Darlene Courchene

Darlene Courchene

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority

Darlene Courchene, a distinguished professional in the realm of Child and Family Services (CFS), has left an indelible mark on the landscape of Indigenous child welfare and financial management. As the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the Northern Authority, Darlene has dedicated her career to ensuring the well-being of children in First Nations communities.

Darlene's journey in the field began in 1995 when she joined First Nations CFS. Over the years, she has seamlessly transitioned through various roles within prominent organizations such as Sagkeeng, Metis Authority, Animikii, ISC, and First Nations of Northern Manitoba CFS Authority. Her tenure as a Director of Finance involved overseeing a spectrum of responsibilities, ranging from payables to payroll and special rates. In this capacity, Darlene engaged with funders to secure essential resources, always with a steadfast commitment to meeting the needs of the children under Agency care.

Not content with merely managing financial aspects, Darlene took on a pivotal role in training agencies. Her approach involved sharing essential information to facilitate approvals from funders, guiding agencies in working out the required funding for comprehensive childcare and offering support on foster parent finance queries. Her personalized one-on-one support training sessions and active participation in meetings with agencies underscored her dedication to ensuring the success of those working alongside her.

Darlene's collaborative spirit extended beyond her immediate responsibilities. She worked hand-in-hand with funders to streamline funding approvals, fostering an environment of cooperation and understanding. Her ability to bridge the gap between financial intricacies and the needs of the community has been instrumental in achieving positive outcomes for Indigenous children.

Education has been a cornerstone of Darlene's career. A graduate of Herzing Career College with a focus on Systems Analysis and Design, she not only excelled in her studies but also returned to teach the course after graduation. Her commitment to continuous learning and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the CFS system funding has been a testament to her resilience and foresight.

In summary, Darlene Courchene's journey as a financial leader in Indigenous Child and Family Services showcases not only her professional acumen but also her unwavering dedication to the well-being of the children the agencies serve. Through her collaborative efforts, educational initiatives, and financial expertise, Darlene has become a beacon of inspiration for those seeking to make a lasting impact in the crucial field of Indigenous Child and family Services.