Melissa McNeil

Edmonton,AB

Summary

Dynamic Indigenous Knowledge Keeper at REACH Community Health Centre, adept in cultural competency and crisis intervention. Successfully advocated for essential services, enhancing community access and support. Skilled in conflict resolution, I facilitated cultural understanding, significantly improving service delivery outcomes for Indigenous community members.

Overview

years of professional experience

Work History

Indigenous Knowledge Keeper

REACH Community Health Centre

Vancouver, British Columbia

10.2024 - Current

Delivered cultural teachings to Indigenous community members accessing REACH Community Health Centre services.
Advocated for access to essential services and supports for Indigenous community members.
Facilitated cultural understanding among REACH staff to improve service delivery outcomes.
Supported elders in providing traditional practitioner services to community members.
Networked with Indigenous organizations to strengthen community partnerships.
Instructed women's group facilitator on conducting Women's Full Moon Ceremony monthly.
Provided one-on-one support, including informal counselling, to Indigenous community members.
Completed monthly reports outlining outreach and engagement activities.

Circle Facilitator

Dnaagdawenmag Biinoojiyag Child and Family Services

Whitby, Ontario

04.2020 - 11.2024

Utilized effective communication skills to resolve conflicts among participants.
Contributed to development of curriculum materials aligned with culturally relevant traditional teachings.

Indigenous Liaison Officer

Correctional Services Canada

Abbotsford, British Columbia

12.2023 - 08.2024

Facilitated cultural support sessions between Indigenous male inmates and elders.
Conducted daily smudging and prayer circles for inmate well-being.
Assisted inmates in developing correctional plans, incorporating traditional elements.
Supported elder-led ceremonies to enhance spiritual growth among inmates.
Documented inmate reviews and maintained accurate records of progress.
Collaborated with parole officers and mental health staff to ensure comprehensive care.
Attended team meetings and briefings, providing essential reports on inmate status.
Coordinated with external resources to expand support options for inmates.

Education

Some College (No Degree) - Mental Health And Addictions

Canadore College of Applied Arts And Technology

North Bay, None

Some College (No Degree) - Life Coaching Certification

George Brown College

Toronto, None

Skills

Cultural competency
Crisis intervention
Case management

Client advocacy
Mental health support
Conflict resolution

References

References available upon request.

Timeline