Social Supports

The Gitksan Government Commission (GGC) has a Social Development Policy. This policy is for the member communities of the GGC, including Gitanmaax, Gitanyow, Glen Vowell and Kispiox, to guide and assist in the delivery of the social development program on reserve.

Under the multi-year funding agreement GGC in partnership with the bands made changes to the existing AANDC Social Development policy guidelines. This revised policy manual (2006) focuses on the unique needs of the Gitksan communities and better reflects their goals and objectives. It will eventually incorporate the traditional roles and responsibilities of the House and Clan system in caring for all members and residents of each community.

This policy manual has been thoroughly reviewed in detail through a series of meetings including Chief Councillors and their invited Band Council representatives, in collaboration with the GGC Social Development Advisor and each Band’s Social Development Staff.

This policy manual provides consistency and adherence to the multi-year agreement as signed by all four Bands. As such, it is applicable to all four Band Councils, their Community Social Development Committees, their administration staff and the Band members. Any changes to the Manual in future will require the agreement of all four Bands as represented by their Chief Councillors on the GGC Board.

Sandra Martin Harris, is the Advisor for the Social Development at Gitksan Government Commission and works closely with each of the community Band Social Development Workers and administration to implement the social development program.

Program Developer Role
Oversees the development, facilitation, coordination and administration of all aspects of the innovative social reinvestment strategy, "Bridges to Sucess" project now completed. An evaluation of this social reinvestment strategy will be completed soon and posted when available.

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GGC Social Development Advisor provides technical and administrative support, trouble shooting to the Band Social Worker and Band administration by:

• Organizing regular meetings to review policy, case management and troubleshooting
• Community visits, social planning and development of community profiles
• Work with Social Workers in preparation for program Audit Reviews
• Provide case consultation on complex cases
• Advise on and process formal appeals from Band members
• Interpret and clarify policy for both Social Workers, Administration and Band members

Monitor the Social Development Program and funding provided to communities by:

• Reviewing monthly reports submitted to GGC to ensure policies and proceedures are adhered to;
• Complete and submit quarterly and annual reports as required to AANDC as required
• Ensure reports and proposals for funding are submitted accurately and on time
• Provide training assistance and file maintenance as may be needed
• Sandra is available to meet with Chief and Council to discuss the Gitksan social development policy.