The Nenqayni Wellness Centre undertook an extensive research project to determine how it might assist referring communities in the development of effective continuing care (aftercare) programs for drug and alcohol addiction treatment clients. The qualitative research project used talking circles from three First Nations referring communities to gather data to be used to determine appropriate recommendations for significant change. The research methodology itself was used to further develop staff professional care capacity, enhance cross cultural teamwork and improve communications through the development of more team-based work systems.

The research conclusions and resulting seven recommendations addressed the needs of community workers and volunteers, focused on continuing care as a community-based service, outreach for communities, training for workers, communication, the continuing care plan, culture and spirituality. The willingness and enthusiasm of staff and community participants made clear the shared core values of the stakeholders and the communities that comprise the centre.

The Nenqayni Board approved an initial modest budget that would see various activities and interaction developed over the coming year with our referring communities. Planning is in the preliminary stages at this time but some of the activities will include:

• an annual brainstorming gathering to work with community representatives to plan ongoing activities
• a workshop for understanding client confidentiality and privacy of information issues as they relate to continuing care and barriers to communication
• development of "Continuing Care Tool Kits" - the program and contact information needed by communities and continuing care workers and volunteers
• changes to Nenqayni's brochures and promotional materials to highlight and enhance our partnerships with our communities
• some limited outreach and training activities as determined by the annual gathering and budget