Stoney Tsuu Ti'ina join forces

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Residents of the Morley reserves and the Tsuu Tina Nation will soon be able to take advantage of correction services that are community-based and cultural sensitive.

Chiefs of the Goodstoney, Bearspaw and Chiniki bands, along with the Tsuu Tina chief, recently signed an agreement with Alberta Solicitor General Stephen West to deliver the services through the Tsuu Tina/Stoney Corrections Society.

Incorporated in June, 1991, the society represents a unique partnership between the Tsuu Tina Nation and Stoney bands.

"The significance of this agreement is that our culture and traditions will be incorporated in the administration of corrections programs and the prevention of crime

in our communities," said society chairman Darrell Crowchild.

The society operates on the basis that aboriginal clients and communities have special problems and needs and aboriginals can best help aboriginals. The programs involve traditional aboriginal values and a sense of aboriginal heritage, which can bring more meaning to clients and the community.

The main programs the society will provide are crime prevention, probation services and a court worker.

Besides acting as role models, Elders will act as counsellors spiritual advisers

and will help offenders understand traditional values and customs.

The signing ceremony at the Nakoda Lodge in Morley included a graduation for four society employees. The staff are all aboriginals and include a crime prevention co-ordinator/project representative, court worker, probation officer and administrative support.