Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council has launched the Blackfoot Confederacy Jordan’s Principle Caregivers Survey as part of its Health Co-management (HCoM) initiative. The survey is intended to gather information directly from Blackfoot Confederacy caregivers about their experiences accessing Jordan’s Principle supports for children under the age of 18. The initiative focuses specifically on members of the Blackfoot Confederacy Nations who have sought Jordan’s Principle services within the last five years.

Jordan’s Principle was created to ensure First Nations children receive the services they require without delay or disruption due to jurisdictional disputes. While the principle is intended to remove barriers, the Blackfoot Confederacy is undertaking this survey to better understand how the process is functioning for its own members. The goal is to document both challenges and successful outcomes experienced by Blackfoot families navigating the system.

The survey asks caregivers to share information about their experiences submitting requests, the timelines involved, the types of services requested, and the outcomes of those requests. Collecting this information will help identify patterns and systemic issues affecting Blackfoot children and families. The findings will support the development of evidence-based recommendations aimed at improving coordination, responsiveness, and accessibility for Blackfoot Confederacy members.

Participation in the survey is voluntary and anonymous. It takes approximately 15–20 minutes to complete. The data collected will be handled in accordance with OCAP principles — Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession — ensuring that the information remains under the stewardship of First Nations leadership in Alberta and is used only for the purposes of this evaluation. The initiative is directed through the Health Co-management structure and overseen by its Co-chairs.

The survey is open exclusively to caregivers who are members of the Blackfoot Confederacy Nations and who have requested Jordan’s Principle services for a child within the past five years. The Confederacy is encouraging eligible caregivers to participate so that the experiences of Blackfoot families are accurately reflected in the data.

To acknowledge the time of participants, caregivers who complete the survey may choose to enter a draw for several appreciation prizes, including an iPad, one $200 gift card, and three $100 gift cards.

The survey is available online at:
https://srvy.pro/081FPH7/

Or by scanning the QR Code provided on the attached poster below. It will remain open until April 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM MST. Draw winners will be notified on May 4, 2026.

Information gathered through the survey will contribute to a clearer understanding of how Jordan’s Principle is operating for Blackfoot Confederacy families and will inform future efforts to strengthen access to services for Blackfoot children across the Confederacy.

For additional information regarding the survey or the evaluation process, contact:

Travis Yellow Wings,
TravisY@blackfootconfederacy.ca

Buffy Bromley-Grier
BFC Health Coordinator
BuffyB@blackfootconfederacy.ca

Appointment of Charles (Charlie) Weaselhead Jr. (Taatsiikiipoyii) as Health Advisor/Director

The Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Charles (Charlie) Weaselhead Jr. (Taatsiikiipoyii) as Health Advisor/Director. A respected leader from the Kainai-Blood Tribe, Mr. Weaselhead brings over forty years of experience in health governance, administration, and policy. His appointment aligns with the priorities of the Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot Confederacy) and contributes to advancing the health and well-being of the Blackfoot Nations.

Throughout his career, Mr. Weaselhead has held leadership positions at Napi Lodge and Poundmaker’s Lodge treatment centers, the Blood Indian Hospital, and as Chief Executive Officer of the Blood Tribe Department of Health. As Chief of the Blood Tribe (2004–2016), he worked to advance First Nations health at both regional and national levels. His service as Chancellor of the University of Lethbridge from 2019–2023 strengthened his commitment to Indigenous leadership, education, and the well-being of the Niitsitapi and surrounding communities.

As Health Advisor/Director, Mr. Weaselhead will guide the Blackfoot Confederacy Nations with a focus on culturally relevant health governance and community-led initiatives. He will also support efforts to address the systemic priorities of the Siksikaitsitapi. His expertise will help develop sustainable frameworks that align with the health needs of the Blackfoot Nations.

The Tribal Council recognizes Mr. Weaselhead’s knowledge and leadership in health governance. His appointment reinforces the Council’s commitment to developing practical, culturally grounded solutions that serve the health needs of current and future generations of Blackfoot people.

2025 Blackfoot Confederacy Youth Gathering

Oki,

The Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council invites Blackfoot youth to gather for the 2025 Blackfoot Confederacy Youth Gathering on Monday, February 17, 2025, from 9:00am – 4:00pm at Red Crow Community College, Kainai-Blood Tribe. This event is an opportunity to strengthen connections, hear from Blackfoot leaders, and take part in discussions on leadership, culture, and future opportunities. It marks the first in a series of annual youth gatherings rotating among Blackfoot Nations.

Keynote Speaker: Robert L. Doore, MBA

The Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council is pleased to welcome Robert L. Doore as this year’s keynote speaker. A respected member of the Blackfeet Nation, Mr. Doore has built a career in corporate leadership, professional sports, and Indigenous economic development, becoming the highest-ranking Native American in the NFL since Jim Thorpe. As President & CEO of Chief Mountain Sports and Consulting, he has worked to advance Indigenous representation in business, governance, and community investment. His insights on leadership, career development, and strategic growth will offer valuable knowledge for Blackfoot youth preparing for their futures.

Traditional Games Session – Good Movement

Good Movement – Traditional Games Session will be led by Tyler Strikes With a Gun (SWAG), Ty Provost, and Jason Plain Eagle. Good Movement, an award-nominated health and wellness company, promotes fitness, sport, nutrition, and traditional teachings as a way to build strength and resilience. Youth will have the opportunity to learn and play traditional Blackfoot games, including Run and Scream, Double Ball, Hoop and Arrow, and Hoop and Stick.

Event Schedule Highlights

• Morning: Pipe Ceremony, Chiefs’ Address, and Youth Panel Discussion
• Afternoon: Keynote Address by Robert Doore and Traditional Games Session

There will be many door prizes and promotional items for registrants, including Apple AirPods, Apple and Amazon gift cards, Visa gift cards, and more. Information booths from across the Blackfoot Confederacy will also be available to connect youth with programs and opportunities.

For registration, infotmation booth opportunities, or further inquiries, contact Travis Yellow Wings at TravisY@blackfootconfederacy.ca or visit www.blackfootconfederacy.ca.

The Siksika Recovery Centre is a $35-million investment that will add 76 long-term treatment beds in the region. In total, these beds will support 300 people every year in their pursuit of recovery. The Siksika Recovery Centre is now entering the construction phase with completion expected in 2026.

“Siksika Nation is grateful for this support from Alberta’s government. Countless lives will be changed because of the partnership we have built around recovery,” said Nioksskaistamik Chief Ouray Crowfoot.

This new facility is a key part of the Alberta Recovery Model, which adds 10,000 treatment spaces and expands the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program over the past five years.

For more information: https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm…