CYFN launches culturally-specific training for Yukon First Nations family support workers

By January 27, 2020News Release

FOR RELEASE
January 27, 2020

Yukon First Nations family support workers from across the Yukon are attending their first week of a new 10-month training program co-developed by the Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN) and Camosun College. The 18 participants represent 10 of Yukon’s 14 First Nations. This week’s intensive five-day orientation is dedicated to setting the foundation of the program.

The program is part of CYFN’s efforts to improve outcomes for Yukon First Nations families, specifically to reduce the number of Yukon First Nations children in the child welfare system. It will also increase the capacity of Yukon First Nations to address community needs.

First Nations instructors from Camosun College’s Department of Indigenous Education & Community Connections will provide the training alongside local Yukon First Nation professionals and local ‘Elder in Residence’ Betsy Jackson. Camosun’s Indigenous Family Support Program is a certificate program that “encourages students to reflect and develop self-awareness and pride as an Indigenous person by promoting experiential learning of Indigenous history and culture.” The Yukon version reflects the unique needs of Yukon First Nations communities.

Quotes

This course has been specifically designed to empower Yukon First Nations family support workers in their communities. They will learn how to incorporate traditional knowledge into their practices and learn strategies of self-care in light of the difficult situations they encounter on the job. It’s another important step towards increasing the capacity of Yukon First Nations to provide essential services for their citizens.

Council of Yukon First Nations Grand Chief Peter Johnston

This exciting collaboration brings together Camosun’s experience of delivering the Indigenous Family Support Program over the past 23 years with CYFN’s vision for capacity development of Yukon First Nations family support workers. The program focusses on Yukon First Nations teachings and ways of being to support the development of culturally-relevant frameworks of practice, while encouraging strong support networks amongst family support workers across the Yukon.

Ruth Lyall, College Coordinator, Department of Indigenous Education & Community Connections, Camosun College

Quick Facts

  • The Yukon First Nations Family Support Worker Training Program runs from January to December, 2020.
  • More than 40 applicants expressed an interest in the 18 available seats.

Contact

Juliann Fraser

Communications Advisor

Council of Yukon First Nations

867-393-9200, ext. 9223

Juliann.Fraser@nullcyfn.net