Check Out our Draft 2025-2035 Comprehensive Community Plan!

What is a Comprehensive Community Plan?

Comprehensive Community Plan (CCP) sometimes known as a Community Plan (CP) is a plan for the future of the community. Chief and Council (C & C) use the CCP as a roadmap for the development of projects, programs and services. The last CCP was completed in 2015 and was a 10-year plan.

C & C has asked the Indigenous and Community Engagement team to help with this process. Indigenous and Community Engagement has been meeting with leadership, staff and members of the Chippewas of Nawash and is helping to create the plan. The plan is made with members, and lets you share what is important to you and helps to create a vision for the community. There will be engagement sessions planned over the next couple of months, so be on the lookout for information about how you can get involved.

What’s in a CCP?

The following are typical topics to be included:

Community History and Context
Community Values and a Vision for the Future
Community needs and goals
Action plans to make it happen

Who can be involved?

Every member of the CNUFN can be involved, it doesn’t matter where you live. To learn more about it and see what we have learned so far visit the project web page.

A qr code with a white background

AI-generated content may be incorrect.
Scan the QR code or visit
https://www.nawash.ca/comprehensive-community-plan-update-and-five-year-strategic-plan-project/

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Michael Earl at the Band Office. Email: sao@nawash.ca

Overview of Work Completed to Date

2015-2025 Comprehensive Community Plan

Background Research

Preparation for the Comprehensive Community Plan began in late November. We started by reviewing 20 documents such as plans, reports, and proposals provided by management and supporting research to find best practices for supporting First Nation communities during an opioid crisis and working with senior management. A part of this was participating in the Chiefs of Ontario Mental Wellness and Substance Use Conference and trauma informed training. The results were prepared in a background report called the Preliminary Results of the Document Review and Environmental Scan Report.

Engagement Activities

Engagement started in January 2025, and we prepared a Community Collaboration and Communication Plan about communication and community engagement that was submitted to Chief and Council for review.

Engagement activities completed so far:

Launched project website Comprehensive Community Plan Update and Five-Year Strategic Plan Project – Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation and first survey in mid- March that was open until the end of April. A summary report of the survey results can be found on the project web page.
Provided updates in newsletters in 2025 issued on March 14, April 11, May 6 and this one (May 23)
Conducted 18 Interviews with Chief and Council and Staff from December to March
Conducted 6 focus groups/group meetings including with 3 Opioid Response Team, Board of Education Trustees, Family Well-being Staff, and Helpers Circle
Online survey with 76 participants
The first round of Community Open Houses was held on for all members to share insights to support the update of the CCP and discuss the priorities for a new Five-Year Strategy on April 22^nd and 23^rd (1 virtual session and 2 in-person sessions) with 25 participants.

We are sharing highlights of what we heard at these meetings, as well as from the survey on the project web site. Paper copies can also be picked up at the Band Office from Rachel Renfrew, Communications Manager.

We are getting ready for the next in-person events in May, which are noted below. We will also be back in June and July for more conversation!

CCP Update, July 4th, 2025

On June 23, 24 and 25, two in-person engagement sessions, one virtual and a meeting with Elders were held to discuss the Comprehensive Community Plan. The presentation and activities included:

Overview of key achievements since the 2015 CCP,
Review, discussion and prioritization of the 12 proposed Community Priorities identified through previous engagement activities, and
Review and discuss goals for each of the 12 proposed Community Priorities.

The presentation included photos submitted as a part of the photo competition, and translations of the names of the Planning Pillars that will be used in the Comprehensive Community Plan.

Economy – How we will make money – Waa-zhi-zhoonyaakeying
Governance & Administration – How we will lead & how we will run things – Waa-zhi-niigaan’ziying & Waa-zhi-bmibdetooying
Infrastructure, Buildings, & Housing – What is built on our land, buildings, & where we live – Ezhichigaadeg gdakiimnaang, Wiigwaaman, & Endaaying
Education & Life-long Learning – How we will become learned & how we will be continuously learning something – Ge-zhi-gkendaasying & Pane Gegoo Ge-ni-gkendmang
Language & Culture – Nishnaabe language & how we are as Nishnaabe people Nishnaabemwin & Ezhi-nishnaabewying
Health & Community Well-being – How we will come to feel well & how we must all think about things together Weweni Waa-ni-zhiyaaying & Kina go Aabdek Ge-nendmang

A more detailed summary of what was discussed at the community meetings will be on the CCP website: https://www.nawash.ca/comprehensive-community-plan-update-and-five-year-strategic-plan-project/

A second survey has been launched that covers much of the same information from the Round 3 engagement sessions, so that others can share their thoughts. Your voice is important. FIND THE SURVEY HERE. A prize draw will be held for those who complete the survey by July 9, 2025.

The draft Comprehensive Community Plan has been posted on the Community website. If you have comments to share, please do so by July 14, 2025 by sending to nawashCCP@indigenousengagement.ca.

In July the Draft CCP and 5-year Implementation Strategy will be reviewed with Council, and the Final CCP presented virtually to community members (anticipated the week of July 21 or July 28, 2025).

Last week we had nearly 35 participants, and some of the key outcomes included:

The top 6 most pressing proposed Community Priorities identified by community members were:
- Improve accountability and communication
- Build new housing and rehabilitate old housing stock
- Increase opportunities for children and youth
- Create more spaces to gather
- Advance Community Safety
- Improve Access to health services

Members generally agreed with the presented Communities Priorities and Goals and provided some additional context. The following outlines high-level feedback related to the 12 proposed Community Priorities during last week’s engagement.

Strengthening Our Language and Culture. “Culture and language are integrated into all programs and services to build a sense of belonging,” as the most important goal for this priority. With membership mentioning that a specific program needs to be created to teach language and culture to the youth.
Support Education and Lifelong Learning. “Opportunities for our children to be taught by our members, integrating language and culture into our own curriculum and learning goals,” as the most important goal for this priority. Membership added that there needs to be a way for community members and Elders to get involved, and mentor the children.
Create More Community Wellbeing Programs and Services. “Substance use prevention strategies are built into all Nation social, health and education programming that supports building a sense of purpose, hope, belonging and meaning for all members,” as the most important goal for this priority. It was brought up during the community that the strategies must also include plans to stop people from getting addicted in the first place.
Increase Economic Development Opportunities. “Develop commercial spaces in Neyaashiinigmiing for Nation or member owned businesses and services,” as the most important goal for this priority. Membership brought up that these spaces need to be spaces where members can share their ideas with each other and feel safe, without erecting barriers.
Advance Self-government and Protection of Rights. “Members agreed with the goal of, “Assert our jurisdiction, authority, and our right to free, prior, and informed consent,” as the most important goal for this priority. Membership added that a key part of this goal is ensuring that the children were educated on the inherent rights, treaties and history of Nawash.
Build New Housing and Rehabilitate Old Housing Stock. “Members agreed with the goal of, “Emergency shelter and transitional housing with support services is developed in Neyaashiinigmiing so members do not need to leave the community when in need of emergency shelter,” as the most important goal for this priority. Membership added that these spaces need to be safe spaces for the men in the community to access.
Improve Food Security Programs community priorities. “Sustainable community garden and food bank system accessible to all members in need,” as the most important goal for this priority. Members also added that they would like to see the reintroduction of wild rice beds in Nawash.
Advance Community Safety. “A Neyaashiinigmiing Police Force operated by the First Nation to provide community safety and emergency response services in the community,” as the most important goal for this priority. Members added that they would like to see a community-based learning approach to safety and emergency services in the community
Improve Access to Appropriate Health Services. “A health clinic in the community staffed by Nation health professionals and traditional healers working together to provide holistic mental physical and spiritual care for members,” as the most important goal for this priority. Membership added that there needs to be options for members on which type of medicine they would like to use.
Create More Community Spaces to Gather. “Accessible indoor and outdoor spaces are available for all Members to organize and participate in community events, programming and recreation,” as the most important goal for this priority. Membership added that there should be spaces to create, learn and practice new and traditional skills.
Increase Opportunities for Children and Youth. “Investment in infrastructure and programming for Youth-centered programs and services,” as the most important goal for this priority. Members added that support for the youth needs to come with support for the family.
Improve Accountability and Communication. “Transparent decision-making processes and reporting to membership on a quarterly basis,” as the most important goal for this priority. Members said that the responsibility of communication is not just up to the Chief and Council, but to every member of the community.

Overview of CCP Survey #1, and 3 Community Engagement Sessions April 27-28, 2025

The following highlights issues and ideas shared during the April community engagement sessions and through the survey. Much of what has been shared focuses on community challenges and concerns, but there are also some achievements identified. This is important to understand how members of the community are feeling and will inform the CCP. The upcoming engagement sessions will be more future-focused.

For the Community engagement sessions, we had 23 participants which included members and some staff who are also members.

For the survey there were 76 responses.

73% said they were band members
5% said they were band staff 
13% said they were both members and staff 
8% answered none of the above 
Approximately half said they live on-reserve and half- said they live off-reserve

A more fulsome overview of the survey results and the community meetings are available below.

Greatest accomplishments in the last 10 years:

Economic Development – Community members highlighted the success and growth of Cape Croker Park, the maple syrup production, the new Economic Development Corporation and the opportunities with Bruce Power.
Housing Accomplishments – The addition of new housing was identified as a success, and the positive impact of the Habitat of Humanity housing for families.
Infrastructure Accomplishments – The completion of the new water treatment plant water system, the paving of roads, the construction of the new school and the planning underway for the new band office.
Community Supports – Community events like the Pow wow, and activities at the community centre that bring people together and language and cultural programs and the development of the food bank and the community gardens.
Health and Wellness – The community working together during a crisis, and the coordination of supports during COVID and growing support for the opioid crisis,
Programs and Services – Efforts to get more supports and resources for members, families and communities with mental health and addictions supports.
New School – Opening of the new school and the expansion of programming by the Board of Education to include language, land-based learning and supports for students.

Greatest challenges in the last 10 years:

Communication Challenges – A lack of communication and engagement was listed as one of the greatest challenges. Poor engagement of the broader membership and concern that their input will not make a difference in decision making, and that there is generally reporting back and/or updates on various projects and achievements. This includes for off-reserve members, youth and Elders being specifically mentioned. Some also mentioned lack of connection to the Hereditary Chiefs.
Governance and Administration Challenges – The two-year election cycle was noted as a problem and a feeling of a lack of information about what is going on and concern with the band finances and incomplete audits. Many said the impact of high staff turnover was interrupting programs and services. There were many mentions of improving accountability, and a desire to see Council members in the community more and participating in activities and events.
Sense of Community – There was concern about a reduced sense of community, and an unwillingness to talk about the impacts of generational trauma and a loss of language and culture. Also concerns about a perceived division within the community, and lack of trust. There is also a concern about the lack of spaces and places to gather.
Health and Wellness Challenges – The opioid crisis and the impact of addiction was listed as the greatest challenge and the impact it is having on the physical and mental health of members. Concerns about how health services are being delivered on-reserve and the need for more culturally based health supports and supports for Elders and youth.
Economic Development Challenges – More employment opportunities for members in the community was noted, and opportunities for members to be employed in managerial band positions.
Communication and Engagement – There is a desire to have more engagement, with different approaches, and consider both youth and Elders.
Housing – This was identified as a priority for many, and the need for different types of housing to meet the diverse needs of membership, including older adults who are single, young adults who are single, and more multi-family spaces. Investment in neighbourhood development is being made to create safe residential areas and developments that reflect members’ lifestyles.
Unfinished projects – There were comments about several projects that were started and not finished.

Comments on the 5 pillars from the last CCP which included:

Lands, Resources and Rights
Health and Social Well-being
Leadership and Community Services
Education, Culture and Languages
Economy

From the survey, 43% felt that these should still be the focus of the CCP, 30% said no, and 37% did not know.

Top priorities for Council and Staff should focus on over the next five years were related to:

Community Building
Economy
Administration
Governance & Sovereignty
Lands & Rights
Housing & Infrastructure
Health and Wellness
Education
Language and Culture
Communication & Accessibility
Emergency Preparedness

There were many comments about focusing on actionable items.

Comments related to Values noted in the 2015-2025 CCP and 2021 Land Use Plan:

A number liked the seven grandfather teachings being included in the last CCP, however questioned if we are living these.
A number liked the Values included in the Land Use Plan.
Other comments were related to being broader, including transparency, adding reference to you and Elders, and the importance of honesty has a foundation.

Participants at the in-person and virtual community meetings expressed that there should be more time to discuss the plan and the strategy. Our team is working with C&C and staff to schedule more community engagement sessions and more focus groups over the next couple of months, we have organized a meeting for Elders at 1pm on May 26^th at Maadoowkii, and two more drop-in meetings at the Community Centre from 6pm to 8pm on May 26^th and one from 1pm to 3pm on May 27^th. A special youth meeting is also being planned for early June.

The following summarizes feedback received during engagement June 23-25, 2025 on the CNUFN Comprehensive Community Plan.

Community Priority Proposed Modifications / Comments	Goals	Agree?	Goal Proposed Modifications / Comments
Community Priority: Strengthen Our Culture and Language
This is a statement not a goal, it focuses on culture not language.Statement needs to emphasize languageHow are we recognizing and supporting community members who make the efforts to preserve the languageCulture and language need to be a high priority for self-awareness and spiritual well-beingA cultural safety policyA Cultural approach policy	Culture and language are integrated into all programs and services to build a sense of belonging.	7	Curriculum in Ojibway is to difficult to accomplish, would take years to implement.
	Indoor and outdoor spaces are accessible to all members of all faiths for gatherings and ceremonies to bring members together.	3
	Language learning opportunities are integrated across all programming to create a sense of belonging and connection to the community.	1	There are not many fluent speakers left More language programs
	Others to add?		Land based learning provided at younger ages, e.g, big brother- big sisterHunting, gathering, sharing knowledge
Community Priority: Support Education and Lifelong Learning
Proposed Modifications /Comments Ask grade 9’s what they need in their education to be successful – not just what we thinkMembers need a way to share knowledge with one another- with the support of councilInvestment into staff development	Opportunities for our children to be taught by our members, integrating language and culture into our own curriculum and learning goals.	6	Mentors
	Health, wellbeing and land and water-based learning are available to all members.	3
	Lifelong learning and adult education opportunities are easily accessible to support members to continue or restart their learning journey in all stages of life.	3	All programs should have continuous messages.
	Others to add?		Their achievements
Community Priority: Build New Housing and Rehabilitate Old Housing Stock
Proposed Modifications /Comments What does equal access to housing look likeIt may be more cost effective to build new housing in some cases instead of rehabilitating it	Different types of housing, including different sizes and accessibility, are available in Neyaashiinigmiing, to meet the needs of members in all stages of life.	5
	Nation owned housing in Neyaashiinigmiing is renovated and maintained as needed to meet the needs of members.	1	Maintenance support for all members regardless of income Rent to own band rentals Give members access to other members who have buildings skills & do community workshop support
	Nation owned housing is developed and made available to unhoused members living in neighboring communities.	3
	Emergency shelter and transitional housing with support services is developed in Neyaashiinigmiing so members do not need to leave the community when in need of emergency shelter.	5	Create spaces for men
	Safe and comfortable housing and support services for all, especially Elders and seniors.	4
	Others to add?	2	Off-Rez rental housingOpportunity for members to build their own homes
Community Priority: Create More Community Spaces to Gather
Proposed Modifications /Comments Do the spaces have to be in the community? What about elsewhere in the territory as a recognition of treaty rightsEasily accessible spaces, with little bureaucracy	Community buildings and programming spaces are open and accessible to Members to meet or seek social connections.	6
	Accessible indoor and outdoor spaces are available for all Members to organize and participate in community events, programming and recreation.	6
	Nation owned buildings and assets are maintained to keep an inventory of community gathering spaces, program delivery spaces and office spaces.	7
	Others to add?	6	Spaces for elders and youth to meetLook beyond community boundaries, the peninsula
Community Priority: Create More Community Wellbeing Programs and Services
Proposed Modifications /Comments Focus on Elders, recognize and prioritize themUtilize the knowledge and wisdom of the Elders to make our community wellShould be inclusive of people with mental health crisis, not just substance usePeople should be able to stay in the community till they passMember led wellbeing programming – members need to take initiative	Substance use prevention strategies are built into all Nation social, health and education programming that supports building a sense of purpose, hope, belonging and meaning for all members.	4	We need to provide optionsHow do we prevent people from becoming addictedLong term support for well-being
	Community driven inclusive harm reduction services are safe for all members that integrates physical, spiritual, emotional and mental wellness, connecting members to community and regional supports.	2
	In-community treatment options and partnerships with regional treatment facilities, to create culturally safe options for members who are ready to enter treatment programs.	2
	Safe spaces for harm reduction programs and services to support members with substance use disorders to reduce the risk of overdose and drug poisonings.		prevention
	Safe community recovery spaces for members to return to Neyaashiinigmiing to be supported in the recovery with access to mental health supports, healthcare and opportunities to rejoin community life.	3
	Education and trauma-informed training, to reduce stigma and alienation of members with substance-use disorders, to reduce social isolation and exclusion from community life.	2
	Whole community physical, emotional, mental and spiritual supports for staff and families supporting those with substance use issues and addictions.	1
	Others to add?	1	Support groups24 hr mental health and addictions support on reserve.Support lines for members
Community Priority: Improve Access to Health Services
Proposed Modifications /Comments We need to create options	An integrated health and wellness system in Neyaashiinigmiing addressing community and member needs that is culturally safe and based in traditional and western practices.	4	Advocacy support for seniorsAdvocacy in and out of community (all areas, ages)
	A health clinic in the community staffed by Nation health professionals and traditional healers working together to provide holistic mental, physical and spiritual care for members.	7	Need to provide options for alternate Health management
	Respectful and integrated partnerships with the regional health system to provide trauma-informed care for members who must receive health services outside of the community.	10	Exercise for seniors needs to be a priority
	Others to add?		Support for seniors living alone (housing)Partnership with other First NationsMental Health and addiction supportIdentify top health issues (e.g diabetes, heart disease etc.)Funding primary care doctor for communityFeds responsibility and provinces to increase $
Community Priority: Improve Food Security Programs
Proposed Modifications /Comments A self-sufficient food system is a lofty goal that maybe a challenge to achieve. Maybe just a food system that supports access to a variety of food in a variety of ways	A community operated food security system that integrates growing, storing and distribution of food to members in Neyaashiinigmiing.	5	gardens Move from food bank to food center- handout vs empowerment
	Access to a retail grocery store with in Neyaashiinigmiing to create greater access to food for members.	3	Bus to store
	Sustainable community garden and food bank system accessible to all members in need.	6	Food is a necessity not a crutch
	Others to add?		Wild rice bedsSupport members to start their own gardens
Community Priority: Advance Community Safety
Proposed Modifications /Comments Create peacekeepers Fair treatment from policeCreate better priorities for enforcing the lawChange force to service and laws to traditions	A Neyaashiinigmiing Police Force operated by the First Nation to provide community safety and emergency response services in the community.	5	Not working – years + yearCommunity- based learning / awareness approach
	Integrated police services with mental health, addictions and health services for the development of a Crisis Outreach and Support Team to provided integrated support to members in Neyaashiinigmiing.	4
	Emergency Response Plan that coordinates communication, safety, resources and services for members living in Neyaashiinigmiing that details prevention, preparedness, response and recovery plans for potential emergencies in Neyaashiinigmiing.	6
Community Priority: Increase Opportunities for Children and Youth
Proposed Modifications / Comments Support youth and their families- break cyclesSafety for youthYouth councilProvide parents with the support they need to care for their childrenThis should be done at the school so that they get interested in what is going on in the world	Supported and meaningful inclusion of Youth in Nation leadership and planning.	4	Have committee meeting
	Investment in infrastructure and programming for Youth-centred programs and services.	6	Drop in centre for youth 5-7 days a week after school.
	Initiatives to support Youth with gathering, language learning, cultural initiatives, land-based programming, Elder mentorship, and in all learning areas that they see as important for their growth and development.		Family needs to be included as a unit
	Others to add?	5	Recreation for all agesSports, varsity, dancing, singingColdwater Trust has a youth seat that has been vacant since inception
Community Priority: Improve Accountability and Communication
Proposed Modifications / Comments Communicate + engage with transparencyQuarterly reports by Chief and Council to communityFinancial reports every 6 months to the communityEnsure we know all revenue coming into the band so we can manage it properlyCreate secure channels (cyber security)	Transparent decision-making processes and reporting to membership on a quarterly basis.	10	It’s up to everyone to communicate not just the Chief and Council
	Inclusive communication with all members living in Neyaashiinigmiing or in other places.	5	off-reserve communication and inclusion needs improvement
	Proactive management of band capital assets to protect buildings, facilities and spaces for administration, program delivery and services.	4	Own source revenue transparency Provide annual financial reports to community in writing
	Others to add?	3	Audits should have an effect on elections.
Community Priority: Increase Economic Development Opportunities
Proposed Modifications / Comments Find partners that support the community, etc., employment.Business plaza in community & at hunting grounds	Members will have access to training and funding for small business development and employment opportunities.	5
	Generate revenues for the Nation through investment and equity partnerships in major projects proposed in Saukiing Anishnaaabekiing that align with membership priorities and values.	4	Obtain long term capacity funding from proponents operating within our territory
	Develop commercial spaces in Neyaashiinigmiing for Nation or member owned businesses and services.	7	Create open dialogue with members to allow for ideas to be voiced without erecting barriers. Off-reserve visitor centreLegislation both prov and FedBusiness plaza in community & Hunting groundBusiness Plan on community and hunting grounds by Highway 6Know what businesses can be successful- plan so it succeeds + work involved
	Investment in Cape Croker Park with a focus on sustainable tourism.	3
	Others to add?	5	Create jobs – Ensure partners (e.g, Bruce Power) make jobs available to members
Community Priority: Advance Self-government and Protection of Rights
Proposed Modifications / Comments Creating a constitutionUNDRIPIt is important to create our own laws- AnishinaabeRecognition of our self-government rights from CanadaLearn about 3 fires confederacy Protect our ways of life and the landTerm limits on council	Assert our jurisdiction, authority, and our right to free, prior, and informed consent.	6	Our children need to be educated about our history, inherent rights, treaties.
	Develop a Constitution that states who we are, what we do, and how we are accountable to our People as well as to other First Nations.	3	We need to be healthy in body, mind and spirit for self-government
	Others to add?	8	Ensure our treaty rights are respectedEnsure that the court case is provided with the appropriate level of resources that it is successfulImplement UNDRIP PlanProtect environment – Environment should be its own priorityEnvironmental Impact Studies as a requirement for on reserve developmentsProtection of archaeological rights on reserveEnsure the long-term viability of our community (e.g. ensuring we have band members in future generations)

Other Community Priorities proposed:

Environment as a key priority
Support for members that are achieving their goals
Recognition and support for Artists – Support, Exhibitions, Training, Space to Work
Signage throughout the territory on who we are, our land, our rights
Off-reserve outreach for homeless members
Increase lobbying with Provincial and Federal Governments

Round 2 Engagement Summaries (May 26-28, 2025)

The Chief and Council retained the services of Indigenous and Community Engagement Inc. to support the updating of the 2015-2025 Comprehensive Community Plan (CCP) and develop a new 5-Year Implementation (Strategic) Plan. As part of the CCP process, ICE undertook a second round of community engagement from May 26-28, including:

A drop-in tea for Elders on May 26^th, at the Maadookii Seniors Centre;
A Community Open House the evening of May 26^th and a drop-in afternoon session the afternoon of May 27th; and
A virtual Open House the evening on May 28^th.

There were 31 participants amongst the 4 events, including Chief and 4 Councilors who participated in the evening engagement session. Some of the participants work for the band but are also community members. These sessions focused on discussing the CCP goals and activities.

These sessions focused on discussing the CCP goals and activities. The following tables outline some of the key goals heard during the conversations. Thank you to everyone who participated.

The next round of meetings will be held the week of June 23^rd, keep your eye out on the website, and social media for the details.

Economy

Goals	Ideas to consider
Generate own-source revenue for to create self-sufficiency.	SON EO lands could be developed for a gas station or other uses like a hotel, and off-reserve housing.
Own- Source revenue for self-sufficiency – Internal for band-owned businesses (on and off-reserve)	Consider economic feasibility of different options for on and off-reserve (hotel, motel, gas station, grocery store, etc.) – consider what is noted in the Land Use Plan and refine. Need to consider differences in developing opportunities that are located on and off reserve lands. Support for entrepreneurs. Create business that caters to cottagers around Cape Croaker Park.
Power Independence (secure energy supply)	Develop a band owned electricity corporation to have a secure source of renewable energy. Consider renewable power sources (i.e. solar, wind, water).
Create and implement a business plan focused on opportunities for tourism	Consider what the community does and does not want happening on reserve for sustainable tourism.
Transparency about community revenues and expenditures	Understand revenue sources from projects in the territory (e.g. Bruce to Milton transmission line, medical isotope sales, etc.) and how these funds are used. Understand new projects and potential revenues (pump storage and others). Understand the plan for Hope Bay.

Governance and Administration

Goals	Ideas to consider
Coming together as one Nation	7 Generations principles applied to everything. Creating a Nation Constitution. Creating a Nation police force. Exercising jurisdiction over child welfare. Working together to set goals.
Have clearer policies and increased transparency	Improve communication with members. Improve transparency on how money is being used for the community. Clearer directions on how programs are run. Reduce program and department micro-management.
Improved continuity from one Council to the Next	Improve financial compensation for leadership to encourage others to participate. Changing the band election schedule for longer terms. Creating consequences of forms of impeachment for councilors who don’t fulfill their responsibilities. Consider having only half of Council up for election each cycle to maintain some consistency and knowledge.
Create a business plan for all band owned enterprises.	Create a business plan to outline investments and distribution of revenues.

Lands, Resources & Sovereignty

Goals	Ideas to consider
Focus on land stewardship throughout the territory and protection of natural resources.	Reclaiming land in the territory. Protection of natural resources. Mapping resource areas. Be clearer about what SON EO does.
Identify economic opportunities in the Territory and explore potential property investment.	Economic zones in the territory for potential investment Purchase land in the area
Secure a long-term supply of land for community burials.	overidentify new spaces to secure lands for burials in the community.
Incorporate education about rights in the schools and in the community to educate the next generation about their rights and Territory.	Education in the schools about resource sovereignty. Teaching what unceded means. Promoting respect for harvesting rights Education about the work of the SON EO office and it’s role in Nawash
Assert the Nation’s sovereignty over Territory to assert our rights and interests.	Create a Nation Constitution. Make our own laws. Creating diplomatic passports. Restoring jurisdictional authority over native lands. Creating a land registry for members.

Community Infrastructure & Buildings

Goals	Ideas to consider
Have a place to gather to build a sense of belonging and community connection.	Create a Cultural Centre and Committee Place to tell stories Ceremonial Grounds Space to create fire
Have a place for recreation	Recreational Facilities Trails so that people do not have to talk on roads Rink, baseball diamond Splash pad, playground
Have more housing and more types of housing and amenities	Apartment for buildings for members Space for members to buy homes Improve internet services Funding for house renovations with a priority on Elders The potential of tiny homes on reserve
Improve on-reserve waste management	Create a sewer system. Waste water treatment plant. Better dumpster waste.
Food sovereignty	Community garden to support the food bank
Repair damaged buildings	Maintain and repair band buildings and assets to protect spaces for programs and services
Transportation plan/system	Assist members who do not drive with transportation so they can participate in programs, services and events Bring back the buses that used to take people on and off the reserve
Improve shared outdoor spaces	Public toilet on the beachfront. Dock and table at the lighthouse. More seating around the shorelines.

Language and Culture

Goals	Ideas to consider
Reinvigorate language and culture	Provide time off to staff to learn language and/or pay people to learn. Land-based learning opportunities, and longer-term opportunities (not just one day). Anishinabowin in the Territory bilingual on signs. Information about cultural sites on the reserve in the language. Create full immersion language classes. Seed bank, teepee and sweat lodge for every program, way of life (not just ceremony). Improve and share existing opportunities for funding support to learn language and culture (including ceremony and on the land). Teach people how to prepare wild game and share skills. Have safe spaces to share stories and ceremonial grounds that is accessible to all with privacy (a building). Teepee and sweat lodge for every program that is available to everyone to use. Create spaces for culture and ceremony. Language camp.
Reconnect members with who we are and where we come by bringing members together.	Annual Treaty Day for people to come home and use the park. Create a network with other communities doing cultural and language activities, learn from what is working in other communities. Feast for each season. Information about areas of importance (lighthouse, homesteads, etc.). Embed language and culture as a base for all departments/programs. Make connections with other communities.
Increase volunteer base to support language and cultural learning.	Increase volunteer base to support language and cultural learning. Involve those in recovery to be language leaders and have a role in the community.
Create a department for language, culture, arts and heritage.	Encourage staff to access language training.Incorporate culture into corporate relationships.Team representatives from each band department to integrate language and culture into programming.Educate all about our history and rights.
Create space for all members to participate in language and culture learning.	Encourage all members to participate with the message that it is OK to practice other religions and still participate in culture and language.
Increase language learning opportunities	Land-based activities for youth to learn Annishanabowen. Preservation project for the language.Use language on signs everywhere in the Territory.

Education and Life-long learning

Goals	Ideas to consider
Inspire people to dream big and support their life-long learning journey.	Build community members’ self esteem and provide learning support. Easier access to higher education by not restricting people to one degree Honour non-educational knowledge and compensate people for it Recognize professionals in the community and create a way for them to give back, and honor life experiences not just degrees Where a staff role is not filled by a community member find jobs shadow and skills improvement training to support them in future Provide support for entrepreneurs
Invest in youth education opportunities.	Internships for different roles in the Nation administration and share at school about jobs. Leverage partnerships with organizations for youth training and mentorship. Support youth entrepreneurship. Land based boys and girl scouts organization. Teach kids how to survive without the internet. Easier access to higher education – Remove restrictions on how many degree’s the band will pay for and increase overall funding. Labs for youth to learn. Encourage all kinds of futures and jobs.

Health & Community Well-being

Goals	Ideas to consider
Create more staff positions to support people in need 24hr/7	Create teams of support not just one person. More outreach for harm reduction not just crisis response. Transitional housing, short and long-term supports. Opiod and drug addictions supports including safe use sites. Rules and restrictions for visitors. Drop in space for people to use safely. Outreach not just response. More outreach and support for Elders. Have more 1:1 discussions, not one size fits all.
Protect the environment to protect our health and well-being.	Testing to check if water is safe. Protect the springs and water. Protect Medicines on reserve.
Create more on-reserve programs.	Focus on community members. 24 hr support for youth and a youth centre. Fun events to be together. Educational events. Celebrations. Health Fair with natural medicines. Skills sharing opportunities workshops. Running mini-workshops at the powwow on making ribbon skirts and how to dance.
Improve communication about programs, services and events available to members.	More clear and accessible community calendar to avoid scheduling overlap between organizations and departments.
Create a feeling of community	Reduce barriers to apply and participate. Breakdown service delivery silos (regardless of which department receives the funding). More outreach and engagement with community members. Elder Specific supports like shoveling, check-in’s, pair with youth or others to support. More celebration and fun events. Community fasting camp, central gathering areas, youth centre. Rules for Visitors to the community.
Develop central places in the community for members to gather .	Offer transportation supports for people to attend. More communication about gatherings. Assign people to assist Elders.
Address community safety concerns.	Safety from dogs. Safety from drugs and people coming into the community. Vet staff and volunteers, and enforce current practices. Increase safety for those accessing programs.
Have culturally appropriate spaces for healing and medical support.	Funding to healing centre/ trauma healing. Hospice and palliative care.

Fill Out the Survey Now

Community Plan On-line Survey Results Summary

The 2015-2025 Comprehensive Community Plan (CCP) was created by a group of members, Councilors and staff that set out goals and activities that would be like a path for staff and Council to follow. The CCP now needs to be updated to plan, reflect on successes, challenges and set new priorities. Indigenous and Community Engagement Inc. has been hired to support Chief and Council to update the plan and create a five-year implementation strategy.

In mid-March and April an online survey was available for members to share their thoughts and ideas about the successes and challenges experienced in the community over the past 10 years.

The results of the UNDRIP and Communications questions will be provided separately as those were included primarily to inform other projects.

Who completed the survey? 

76 responses
73% said they were band members
5% said they were band staff 
13% said they were both members and staff 
8% answered none of the above 
Approximately half of respondents said they live on-reserve and half said they live off-reserve

Answers have been summarized and organized into main categories.

Economic Development – Community members highlighted the success and growth of Cape Croker Park, the maple syrup production, the new Economic Development Corporation and the opportunities with Bruce Power.

Housing Accomplishments – The addition of new housing was identified as a success, and the positive impact of the Habitat of Humanity housing for families.

Infrastructure Accomplishments – The completion of the new water treatment plant water system, the paving of roads, the construction of the new school and the planning underway for the new band office.

Community Supports – Community events like the Pow wow, and activities at the community centre that bring people together and language and cultural programs. The community working together during a crisis, and the coordination of supports during COVID and growing support for the opioid crisis, the development of the food bank and the community gardens.

Answers have been summarized and organized into categories.

Communication Challenges – A lack of communication and engagement was listed as one of the greatest challenges. Poor engagement of the broader membership and concern that their input will not make a difference in decision making.

Governance and Administration Challenges – The two-year election cycle was noted as a problem and a feeling of a lack of information about what is going on and concern with the band finances and incomplete audits. Many said the impact of high staff turnover was interrupting programs and services.

Community Challenges – There was concern about a reduced sense of community, and an unwillingness to talk about the impacts of generational trauma and a loss of language and culture.

Health and Wellness Challenges – The opioid crisis and the impact of addiction was listed as the greatest challenge and the impact it is having on the physical and mental health of members. Concerns about how health services are being delivered on-reserve and the need for more culturally based health supports and supports for Elders and youth.

Economic Development Challenges – More employment opportunities for members in the community was noted, and opportunities for members to be employed in managerial band positions.

Infrastructure Challenges – Challenges related to infrastructure included the need for good roads, and the protection of band infrastructure and buildings and different types of housing.

The following are direct quotes from responses received.

Needs to say we will support those members who need our help the most, that we will not discriminate against off-reserve members.
Help fight inner demons of the past, so we can heal in the present and help our future generations prosper without or limited stressors.
High quality of services.
Land, Water and all Beings are protected, this encompasses everything or can say Anishnaabekiing (our home or our Territory) remove environment.
Inherent Indigenous and Treaty Rights
Sustaining Anishnaabek culture, language and traditions first, add social, health and well-being.
Should be written in Anishnaabemowin first and then translate it into English.
Accepting everyone’s beliefs.
Equity in access to resources. Building and maintaining higher standards.
Employment and housing.
Right to self-govern ourselves the way we decide best.
Community integrates all members whether living on or off reserve.
Transparency of all decisions made.
Guardians and protectors of land, water, animals, fish, birds, plant and tree life and our future generations.
Stop pretending ‘community’ represents us all.
We cannot honour the 7 teachings if more than one is missing within our community.
We can have humility if we haven’t healed from the past.
We can’t have truth if no one is willing to talk about the truth.
We can’t have wisdom as we as individuals don’t know how to heal ourselves.
We can have honesty, if we are not honest with ourselves.
We can’t have love if we hate ourselves.
We can’t have courage if we are unwilling to be uncomfortable.
We can’t fight for what’s right if we don’t know how to govern ourselves.
Remove the term stakeholders.
I would take out strive and replace it with build a better First Nations. I would put health of as a priority.
Remove the seven grandfather teachings as it is a whitewashed version of our spirituality. Replace it with words like honour all members, listen to all voices, share jobs and opportunities with all members, not just those already employed.
Transparency and the opportunity for members to learn about all that is being proposed in territory.
Thriving, sustainable vibrant community that is built upon the historical and traditional values of our nation and our members achieve their highest potential in health and wellness.
The whole vision statement is very western and formal in it’s wording. I would prefer to see it written in the language and the statement should be found through ceremony rather than western means.

The following are direct quotes from responses received.

Mental health and Trauma Work/Health and Wellness/Mental Health and Addictions
Self-determination, nation-building, constitution and law development 
Communication and Community Engagement
Economic Development
Language and Culture
Housing and Social Services
Safety, Stages of life – children/seniors/elders as priorities
Off-reserve Membership Supports/Membership
The laws of our Creator
To care for our lands and environment as the Creator intended
Housing
Employment
Ending opioid Crisis
Culture Revitalization   
Implementing our own System  
Enjoyment of life
These pillars do not reflect accountability and commitment. 
Leadership, education, health, lands and economy  
This should be rooted in our teachings of what healthy living and traditions are. Speak to the elders and knowledge holders. Seek the answers through ceremony on the land. Do not ask closed ended questions. Learn to listen and reflect in order to articulate a genuine and impactful model. 
We aspire to the healthy mental, spiritual, physical and emotional well-being of all.

General comments: The following are direct quotes from responses received.

Nothing to be removed. Just focus on what’s needed. And that’s healthy activities and mental health initiatives to help our people heal. 
It would be to do a whole review. 
I would like to add the membership. We have no economic development. We have a SON building in Wiarton that all councillors are part of and receive 300 plus to attend meetings. Grassroots peoples receive 20 cents a kilometer and program staff receive 58 cents a kilometer. Where is fairness? We attend medical appointments they go for lunch.  
Lands, resources, and rights – waste of time and money focus on earning OSR 
Break up these pillars – why is education crammed in with culture and language? 
I would like it all to reflect more of our culture/language,  its kinda government sounding as is. 
Leadership needs to have more qualifiers.  How do we train C & C?  Why is there nepotism everywhere?  Why do people get fired without cause so quickly?  Why do we not hire qualified people?   
Remove all the pillars and listen to the community.  Obviously, these pillars aren’t working. Was anything done from the last community meeting to address concerns?   
This entire process should be done through ceremony on the land. Communicated through the language, songs and art. Not documents and surveys. 
Rights we waste time and attention and millions on lawyers while ppl are suffering now!

The last question asked about the Community Plan asked

The following are the responses organized into themes, and they are direct quotes from responses received:

Community Building

Make strides to eliminate the community member divide that has been only seeming to get worse over the past few years.
Inclusion for all members 
Acceptance and understanding (building a strong sense of community/belonging), education (not just community members, but allies as well) 
Sustainability, community
Start thinking of a big picture around decolonizing SON territory which involves decolonizing the broader population 
Enjoyment of life – improve our social gathering places – benches, washrooms, garbage cans, wash areas to clean fish, prepare BBQ fixings, have paddle boats or rent canoes, kayaks, sell beach balls, snorkel equipment.  Pave certain areas and build a gazebo (for weddings, family gatherings, bird watchers, visitors)
Community takes responsibilities for social and cultural events, not relying on programs to plan and fund events.
Connection coming back together

Economy

Continuing to increase and improve our economic development. 
More funding and opportunities for the future of our Youth.  
Growth (economic development, developing members, etc.) 
Economic Development services, management and success 
Hope Bay develop seasonal rentals (don’t lease the land again), pay members to build, do maintenance, clean etc. 
Learning and economics opportunities for everyone who seeks. 
Promote and assist on reserve businesses 
Creating economic stability
Give people a reason to come home

Administration 

Understanding how to work together and provide supports for workers that are struggling 
4-day work weeks 
Allow supervisors to do their jobs. Get rid of the many barriers in place to get heard at Council. 
Finding a way for programs to be self-sufficient without having to go to Council for basic operations permissions. 
Strong HR & staff retention and well-being.
Training staff to provide a stellar service to the community, starting with management positions. 
Identify the skills people need to gain band employment and train them!  
Create a database of band members with their education, work experience, volunteer experience, expertise, contact info and invite them to be active participants in committees, job postings, volunteer opportunities, develop a volunteer appreciation strategy. 
Hire a professional fundraiser/grant writer to support departments to write grant applications, reports and fund private funding.
Establish a philanthropic charitable community foundation that benefits members, families, committees, sports teams, because families are struggling to send kids to sports activities, elders need funds to rebuild from fires, pow wow needs consistent fundraising support.
The HR policies suck! They need an equity audit, in fact, all programs and services need equity audits. 
Develop a community of comprehensive equity, accessibility, inclusion and belonging audit!
Empowering staff and band members
Updating ALL policies and communicate them.
Digital training for staff and community members
Get us voting via one-feather
Process payments via Plooto
Record and post council meetings to website
Using our own Systems bcr
Get away from gossiping and creating a healthy work environment

Governance

Leadership terms back to 4 years 
Transparency/Accountability 
Anishnaabe Constitution understanding and awareness 
Emergency planning 
Conflict of Interest issues are managed by band employees.  
Would love to see SON hire someone into an Ombudsman position which would be responsible for resolving issues fairly within both communities. 
Recognize how Nepotism is a real problem here on Neyaashiinimiing.  
Accountability in policies already in place. 
Communication skills 
Have councillors really connect with all members not their families only  
Our community is so corrupt and it’s just a standard thing you live with. 
Election code 
Financial accountability 
Stay in the community.  If you want to travel and get per diem, don’t be on council 
Creating economic jobs for nonindigenous peoples to hold – in leadership is a failure. 
Continued transparency from Chief and Council. Offer meeting both in-person and virtually. Since Covid this has become the new way and there is no reason to abandon on-line meetings.  
Development of GOOD leaders 
Communication-everything needed to inform community members from all levels of leadership.  
Transparency and accountability: show us the audits, put ALL minutes, policies, audits, processes and procedural documents in-line, digital use everything, use a members only website portal.

Lands and Rights 

Keeping proponents accountable and on their toes 
Settling land claims 
Land & Environmental Stewardship  
More consultation with membership. Everyone should have a voice and an opportunity to participate. 
Ensuring that everything they do and every decision they make is rooted in ceremony, on the land and with the people.  
Land/water settlement 
Lands and water 
End land hoarding!!!!

Housing and Infrastructure 

Housing, landfill/ garbage recycling upgrades, long-term care for our elderly  
infrastructure development AND management/care 
Assistance in proposal writing for houses that are in need of repairs 
Roads paved not the park for nonnatives to enjoy 
Landscapes for all members   
Housing – Members living outside of our community.   
Make signs bilingual 
Building infrastructure 
More housing, rentals 
Infrastructure roads, and safe buildings for all staff/community  
More housing, build a new band office, education 
Housing (not just Habitat Housing)
Buy off lands at a tangible price not market value. In the end the Crown owns the rights to the lands. Not everyone fits the criteria for Habitat housing, nor wants Habitat housing.
Better cell and internet services

Health and Wellness 

1.5 hr paid move your body initiative 
Health and well-being are important because of the neglect of community members. 
Medical needs 
Ensuring members (on and off reserve) easily have access to health, child, social and legal services 
Health plan for community to include Primary Care in the Community. 
Develop recreation department. 
Delivery for seniors at the food bank. This is a priority. 
Mental health.  
Building services to support health and well-being and prioritize addressing mental health and addictions. 
Comprehensive Community Health plan that prioritizes mental health and addiction service and incorporates traditional healing and wellness (Indigenous doctors working alongside healers). 
Social services. Developing policies that promote a better standard of living.  
Senior assistance 
Addiction supports 
Health-everything pertaining to health in all 7 Stages of Life. 
Formalized recreational program within the community for our children 
Support for our youth, Elders and vulnerable people 
Make mental and emotional wellbeing of all of our community members and give opportunity for people to take care of their trauma, decolonizing our minds, our policies, and our education.   
Programs to protect and nurture children 
A healthy and contributing nation 
Start a harm reduction strategy and outreach in the territory that includes detox and healing lodge, home visits with nurses and wholistic care from spiritual people working together.

Education 

If we want to invest in the future open the door to younger generations to become educated and bring this knowledge to the community for the greater good. 
Education-everything that is needed to learn and thrive.  
Education  
Education needs, 
Capacity building, succession planning, build that capacity from our membership.  Stop using education as a barrier to building that capacity. Utilize our members and train them! 
Education 
Beef up the education fund to reflect the cost-of-living increase. Housing and food are not getting cheaper for students. They should not have to struggle while attaining higher education that benefits us all in the end.

Culture and Language

Bringing back the Anishnaabemowin language 
Cultural- everything needed to preserve, provide, promote history and culture.  
Language revitalization for ALL members 
Language classed over zoom and in-person, do immersion programs, develop an app. 
Culture- the building and environments do not reflect culture and language  
Culture revitalization. More opportunities for language classes, hunting retreats to teach those who want to learn, traditional plant harvesting and identification workshops (get back to what we do best). So many members have this knowledge, offer them compensation to teach others in the community both on and off reserve. Dancing workshops, which are offered on other reserves. Teach the next generation.  
Helping those that have lost a sense of love for culture and language feel as though they have accessible resources to find a love and appreciation for it again 
Language 
Cultural 
Make youth and children a priority by providing a healthy well-being through a Anishinaabe cultural foundation

Off-reserve Members 

Focusing on including off reserve band members in all aspects of the CCP. ALL of our members deserve to feel like they are included in the same perks that on reserve members receive.  
All membership  
Off reserve memberships 
More support of off-reserve members