1138 Melville Street in Vancouver welcomes walk-in clients from Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Appointments can also be made by calling 236-330-9961. For more information, please visit the ISC BC Region webpage.

 

Grants and Contribution Information Management Systems

Did you know First Nations can submit proposals and reporting submissions directly to ISC through the Grants and Contribution Information Management Systems (GCIMS), which is the recommended submission method for all non-education reports? GCIMS provides access to funding agreements for up-to-date financial information and reporting requirements. It can also be used to generate system reports for program and budget analysis. If you would like to receive access or training for GCIMS, please contact 1-800-665-9320 to find out who your Funding Services Officer is. Your Funding Services Officer can arrange GCIMS access and/or training.

Information from Government of Canada

Coming into force of legislation to establish the National Council for Reconciliation

The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, issued the following statement on July 2, 2024: “Today marks a significant milestone in our shared journey toward reconciliation as An Act to provide for the establishment of a national council for reconciliation comes into force. In our shared pursuit of truth and reconciliation, this Act will establish the National Council for Reconciliation. It is a direct response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Call to Action 53 and provides a basis for implementing Calls to Action 54 to 56. It will serve as a catalyst for innovative thought, dialogue, and action and will monitor, evaluate, and report on efforts to advance reconciliation, including implementation of the Calls to Action, at all levels of government and throughout Canada.” To read the full statement, please visit the statement release.

 

Seeking National Council For Reconciliation Board Of Directors

Are you a leader in reconciliation with well-developed relationships and networks in this area? Do you have experience on a national board of directors? Have you led successful community initiatives to advance reconciliation? Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to support reconciliation? The Transitional Committee and the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations are seeking diverse highly qualified candidates to serve on the first board of the National Council for Reconciliation.

Do you have the following qualifications?

  • Extensive experience advancing reconciliation efforts in Canada;
  • Strong existing networks and relationships in the area of reconciliation;
  • Experience on a national board of directors;
  • Experience related to the impacts of the realities and histories of Indigenous Peoples in Canada;

If you meet these criteria, this could be your opportunity to bring your skills, experience, and knowledge to the National Council for Reconciliation as a member of its Board of Directors.

Interested applicants can submit all the required documents by October 20, 2024:

Attention: National Council for Reconciliation Application

Reconciliation Secretariat at Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

Terrasses de la Chaudière

10 Wellington

Gatineau, QC K1A 0H4

 

To find out more about the required documents, eligibility criteria, and how to apply, visit: https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1726518716763/1726518750940?utm_campaign=rcaanc-cirnac-ncr-board-conseil-cnr-24-25&utm_medium=email&utm_source=contacts&utm_content=en

 

Third round of business recipients supported by the Indigenous Tourism Fund

In partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), the Government of Canada is rolling out the $10 million Indigenous Tourism Fund (ITF). Micro and Small Business Stream (MSBS) funding is available, providing direct financial support to Indigenous tourism enterprises. On August 12, 2024, the Government of Canada announced the third group of businesses to benefit from the MSBS. In this round, $1.01 million in federal funding, administered by ITAC, has been awarded to 41 Indigenous tourism businesses from across Canada. Applications for the Micro and Small Business Stream are now being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. All activities must be completed by March 31, 2025. To date, the MSBS has delivered approximately $4.6 million in support to 186 Indigenous tourism businesses. This stream is designed to help Indigenous businesses become business, market, and export ready and to ensure long-term sustainability. For more information, please visit the news release.

 

Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program

The Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) Program is now accepting applications until October 16, 2024, at 15:00 Eastern time. The program supports retrofits, repairs or upgrades of existing publicly-accessible community buildings and the construction of new publicly-accessible community buildings for underserved and high-needs communities. With this program, the Government of Canada is making investments to improve the availability and condition of community buildings, while also making the buildings more energy efficient, lower carbon, resilient, and high performing. For more information, visit the GICB website.

 

First Nations and the Government of Canada continue to strengthen partnership on climate action

On August 8, 2024, the First Nations-Canada Joint Committee on Climate Action (JCCA) released its sixth annual report to the Prime Minister and the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN). The Annual Report highlights the positive steps taken toward a building a stronger and more transparent climate partnership, one which includes meaningful opportunities for First Nations to influence the design of federal climate change programs and initiatives. It also highlights areas where further efforts are needed to guide and strengthen the JCCA’s future activities. The JCCA remains focused on accelerating First Nations’ full and effective participation in Canada’s clean growth and climate change programs, including the implementation of Canada’s National Adaptation Strategy. In a year marked by devastating floods, fires and smoke that severely impacted many First Nations across the country, the JCCA shared and discussed mitigation and adaptation priorities.

Information from our partners

Indigenous Financial Management Certificate: Fall 2024 Cohort

The Aboriginal Financial Officers Association BC (AFOA BC) is now accepting applications for its fourth Indigenous Financial Management Certificate Cohort. The program is intended for people working in a First Nation community or Indigenous organization who are looking to gain essential finance and accounting skills. It is comprised of seven courses and is the first step toward the Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager designation. In partnership with Langara College and AFOA Canada, AFOA BC is offering this cohort to bring together 20 students to work and learn together. The program will begin on November 18 and the deadline to apply is October 18. For more information or to register, please visit: https://afoabc.org/2024-fm-certificate/.

AFOA BC Audit Workshops

The Aboriginal Financial Officers Association of BC will be hosting the fiscal year 2024-2025 audit preparation workshops. Discussion will be focused on presentation requirements from the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants, Accounting best practices, presentation requirements of Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and First Nation Health Authority (FNHA.)

 

Dates are:

  • November 20, 2024 – Nanaimo
  • November 26, 2024 – Burnaby

Contact information

Executive Leadership Team

The contact information for our Executive Leadership Team is available below should you or your team need to reach out regarding specific programs or services within their respective areas.

 

For Residential Schools information and inquiries, you can contact the following:

Resource information

KUU-US First Nations and Aboriginal Crisis Line

1-800-KUU-US17 (1-800-588-8717)

Child/Youth: 250-723-2040

Adult/Elder: 250-723-4050

Hope for Wellness Help Line and Chat

1-855-242-3310 or www.hopeforwellness.ca

Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line

1-866-925-4419

Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Support Line

1-844-413-6649

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📢 Calling all First Nations administrators and senior managers!

Join our FREE & VIRTUAL Pre-Election Training for Administrators workshop!

📅 Dates: February 11-12, 2025
⏰ Time: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM PST

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📢 Calling all First Nations administrators and senior managers!

Join our FREE & VIRTUAL Pre-Election Training for Administrators workshop!

📅 Dates: February 11-12, 2025
⏰ Time: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM PST

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 #IndigenousAdmin #ElectionTraining #FirstNations

We’re thrilled to announce the upcoming 2025 Regional and Virtual Training Schedule! 📅 These sessions will offer a variety of workshops and courses tailored to meet the needs of First Nations leaders, administrators, and professionals. With a mix of in-person regional events and virtual learning opportunities, you can choose what works best for you!

Pre-Election Training for Administrators: February 11 - 12, 2025 (Virtual)

RIM Training Academy: April 2-3, 2025 (Virtual)

Policy Management Training Academy: April 29-May 1, 2025 (Virtual)

HR Management Training Academy: May 28-29, 2025 (In-Person, Vancouver)

Pre-Election Training for Leaders: Dates to be confirmed (In-Person, Prince George)

Post-Election Training for Leaders: Dates to be confirmed (In-Person, Prince George)

📢 Sign up now to receive notifications as soon as registration becomes available. Be the first to secure your spot and take advantage of these valuable learning experiences: landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/j1h3n9

Stay tuned for more details, including dates, locations, and topics. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth and connection! ✨

#FirstNationsTraining #AdministratorTraining #VirtualTraining
... See MoreSee Less

We’re thrilled to announce the upcoming 2025 Regional and Virtual Training Schedule! 📅 These sessions will offer a variety of workshops and courses tailored to meet the needs of First Nations leaders, administrators, and professionals. With a mix of in-person regional events and virtual learning opportunities, you can choose what works best for you! 

Pre-Election Training for Administrators: February 11 - 12, 2025 (Virtual)

RIM Training Academy: April 2-3, 2025 (Virtual)

Policy Management Training Academy: April 29-May 1, 2025 (Virtual)

HR Management Training Academy: May 28-29, 2025 (In-Person, Vancouver)

Pre-Election Training for Leaders: Dates to be confirmed (In-Person, Prince George)

Post-Election Training for Leaders: Dates to be confirmed (In-Person, Prince George)

📢 Sign up now to receive notifications as soon as registration becomes available. Be the first to secure your spot and take advantage of these valuable learning experiences: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/j1h3n9

Stay tuned for more details, including dates, locations, and topics. Let’s make 2025 a year of growth and connection! ✨

 #FirstNationsTraining #AdministratorTraining  #VirtualTraining

The First Nations Public Service Secretariat and the Local Government Management Association of British Columbia are pleased to announce that the 2024 BC First Nations Public Service Scholarship recipient is Michael Vegh.

Michael is a member of Heiltsuk First Nation and is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration in Sustainable Innovation.

On behalf of FNPSS, we would like to congratulate Michael and wish him every success for the future.

Next year’s BC First Nations Public Service Scholarship is accepting applications until October 15, 2025. To learn more and to apply: ow.ly/OZcc50UKKEa
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The First Nations Public Service Secretariat and the Local Government Management Association of British Columbia are pleased to announce that the 2024 BC First Nations Public Service Scholarship recipient is Michael Vegh.

Michael is a member of Heiltsuk First Nation and is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration in Sustainable Innovation.

On behalf of FNPSS, we would like to congratulate Michael and wish him every success for the future.

Next year’s BC First Nations Public Service Scholarship is accepting applications until October 15, 2025. To learn more and to apply: https://ow.ly/OZcc50UKKEa

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The Foundations of Professional Communications for First Nations (FAPC 100) course is back this January, offering practical training tailored for First Nations communicators. Learn about communication planning, social media strategies, and more—plus earn 3 university credits through the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT)!

Foundations of Professional Communications will be running from January 23 – March 20, 2025. The course will consist of weekly virtual sessions with four days of in-person learning (March 3–6) at NVIT’s Burnaby campus.

This course is offered at no-cost to participants.

Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your skills and make an impact in your community!

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➡️ Explore the 2024 Report: ow.ly/JSX050UEJur

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📢 Registration Now Open for 2025 Foundations of Professional Communications! 📢

The Foundations of Professional Communications for First Nations (FAPC 100) course is back this January, offering practical training tailored for First Nations communicators. Learn about communication planning, social media strategies, and more—plus earn 3 university credits through the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT)!

Foundations of Professional Communications will be running from January 23 – March 20, 2025. The course will consist of weekly virtual sessions with four days of in-person learning (March 3–6) at NVIT’s Burnaby campus.

This course is offered at no-cost to participants.

Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your skills and make an impact in your community! 

➡️ Register now: https://ow.ly/5UmY50UEJuq
➡️ Explore the 2024 Report: https://ow.ly/JSX050UEJur

#FirstNationsCommunications #ProfessionalDevelopment #IndigenousLeadership #NVIT #FAPC

📢 Registration Now Open for 2025 Foundations of Professional Communications! *New Dates*📢

The Foundations of Professional Communications for First Nations (FAPC 100) course is back this January, and it’s better than ever! Designed for First Nations communicators, this training provides hands-on experience with communication planning, social media strategies, and more - plus the chance to earn 3 university credits through the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT).

The course delivered real results in 2024, and we’re excited to share the highlights! From expanded social media strategies to hands-on communication planning, the course empowered participants to earn 3 university credits and strengthen practical skills they’re already applying in their communities. The 2024 outcomes report showcases how feedback from participants shaped key updates, ensuring the 2025 session will continue to adapt with the evolving needs of First Nations communicators. Curious about how this training could benefit you? Check out the report to learn more and join us for the next session launching on January 23, 2025.

➡️ Register for 2025: ow.ly/5UmY50UEJuq ➡️ Explore the 2024 Report: ow.ly/JSX050UEJur

#FirstNationsCommunications #ProfessionalDevelopment #IndigenousLeadership #NVIT #FAPC
... See MoreSee Less

📢 Registration Now Open for 2025 Foundations of Professional Communications! *New Dates*📢  

The Foundations of Professional Communications for First Nations (FAPC 100) course is back this January, and it’s better than ever! Designed for First Nations communicators, this training provides hands-on experience with communication planning, social media strategies, and more - plus the chance to earn 3 university credits through the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT). 

The course delivered real results in 2024, and we’re excited to share the highlights! From expanded social media strategies to hands-on communication planning, the course empowered participants to earn 3 university credits and strengthen practical skills they’re already applying in their communities. The 2024 outcomes report showcases how feedback from participants shaped key updates, ensuring the 2025 session will continue to adapt with the evolving needs of First Nations communicators. Curious about how this training could benefit you? Check out the report to learn more and join us for the next session launching on January 23, 2025. 

➡️ Register for 2025: https://ow.ly/5UmY50UEJuq ➡️ Explore the 2024 Report: https://ow.ly/JSX050UEJur

#FirstNationsCommunications #ProfessionalDevelopment #IndigenousLeadership #NVIT #FAPC

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