The Health and Wellness Department at Qalipu First Nation has taken the first step in what will be a months-long project to develop a Strategic Plan to guide the future of health services with the Band.  A launch meeting with the Bands planning group along with the Business Development Organization (BDO), the successful proponent in a Request for Proposals for the Strategy that was issued last fall, took place late last week.

Mitch Blanchard, Director of the Health and Wellness Department, is leading the project and reports that he is looking forward to planning for the future and enhanced strategic direction for his growing group of employees.

“The intention of the Strategic Plan is to develop a vision for the future of health services, to better understand needs, service gaps, and priorities for health and wellness among our community members.  With the strategy in hand, we have a road map for the future that guides our work.  I’m looking forward to the process, and the outcomes of the strategic planning exercise.

Mitch noted that BDO will be reaching out to Band members and other stakeholders to inform the plan, to help determine priorities, programs and initiatives that are reflective of community need.

“We are hoping for a high level of engagement with the planning process and encourage Band members in particular to participate in survey’s and engagement sessions when the time comes.”

Brian Critch, Manager with BDO’s Advisory team, is leading the project delivery team and created the engagement strategy for the project.

“Our team is thrilled to be working with the Qalipu First Nation at this crucial juncture for the Health and Wellness Department. This initiative is especially timely with healthcare being the focus of discussions at all levels of government. We will be holding several town hall sessions throughout the membership regions to hear from members directly through the Spring, and all members will have several opportunities to provide their input either in person or online.”

The development of this strategy is part of the Band’s overall Strategic Plan, and will align with priorities identified in the Comprehensive Community Plan.