1. Organizational Structure
– Corporate Entity: Operates as a social enterprise reinvesting surplus into programs and services that benefit the community.
– Executive Leadership: Overseen by the Onikanew, responsible for day-to-day operations and strategic direction.
– Advisory Committee: Provides guidance on strategic, cultural, and fiscal matters to ensure alignment with the mission and vision.

2. Advisory Committee Roles and Responsibilities
The Advisory Committee provides guidance and expertise in specific areas to support the social enterprise’s mission. Their roles are scoped to quarterly meetings unless otherwise specified, ensuring alignment with good Indigenous governance principles. They are a diverse group of community members, professionals, and cultural knowledge keepers. Members receive an honorarium that is determined among the group. While the Advisory Committee offers invaluable advice, the Executive Team retains final decision-making authority. This structure ensures accountability and aligns with governance best practices.

• Cadmus Delorme – Governance and Business Strategy
  Former Chief of Cowessess First Nation, renowned for his leadership in governance and advocacy for Indigenous well-being. Cadmus advises on governance frameworks and strategic business planning. He participates in quarterly meetings, offering insights to  support sound decision-making and long-term sustainability.
• Elder Larry Oakes – Traditional Healing and Medicines
  A respected Elder with extensive knowledge of traditional healing and ceremony.  Elder Larry shares wisdom on incorporating traditional healing practices and medicines into the enterprise. He participates in quarterly meetings, ensuring cultural and spiritual alignment with Indigenous traditions.
• Derald Dubois – Operational Advisement
  A seasoned executive leader with over three decades of experience in child welfare and First Nations community services. Derald provides strategic operational guidance and practical solutions, leveraging his expertise to ensure effective management and service delivery. He offers ongoing support beyond quarterly meetings, serving as a trusted advisor to foster collaboration and reduce the challenges of isolated decision-making.

This committee provides strategic guidance, ensures cultural alignment, and advises on fiscal and operational decision-making. Key roles include:

I. Governance Oversight:
a. Ensure the organization operates ethically, transparently, and sustainably.
b. Review and provide input on strategic goals and major operational decisions.

II. Cultural Guidance:
a. Ensure all services and programs are culturally safe and aligned with Indigenousvalues and practices.
b. Provide oversight on the integration of traditional healing practices.

III. Financial Advisory:
a. Review annual budgets and financial reports to ensure fiscal responsibility.
b. Advise on reinvestment strategies for surplus funds.

IV. Community Representation:
a. Act as a liaison between the corporation and the communities it serves.
b. Advocate for services that address identified community needs.

V. Dispute resolution:
If a dispute requires resolution through external arbitration, the Executive Team may call on an Elder or Advisor to explain their recommendations. However, ultimate responsibility remains with the Executive Team to uphold the organization’s integrity and autonomy.

3. Membership Criteria
Advisory committee members are selected based on expertise and community representation, including:
– Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
– Professionals in mental health, social work, or finance.
– Community leaders and representatives from client groups.
– Business or social enterprise experts.

4. Decision-Making Process
– Recommendations: Advisory committee recommendations are non-binding but heavily influential. Final decisions are made by the Executive Leadership.
– Consensus Model: Whenever possible, decisions are made through consensus.
– Regular Meetings: The committee meets quarterly, with additional meetings as needed.