A holistic approach to Aboriginal economic development

Through the participatory-based work to date with the Aboriginal Literacy and Essential Skills Program (ALESP), it is quite apparent that fostering Aboriginal-driven economic development includes career, training and skills development (e.g., literacy and essential skills development) within an Aboriginal cultural framework – often referred to as a “holistic approach” to economic development. A holistic approach to economic development focuses on the integration of social, cultural, spiritual, ecological and financial interests as collective indicators and drivers for healthy communities and ultimately, healthy Aboriginal people.

In late June 2012, the National Aboriginal Economic Development Board (NAEDB) released “The National Economic Benchmarking Report.” Specifically, the report established a suite of benchmarks to measure socio-economic well-being for Aboriginal people (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) in Canada. Some of the indicators of particular note include, but are not limited to, employment, well-being, education, and business development.

For more information about the NAEDB report, click on the following links…

Press Release: http://www.naedb-cndea.com/index.php/news/press-release/

The National Economic Benchmarking Report: http://www.naedb-cndea.com/wp-content/uploads/TheAboriginalEconomicBenchmarkingReport2.pdf