Executive Director’s Message

Within this Annual Report, you will find highlights that reflect the dedication and continued growth of our teams of professionals who have committed themselves to ensuring that services are available within the community and accessible to the people we serve. The leaders and employees of the Family and Community Wellness Centre continue to demonstrate exceptional devotion, innovation, and commitment. They work tirelessly to not only advocate for but also develop more community-based services because we know there is always more that can and should be done to support the health and well-being of our people.

As we reflect on the 2025-2026 fiscal year, it is clear that a tremendous amount of work was accomplished. Our statistics and service numbers tell an important story of commitment, hard work, and meaningful impact. They demonstrate that many members of the Nation received services from our dedicated teams, and we take great pride in knowing that we were able to provide support during times of need. Our mission remains focused on strengthening and expanding services, and we look forward to building upon this work in the year ahead.

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank our employees. Without the dedicated individuals who make up the Family and Community Wellness Centre, we would not be able to provide services 365 days a year at the level and quality our community deserves. Your commitment, compassion, and professionalism are the foundation of our success, and for that I am deeply grateful.

Like many organizations, we continue to face challenges, including funding limitations, workforce recruitment, staff retention, and increasing demands for services. The world around us continues to evolve rapidly, requiring us to adapt and respond to changing circumstances and emerging community needs. Through ongoing assessment, evaluation, and monitoring of trends, we strive to make informed decisions and ensure that services are delivered based on evidence, needs, and community priorities rather than assumptions.

This year has taught us many valuable lessons. We have learned that by working together, keeping open minds, and approaching challenges with compassion and understanding, great accomplishments can be achieved. We have learned that change, while often difficult, is necessary for growth. Most importantly, we have learned that meaningful supports and services emerge when we listen to the people we serve and remain willing to modify our approaches to better meet their needs.

While the challenges before us are significant, we are confident that solutions can be found through a strengths-based approach that is community-driven and rooted in the traditions, culture, values, and language of our Nation. These foundations continue to guide us and remind us where our greatest strength exists as Indigenous people.

As Executive Director, I believe one of the most important areas requiring continued attention is the development and implementation of our own laws and legislation within the Child and Family Services framework through Bill C-92. This work represents an important step toward greater self-determination and ensuring that services reflect the values and priorities of our Nation.

In the coming fiscal year, we will continue to expand prevention-focused initiatives, strengthen community-based programming, and develop additional supports in both the Health and Child and Family Services sectors. There are many exciting projects currently underway, and it is truly inspiring to witness the innovative programs, services, and initiatives being developed by the leaders and staff of the Family and Community Wellness Centre.

During the past year, the Centre underwent both a Human Resources Organizational Review and a Financial Review. These exercises resulted in valuable recommendations that will help strengthen service delivery, address identified gaps and concerns, improve organizational effectiveness, and optimize our financial position to ensure that available funding is utilized responsibly and effectively. As we move forward, I am committed to ensuring that these recommendations are implemented and that meaningful improvements are realized across all areas of the organization.

I look forward to continuing to build strong relationships and partnerships that are essential to creating positive change for the people of Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation. Achieving sustainable improvements will require ongoing collaboration with Chief and Council, service delivery sectors throughout the community, and NCN organizations across Manitoba. Together, we are stronger and more effective in addressing the needs and priorities of our Nation.

I would also like to acknowledge the Board of Directors for their unwavering dedication and commitment to improving services for our community. Their leadership, guidance, wisdom, and support play an important role in helping shape the direction of the organization. Throughout my time working with the Board, I have seen a shared vision centered on the well-being of all NCN members, both today and for generations to come. Their collective experience, knowledge, and selflessness create a strong foundation for the continued success of the Wellness Centre.

As Executive Director, I remain committed to serving the people of Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation and Opiponipiwin Cree Nation Child and Family Services for as long as we are entrusted with carrying that mandate. I am deeply committed to the mission, vision, and values of the Family and Community Wellness Centre and to the services we provide.

While important work remains ahead, I am optimistic about the future and the opportunities before us. I am committed to strengthening service delivery and ensuring that the well-being of children, families, and community remains at the forefront of every decision and initiative undertaken by the organization. I recognize the responsibilities that accompany this role and remain dedicated to carrying them out with integrity, accountability, respect, and honour.

Finally, I would like to sincerely thank everyone who has supported and believed in the Family and Community Wellness Centre. I am grateful for those who continue to offer encouragement, positive thoughts, prayers, and spiritual guidance that help sustain the important work we do on behalf of our community.

In closing, although my time as Executive Director has been relatively short, I have already witnessed the remarkable dedication, compassion, and achievements of our teams. The accomplishments highlighted throughout this report reflect the collective efforts of many individuals who are committed to creating healthier children, stronger families, and a thriving community. I am confident that the best is yet to come, and I look forward to continuing this journey together.

Thank you,
Harmony Dumas
~ Executive Director
Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Family and Community Wellness Centre