The Journey of the Organization
The Journey of the Organization
Orientation Objectives
At the end of this section, you will be able to:
- Understand the benefits of knowing your health organization’s story.
- Identify major events, key milestones and transitions for the health organization.
- Identify key leaders who have contributed to the development of the health organization.
Why the Story Matters
Your health organization’s successes and adversities have shaped how it currently functions. Familiarizing yourself with the organizational story gives insight into strengths, healing journeys, and persistent challenges. Knowing this story builds respect for the work that came before and helps shape a stronger future.
Major Events, Key Milestones and Transitions
Key events—like moving into a new building, signing a Contribution Agreement, or weathering a major crisis—tell the story of how and why your organization evolved. One of the most important dates is when your community formally took responsibility for delivering health and wellness services.
What was the date your community formally took responsibility for health service delivery?
____________________________________________________________
What are some notable events, milestones and transitions you’ve learned about?
- _____________________________________________________
- _____________________________________________________
- _____________________________________________________
Maintain a record of key events. Your organization may already do this in its 5-Year Evaluation or Community Health Plan.
Major Events Record (Example Format)
| Year | Event, Milestone or Transition | Contributors |
|---|---|---|
| Year 0 | Community Needs Assessment and Health Transfer planning | Health Committee: ___, ___, ___ |
| Year 1 | Health Transfer from Health Canada | Health Director ___ |
| Year 2 | Moved into new Health Building | Health Director and Committee |
Health Organization Contributors
Your health organization exists because of the contributions of visionary community members—past Chief and Council, Board members, Elders, and volunteers.
Who are some notable contributors you’ve learned about?
- ________________________________________
- ________________________________________
Former Health Directors
Understanding the transition of Health Directors (and frequency of turnover) offers valuable insights into team dynamics and past challenges.
List the Health Directors who served before you (if known):
- Year 1 – ___________________________________________
- Year 2 – ___________________________________________
- Year 3 – ___________________________________________
- Year 4 – ___________________________________________
- Year 5 – ___________________________________________
Words of Wisdom: “Honour the road walked before you. Take care not to say anything negative about the work that was done before you. The work may have been done by staff who covered vacant positions.”
— Charlene Webb, Health Director, Kitsumkalum First Nation
Data Sources
Past documents like 5-Year Evaluations, Community Health Plans, annual reports, newsletters, and Board minutes can tell you a lot about the organization’s path.
Reflection Questions
- What has surprised you about your organization’s history?
- What can be celebrated from your organization’s past?
- What questions do you still have about its journey?
Helpful Resources & Links
- Past 5-Year Evaluations
- Community Health Plans
- Annual Reports and newsletters
- Social media archives
- Board meeting minutes
📬 Talk to a fellow Health Director about how they’ve learned their organization’s story and what tools they’ve used to preserve institutional memory.
