Needs Assessment Reaches Out to Indigenous Communities
Beginning in April 2022, the Indigenous Centre for Cumulative Effects (ICCE) has been hosting community forums as part of a National Needs Assessment for the organization that will better inform its strategic planning, and ultimately the future of the organization.
A key objective of the Needs Assessment is to assess the ongoing need in Indigenous communities for awareness and education around cumulative effects. The needs assessment will also help inform the development of new and effective tools, capacity building and supports to address cumulative effects.
“There is nothing as important as supporting Indigenous communities in building their knowledge and skills in addressing cumulative effects,” said Leea Litzgus, Executive Director of ICCE. “The needs assessment is a means of engaging the community in determining how we can best support First Nations, Métis and Inuit in improving the health and well-being of the land, the water, the air and the people.”
Early results of the needs assessment indicate that there is a growing understanding of cumulative effects. Practitioners are committed to learning more about how cumulative effects impact the lives of Indigenous community members. However, more can be done to develop more effective and practical tools for practitioners.
“We are encouraged by the dialogue so far, and in particular, the apparent need for new tools to assess, mitigate and manage cumulative effects,” said Ms. Litzgus. “I look forward to further outreach and conversations with elders, knowledge holders, youth, and Indigenous leadership across the country.”
The outcome of the needs assessment will help determine the future role of ICCE in supporting these community needs. A final report will be created by the end of 2022.
There are two distinct phases of the Needs Assessment, both involve substantial input and participation by First Nations, Métis and Inuit across the country.
- Phase 1: Focussed Dialogues – Conversations focused on reaching key subject-matter experts who actively work on cumulative effects. This includes the Board of Directors, Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) members, and those who have taken part in the ICCE Community Funding Program.
- Phase 2: Regional Community Dialogues – Conversation focussing on reaching First Nations, Métis Councils and Inuit communities from coast to coast to coast, including developing new relationships with potential regional partners.
Phase 2 is scheduled to begin in early Fall 2022. Communications and invitations will be sent to First Nation, Metis and Inuit governments as well as Tribal Councils to participate in regional sessions held across the country.