The Huli'tun Health Society (HHS), serving the Halalt and Lyackson First Nations on Vancouver Island, is embarking on a meaningful journey to refresh its five-year Community Health and Wellness Plan. More than just a document, this plan reflects a commitment to listening deeply, honouring culture, and building a stronger foundation for future generations.
Led by Health Director Maureen Wilson and the dedicated Board of Directors for HHS, the process began by reflecting on past plans and asking, “What worked well? What do we need to do better?" Board member Grant Robinson shared, “We looked at what went well last time, what community members brought forward afterward, and how they suggested we improve. We wanted to make sure we truly heard them."
Community engagement went far beyond surveys and emails. It included face-to-face gatherings, shared meals, and even plans for youth to go door-to-door to talk directly with members.
“We heard our Nation say they wanted us to engage in cultural ways, not just quick surveys or emails, but real, in-person connection," says Grant. “Meeting people where they're at."
Guided by culture
Culture has been central to evert step of the journey. Meetings began with a traditional speaker to set the tone and share intentions. Meals were blessed by Elders, and staff worked together behind the scenes with the same care to prepare for ceremony. Board member Kristen Thomas highlighted the importance of this approach, saying, “Our members are realizing that we're really listening. They feel heard and valued, and that's a powerful shift."
The journey has not been without its challenges, including budget limitations, busy schedules, and the difficulty of reaching members living away from home.
Board member Monica Johnny shared, “As a board, we want to do more, but we all have full-time jobs and family commitments. It's a lot of work, but it's worth it because we care so much about our community."
Maureen said that financial support from FNHA has played a big role in moving the work forward, from designing surveys and creating interactive tools to helping analyze feedback and providing tools and resources to complete the plan. “FNHA has been there every step of the way, not to write the plan for us, but to walk alongside us, support our ideas, and help bring them to life," she said.
Looking ahead, the team is excited to share the plan with community members and staff, and to continue building relationships rooted in trust and cultural strength. As Board member Jennifer Jones put it, “This plan isn't just a document. It's about going back to our cultural roots, rebuilding connections, and making sure our people feel that their voices truly matter."
A photo taken in front of the Huli'tun Health Society captures the Board and staff members together, a powerful image of a community grounded in culture and committed to working side by side to shape a healthier future for generations to come.
