Online Training
ONWAA develops E-Learning courses in a variety of areas. The First Nation Delivery Agents may request specific learning topics for their staff. These can be delivered either through full courses or through micro-sessions on various topics via webinars. These sessions are approximately 1 hour in duration and provide an overview of various special topics. Invitations to webinars will be sent to Administrators via email. Administrators can register their staff.
FNSSAC
The First Nation Social Services Administrators’ Certificate program accredits six university credits and is a 4-module certificate offered in partnership with Algoma University. It provides participants with the knowledge and tools to administer the Ontario Works program in their respective communities. Whether new to the field or experienced, graduates find the program to be an asset to grow their skillset in their roles.
“I have been in my position for over a year as a caseworker and I have gained more information on how to better serve my fellow community members.”
FNSSAC Alumni
“I have gained more confidence in my dealings with the OW personnel.”
FNSSAC Alumni
Homemakers
The Homemakers program is intended to provide support services in the home to those individuals who would otherwise be unable to remain at home. The homemaking service is used to assist people, who are elderly, ill or recovering from an illness within their residence through a defined range of services, to remain in their home and community.
WebEx Workshops
ONWAA offers once a month WebEx Workshops to keep members informed and up to date on best practices. These two-hour workshops feature various aspects of the Ontario Works program and walk administrators through processes step-by-step. It is a valuable professional development opportunity available to all members.
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In-Person Training
Training and development of social assistance offices is ONWAA’s primary purpose and the majority of the work we complete. ONWAA is committed to addressing training and development needs for the membership. Upon request, ONWAA has several off the shelf products to be delivered or we can design custom training and development to meet your needs. Contact us at [email protected] and we can discuss areas of concern and ideas with you to ensure that we deliver appropriate material, directed at the right target audience with the right mix of supports for your team.
Head Office
ONWAA researches and conducts analysis of all provincial and federal policy changes or introductions. Conclusions are communicated to the Ontario Indian Social Services Council and the ONWAA membership during semi-annual assemblies.
Regional Training
ONWAA provides innovative and collaborative training to First Nations by region when requested by the membership. ONWAA will work with the regions First Nation Ontario Works Administrators to develop diverse and localized custom training for their staff.
Energy Office
ONWAA no longer operates an energy office. ONWAA’s Executive Director oversees our new sister company called Ishkoday. Their energy team takes care of applications, training, and service. All ONWAA members receive complimentary membership to Ishkoday. For more information, please visit ishkoday.ca.
Assembly
ONWAA holds one province-wide assembly every Fall. It is a time to gather, collaborate, learn and grow together in person. Members share that it is their favourite event of the year. ONWAA members receive a 66% decrease in registration fees for assembly, which concentrates on providing quality training and professional development excellence.
On-Site
Upon request, ONWAA will design presentations that are specific to the First Nation Social Services Administrators’ needs. ONWAA is committed to addressing training needs for the membership.
Visit our Events page to view our upcoming training sessions.
Additional Services
For over 53 years, ONWAA has established a reputation as a leader in customized design and training in the delivery of social programs. ONWAA engages a wholistic approach and delivers culturally appropriate training. ONWAA’s accomplished and experienced staff can provide customized products to meet your needs through use of technology or for delivery onsite.
There is an annual membership fee per community in Ontario, based on caseload size. ONWAA also secures various projects to provide specialized training and services to First Nations through contracts. These services are available to all First Nations in Ontario and occasionally outside Ontario, dependent on the contract.
First Nations, delivery agents or other entities may engage ONWAA to provide customized training and speciality services on a fee for service basis. Fee for services are offered at relatively lower rates to ONWAA members. Non-members can expect to pay $2500/day plus actual travel costs to utilize our staff, training and resources. Membership receive significant discounts on the daily training rate.
Policy Analysis
ONWAA staff review and dissect policy issues that may affect a First Nations delivery agent. They provide potential solutions to upcoming policy changes as well as advocacy on behalf of the membership.
Resources
ONWAA develops many resources to help with program delivery. Resources include: job aids, training workbooks, supplementary forms, brochures and client marketing strategies.
Help Desk
ONWAA offers a call-in help desk available to members. ONWAA can help with Ontario Works policy interpretation and other social program questions. The help desk can be reached at 1-877-291-7542. The Help Desk is open 8:30 EST to 4:30 EST daily, with coverage until 5:30 EST when staffing permits.
Kay Taylor Bursary
Applications are to be received by December 31st each year. The bursary is $1000.00 and will go to a student in their final year of post-secondary studies in either Community, Economic and Social Development or Social Work. Those wishing to apply must provide a letter of application as well as confirmation from your post-secondary institution that you are in your final year. We will also review supporting documents should you choose to send them with your application letter. Letters of application with your other supporting documents should be labelled as Kay Taylor bursary and emailed to [email protected].
Awards
There are three awards that recognize the significant community contributions and dedication of members. The Gabrielle Kakegamic Memorial Award, Homemaker’s Coordinator of the Year, and Jody R. Waddilove Memorial Award are open for nominations each August and are presented at the annual Fall Assembly.