Jason McDonald Hired as Director of Community and Family Services
Nov 2, 2011
McDonald Continues Service to Tribe
The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe has a new director in its newly formed Community and Family Services division. Jason McDonald was recently hired to the position of Director of Community and Family Services. He was formerly the Program Manager of Tribal Vocational Rehabilitation (TVR). When the position for Director of Community and Family Services became open, the Tribe appointed McDonald as the interim director to the position. He took on the responsibilities as interim director for 10 weeks. “Congratulations to Jason on his new appointment,” said Tribal Chief Ron LaFrance. “I am happy to hear that he was selected and I know that he will do an outstanding job.”
McDonald served as the TVR Director for over 10 years before receiving the promotion and has worked for the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe for 12 years in a variety of capacities. Most of that work has centered on human services and disabilities. He attended and graduated from Salmon River Central School. “I’m glad to have gotten the promotion,” remarked McDonald. “But that’s only the first step; the real work is ahead. I’m looking forward to working with our team here to continue to provide these much-needed services to our tribal community and to look for ways to improve the delivery of those services.”
The Community and Family Services division oversees the TVR Program, Early Childhood Development Program (ECDP), and the Family Support Program with the three Individualized Residential Alternatives (IRA) homes as well as the Footprints program (a program to work with autistic children) and employs about 130 staff members. The division provides multiple services to families and individuals in the community.
“Jason is the right man for the job,” noted Tribal Chief Mark Garrow. “His experience, coupled with his people skills are important elements for success in his position. I offer my congratulations to him.”
This division plays a vital role in the health, safety and well-being of our community,” said Tribal Chief Randy Hart. “Without these services, we would not have the same quality of life here in Akwesasne.”
Jason is married to his wife Joanne and they have three children, ages nine, seven and four. He is a 17 year active member of the Hogansburg-Akwesasne Volunteer Fire Department, and was the charter President of Akwesasne Toastmasters. Jason enjoys riding his ATV, auto racing, playing cards, and spending time with his family.
For more information contact David T. Staddon, Director of Public Informaiton at 518-358-2272 ext. 286.