North End Community Helpers Network Together We Are Stronger North

North End Community Helpers Network

Guidebook – Together We Are Stronger

1 (Even Awesomer) May 2012

North End Community Helpers

Network

Guidebook

TOGETHER WE ARE STRONGER

(Even Awesomer)

May 2012




Introduction & History The North End Community Helpers Network is a unique blend of community members, volunteers, staff and mentors, working to improve the lives of those living in the North End of Winnipeg. This “coming together” at the grassroots is seen as a community solution to supporting one another. The group, originally founded as a support network for a few community members working at Aboriginal Visioning, Native Women’s Transition Centre, Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata, and

Mount Carmel Clinic, has rapidly grown to include over 90 “helpers”, affiliated with more than 30 organizations, and, including many valued community members. It is now seen as an opportunity to collaborate and share – making our individual efforts stronger, by working together. A fifth annual strategic planning retreat was held at Windy Hill Learning & Wellness Centre, May 3rd and 4th, 2012, with 13 helpers. The following document reflects the thoughts and wisdoms of the collective helpers. An “awesomer” reflection of who and what the Network is.

Vision

A proud, safe and diverse community working together

Mission

To create connection, wellness and unlimited opportunities to learn and contribute in a holistic and meaningful way




The Values and Principles We Hold The North End Community Helpers Network is a value and principle-based collaboration. It seeks to always work with honour and respect – with those that we serve, and with those that serve with us. The principles that we hold as our guides, are:

We value humility - there are no egos involved in the Network – they must be left outside of the circle;

Everyone contributes what they can and does the best that they can. All contributions are equally valued, and we do not seek to live by others’ expectations;

We work together and do not seek to create division;

We will act in the present, plan for the future, and acknowledge and honour the

past;

All of our actions will be respectful, without the harm of gossip, innuendo (hint or suggestion that something or someone is at fault or wrong), or dishonesty;

The Network is inclusive and works against marginalization (works to ensure all are

included and especially those sometimes forgotten in society);

We recognize that we must take care of ourselves before we can take care of others;

We acknowledge our limitations; at the same time will work hard to find other solutions and resources;

Our work is carried out with consideration for the whole self; and,

We are guided by experience, teachings of our Elders, and, all forms of expertise

and education.




What Does the Network Mean to its Members? The Community Helpers Network contributes to the work that we do individually, through recognition that we are not alone – that there are others that hold the same values and principles; and, as members of a Network, there is a value that is added to our individual efforts:

We celebrate our diversity and that of our North End community;

Together we can reach a larger number of our community members, and provide them with a more diverse set of opportunities to build skills and share experiences;

We can share our ideas and our ways of doing things; learning from each other – build and use best practices for the North End and other communities;

We can share our gifts, talents and expertise to collaborate in ways that build

greater capacity to serve within the North End and other communities;

Working together can build confidence and inspire community members to seek positive change, with recognition that there are many working together;

Networking provides the means to keep informed, to learn of what others are doing

– avoiding duplication of effort and generating more opportunities to partner;

Networking brings the opportunity to share resources and multiply the impact of our individual actions;

Being together under the same values provides a place of grounding and stability –

personal strength by knowing someone understands and cares;

Our circle is a safe place to build confidence, express our passion and find our voices;

The visibility of our efforts is magnified by working together on common activities

and events;

We take care of ourselves through friendship and laughter; and,

Building and maintaining relationships provides a sense of belonging, and recognition that we all are a part of an extended North End family.




In May 2012, the Network Means…




Roles of the Network The Network has several roles that it uses to support its members and its community. Key roles include:

We, individually and collectively, serve as role models/mentors in support of others working, living and volunteering in our community;

To strive to be a resource for all those who are seeking information and experience

regarding Aboriginal ways of being;

To serve as an advocate for change, providing a collective voice and wisdom;

To create and maintain a pool of shared knowledge;

To celebrate the rainbow of diversity and culture within our community;

To form effective, community-driven partnerships based on collective knowledge of our community;

To serve as a source of collective community action on needs as they emerge;

To connect organizations at the grassroots, a unique blend of community members, volunteers, staff and mentors; and,

To welcome others to the network who are like-minded; to be open, accessible and accepting.




Business of the Network

STRUCTURE

Executive Agreed that Debra Diubaldo would continue as the Chair with Kristi Havens joining

her as Vice Chair in a mentee capacity The role of the Chair is to be the face of the network; cheque signer; media contact

(which she may designate others depending on the event); proposal “putter inner” The role of the Vice Chair is to be mentored by the chair; spokesperson for network

(same as Chair); one day to be Chair if Chair unable to perform duties; cheque signer The role of the Secretary/Treasurer is to record and communicate the minutes of

meeting; monthly financial reports, budgeting and banking

Financial Policies & Review A financial policy committee was establishing in 2012 to determine financial policies

for the network. Membership on the committee is Jenna Leskiw (Secretary/Treasurer); Debra Diubaldo (Chair); Kristi Havens (Vice Chair), Jessie Leigh (Member) and Jean Pelletier (Member).

It was further agreed in 2012 that a financial review would be done by external source for transparency purposes

Cheque Signing /Authorization All cheques must be signed by either the Chair, Vice Chair or the

Secretary/Treasurer and one other signer (2 signatures required for each cheque)

No signer must sign a cheque to self or family members Signers to be: Debra Diubaldo (Chair); Jenna Leskiw (Secretary/Treasurer); Kristi

Havens (Vice Chair); Jessie Leigh (Member) Jenna Leskiw to organize getting new signers on board with credit union

Banking Agreed Jenna Leskiw would explore internet banking options with ACU




Steering Committee for Aboriginal Visioning Network is a member of the Steering Committee for Aboriginal Visioning; Debra

Diubaldo as Chair of the Network is the sitting member; there is a level of discomfort due to relationship with Jenna Diubaldo; it was agreed that Kristi Havens (Vice Chair) would attend steering committee meetings with Debra Diubaldo for an interim period and then allow Debra to slowly phase out. Debra Diubaldo to advise steering committee.

Sustainability Aboriginal Visioning is integral to the work of NECHN and the work of NECHN is

integral to Aboriginal Visioning

Network organizations are stepping up their respective commitments to NECHN Important to involve the executive directors of member organizations in strategic

planning of the network; important to stay positive so they see the value of NECHN

In some instances, the work of NECHN is included in some members’ job description

Outreach Committee In 2012, an outreach committee what established to reach out to organizations not

currently involved with NECHN (i.e. not on Selkirk strip). The committee is seen as an organized way of following up on membership. Important to always keep in mind that the network is made of “like-minded people working towards similar goals in similar ways”.

Membership on the outreach committee includes: Rachel Wood, Jackie Van Leeuwen, Kristi Havens and Debra Diubaldo.




NETWORK MEETINGS

It was agreed that: Each monthly meeting is hosted by a rotating host from one of the network

members, who takes responsibility for the agenda, refreshments etc.

The purpose of the monthly meetings is to: Get together and talk and share information/resources Sub-committee updates

It was agreed that there would be a regular agenda with Network connecting

scheduled during the first hour and the planning work with committee reports etc. reserved for the latter part of the meetings; further agreed that a “support circle” would be a final agenda item.

Important to have more members attending; some members take opportunity to share their information and then leave the meeting – need to be more respectful and remain to listen for all to share

It was agreed to have the last meeting of each quarter on a Tuesday evening to encourage more community engagement (meetings normally occur on the second Friday afternoon of the month); hosting member will determine where

Network meetings will be hosted by the following members for the upcoming year: June Winnipeg Public Library July (5-7pm) North End Family Centre August Aboriginal Visioning (BBQ @ Kildonan Park) September NECRC October (5-7pm) Inner City Social Work November Mount Carmel Clinic

Next six meetings to be scheduled at this time.

December 2012 through May 2013 meetings to be scheduled at November 2012

meeting.

It was noted that it is important that each member be respectful at meetings; not interrupting or talking over each other; employing use of talking stick or use of a code word as a reminder; need to review ways of being when we meet (i.e. respectful) at beginning of each meeting




Hosting Monthly Meetings It was agreed that the monthly meetings would continue to be rotated at various sites in the community. It was also agreed that 15 minutes prior to each meeting, the host(s) would offer a tour of their community site for those interested. Each host of a monthly meeting is asked to: Gather agenda items; prepare the agenda; Book a location Have smudge available (if able to); have explanation of why we smudge Chair the meeting with an introduction of why the network meets and an overview

of ways of being when we meet (i.e. respectful) Provide a snack (if able to)

Sharing Circles (as needed)

Sharing Circles are separate and different from networking/committee meetings Sharing Circles are defined by the Network as:

Off the record Spiritual Comfortable Opportunity to express whatever you need to Off loading Sharing Listen

Annual Strategic Planning Retreat (celebrating its 5th annual retreat in 2012)

The annual retreat is a time to get together and celebrate the Network and to truly share and grow from each other. It is important that it be as strong an event as possible. The annual retreat would be stronger if we….

Invite more community members from network organizations Rotate the organization of the retreat (has been Aboriginal Visioning) to other

members; organizers from previous year assist/mentor this year’s organizers (i.e. Aboriginal Visioning will help Christie P from NPDWC to organize for 2013

Need to start submitting proposals for primarily facilitation costs to funders in January

Next retreat tentatively scheduled for May 2013 Added an extra time in 2012 for time just to be together – continue is subsequent

years Issue of last minute registration withdrawal needs to be address by next year –

causes the averaging of the costs of the retreat to increase dramatically for those in attendance

Therefore, it was agreed that in subsequent years, members would be required to submit a $100 non-refundable deposit with their registration. It is understood that each members’ organization has signed off beforehand.




CELEBRATIONS All celebrations supported by the NECHN are inclusive and celebration of community renewal. In 2012 it was suggested to give the Aboriginal Visioning Steering Committee heads up, well in advance for dates of all major events.

Lighting Up The Avenue (celebrating its 9th year in 2012)

Represents the only Christmas for some families (a real salvation for some) Most important celebration for Aboriginal Visioning – putting heart into it Really valued The crown jewel of activities While Aboriginal Visioning takes the lead and appreciates the help, to make this

celebration stronger, we will endeavour to…. Have more people involved to create a larger, core group Have more people volunteering from early in the morning, up to and

including the event Have more people available a few days before the event (putting up lights

etc.) Have network support Ask for donations throughout the year both inside and outside of the north

end (serves as a positive reinforcement of community to those not familiar with the north end)

Aboriginal Visioning will make it known specifically what help is needed and a timeframe for when

2012 was very successful; with an outstanding volunteer effort and support from network members!

Need a bigger space for 2012 (perhaps Inner City Campus or another AVNE Steering Committee location)

Volunteer Appreciation Dinner (celebrated its 5th year in 2012)

It was agreed that this event is a big effort and one that requires that the jobs to prepare and host the event be spread out more evenly. More organizations that honour their volunteers need to be actively participating. (Mount Carmel’s staff efforts were a shining example this year)

It was determined that there was sufficient interest and commitment by the various organization to continue hosting the dinner

2011 dinner was postponed until mid- March 2012 A very successful event with tremendous volunteer support; great space at IMFC;

perfect fit Suggestion for 2013 to have the specific time the event begins and ends on the

invitation along with the agenda; tree theme is growing; have Executive Directors on food line with name tags of indicating who they are and from where (make it clear to volunteers)




National Aboriginal Day – (celebrating its 2nd year in 2012)

First time organizing this event in 2011; very successful and well resourced Celebration community driven with community vision for the event The Selkirk Avenue Aboriginal Day Committee is planning an event at the IMFC As of beginning of May 2012, awaiting word on sponsorship dollars Need a consistent planning committee




Growing a Stronger Network

In May 2012, the members once again reviewed their efforts over the past year and identified two main goals that would be prioritize for 2012/2013.

GOAL 2012: Fundraise

The 2011/2012 goal to raise sufficient dollars to support the communications goals (purchase of promotional materials, website, etc.) was accomplished. Goal was to have $1000 in bank with a then balance of approximately $600. Currently have a surplus of approximately $3000 plus grant funds yet to be spent. New fundraising goal for 2012/2013 is to:

Have $ 5000.00 in bank this time next year

The goal for the 2012/2013 year is to fundraise to:

Ensure that community members can attend Windy Hill next year; and,

Help NECHN be more effective

Fundraising Committee

Jenna Diubaldo to chair; with plans to handing off chair next year Jean Pelletier to be approached to consider vice chair

Chair responsible to call fundraising committee meetings etc.; pull together stuff and call on members to help out; needs to share responsibility with committee members – distribute work evenly

Meetings are held on an as needed basis, at least quarterly

GOAL 2012: Communications

The goals for the 2011 year to implement a communication strategy that:

Produced promotional material including: brochure, T-shirts, posters, secret handshake , banners

Maintains NECHN Facebook site (www.facebook.com/nechn) Maintains NECHN Twitter account (www.twitter.com/NorthEndHelper) Maintains NECHN website (http://nechn.weebly.com) Jasmine Tara agreed to work specifically on helping to design the new membership

posters

http://nechn.weebly.com/




Communication Committee Chaired by Jenna Diubaldo Jasmine Tara to be vice chair; mentored by Jenna Diubaldo Chair responsible to call communication committee meetings etc.; pull together

stuff and call on members to help out; needs to share responsibility with committee members – distribute work evenly

Responsible for the filtering mailings – Jenna Diubaldo & Jenna Leskiw Responsible for maintaining Facebook page – Jenna Diubaldo Responsible for maintaining Twitter account – Jenna Leskiw, Jenna Diubaldo, Kristi

Havens, Jasmine Tara Responsible for maintaining website – Jenna Leskiw Meetings are held on an as needed basis, at least quarterly

GOAL 2012: 2013 CAVR National Conference Presenters

It was agreed that NECHN would make an application to the Canadian Administrators of Volunteer Resources (CAVR) to be presenters at the June 2013 national conference in Winnipeg. Kristi Havens and Christie Paul agreed to prepare the application.

GOAL 2012: Professional Development Opportunities

It was agreed that Melissa Omelan and Kristi Havens would work on professional development opportunities such as lunch and learn for the membership.

GOAL 2012: Volunteer Postings

It was agreed that all volunteer postings would be sent out through the NECHN network.




Other Business MEMBERSHIP

Work to have more of a balance in terms of gender (i.e. have more of the male members more active & encourage new males to participate)

Work to have more Elder participation (pass on the information to them and invite them to participate); currently have Elder Mae Louise Campbell on the Network

Debra Diubaldo to invite David Budd to join as an male Elder Work towards more youth involved

Need to work towards having more community members involved (decision to have a network meeting once a quarter in the evening will hopefully encourage more community members to attend)

It was agreed that:

Members of the executive need to be regular attendees; if a member of the

executive has three (3) consecutive, unexcused absences, their membership is considered withdrawn

The Communication & Outreach Committees would prepare a KIT for new members; each kit would have the handbook, list the responsibilities of being a member (active and accountable); organizations would be asked if they are willing to have a representative on the network and to participate and, as well, to be prepared to provide support letters

A membership drive would be undertaken, led by the Outreach Committee, once the KITS were prepared and each active network member would take the names of three organizations and forward KITS to them and follow up with an inquiry if they were still interested in participating, etc.

New membership lists would be updated; Membership would be those who are member organizations; members (from community) and those simply who wish to be on the mailing list; Secretary/Treasurer would be responsible for membership list updates

May 15th, 2012




Partnering Organizations/Groups Aboriginal Visioning for the North End Aboriginal Youth Opportunities Assiniboine Credit Union Circle of Life - Thunderbird House City of Winnipeg Community Unemployed Help Centre Community Education Development Association Dufferin Residents Association of Winnipeg Elizabeth Fry Society of Manitoba Elmwood Youth Employment Initiative

Families & Communities Together (Point Douglas Parent-Child Coalition) Grandmother Moon Lodge Indian Family Centre LiveSafe! Community Safety & Wellbeing Initiative Lord Selkirk Park Resource Centre Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre Manitoba Association of Volunteer Administration Mount Carmel Clinic Native Women’s Transition Centre Ndinawemaaganag Endaawaad North End Community Renewal Corporation

North End Family Centre North End Food Security Network North End Wellness Centre North End Women's Centre North Point Douglas Women’s Centre Oyate Tipi Cumini Yape PATH Resource Centre

Sage House SEED Winnipeg St. John’s Residents Association Tenant-Landlord Cooperation University of Manitoba Inner City Social Work Program

University of Winnipeg Urban & Inner City Studies Volunteer Manitoba Wahbung Abinoonjiiag William Whyte Residents Association Winnipeg Public Library Winnipeg Regional Health Authority Winnipeg Transition Centre

North End Community Helpers Network Together We Are Stronger North

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