Due to Covid-19 the Fraser River Indigenous Society offices open with appointments. We are modifying our programs during these times
FRASER RIVER
INDIGENOUS SOCIETY
family strengthening program
BUILDING STRONGER CONNECTIONS
The Family Strengthening Program is a short-term intervention program. The service start date commences on the day of the foundation meeting.
The program is open to Indigenous families whose members reside in the Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows area and are delivered in community or in a family home setting.
In-home support is utilized where risk is higher, or where barriers prevent the individual or family from participating in other programs.
FRIS employs 2 Family Strengthening workers that will be providing outreach services to families.
Family Strengthening manager
Martina
nenasheff
Family Development Manager
Martina is originally from Eastern Europe; however, since 2003, she calls Canada her new home. She feels honored to be a part of the FRIS team. Grounded in restorative policy and practice framework, Martina is dedicated to continually analyse, address, and challenge the systems and structures that cause and contribute to the oppressive treatment of individuals, families, and the community she
serves.
Martina completed her Diploma in Human Service Work at the Okanagan College, then earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Victoria and received Child Protection Certification through the Indigenous Perspective Society.
She brings in extensive experience from owning and operating a private business, followed by working with the at-risk population, as well as with children and youth with behaviour complexities, disabilities, and neurodiverse needs. Her most recent appointment was a Social Work position with the Splatsin Stsmamlt Services.
Fun fact about Martina: She often cooks as if she has 10 teenage boys at home (which she doesn’t) and will definitely mispronounce words so badly it will make you laugh, thanks to being ESL.
Family Strengthening Workers
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Stephen Schumacher
courtney
carmen
Family Strengthening Worker
He has completed his Family Community Counselling Diploma at the Native Education College, Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) Degree with the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) and continued with a Certificate with the Chemical Addictions program (CHAD) at NVIT.
In his career, he had worked as an ABI (Acquired Brian Injury) Community Support Worker, Mental Health Transition Worker, and Temporary Housing Program Coordinator/Housing Outreach Worker.
Some of his hobbies includes, chess, playing tennis, bike riding, and walking.
Family Strengthening Worker
Courtney’s educational background includes a Diploma in Social Services & and a Bachelor of Social Work, both received at the University of the Fraser Valley. She has been an active member of the Social Service community for over 8 years now and is passionate about creating a safe space for the people she works with. This ensures a positive relationship and promotes growth. She was born and raised in White Rock, BC, and still resides there. Fun Fact: If she’s not eating tacos or fish & chips at the beach, she’s actively playing baseball.
Ashley
gauley
Access Program Assistant
Hi! My name is Ashley, and I am a mother to a 3-year-old boy. I was born and raised in Maple Ridge, so a lot of my time is spent outdoors, taking in the beauty of the mountains surrounding us.
I enjoy taking the holistic approach to health and wellness by educating myself on how to fuel our mind, body & soul in the healthiest way possible. I am a spiritual being who recognizes we are all connected, and I strongly resonate with First Nations culture and values.
I am very thankful to work for FRIS and provide support and resources to all indigenous people in the community. Fun fact: My favourite places to visit are on the traditional territory of Katzie First Nation including Pitt Lake and Golden Ears.
Chelsea
Tobin
Supportive Access Worker
Chelsea is originally from Halifax, Nova Scotia (Kjipuktuk). She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Family Studies at Mount Saint Vincent University just before moving to BC in 2018. During university, Chelsea worked at a shelter for women and children fleeing domestic violence and co-authored a published journal article on gender-based violence with her professor. She also has a background in Social Work, having worked for the Squamish Nation's Child and Family Services Department on the Guardianship team. Chelsea has a passion for supporting children and youth placed in foster care with their connection to their families as well as to their community and culture. When she’s not working, she loves to go out into nature to find a new place to swim, walk, or practice hoop dancing.