As part of a full digital transformation initiative for Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, I led the redevelopment of the Nation’s website and the creation of a secure Member Portal. The build is now complete and slated for rollout in the coming weeks, marking a major step toward unified communications and secure digital engagement for members.
The project consolidated multiple communication channels, streamlined service delivery, and introduced a taxonomy-driven structure to ensure content could be filtered, searched, and reported on by department, life stage, and prevention level.
Structure & Taxonomy:
Using Advanced Custom Fields (ACF Pro) and Custom Post Type UI, I designed a modular content system that supports COTTFN’s community services and reporting frameworks. The taxonomy mirrors the Nation’s Annual Report and Child-Centric model:
Life Stage – categorizing programs by age group (e.g., Youth, Adult, Elder)
Prevention Level – aligning initiatives with the public health continuum (e.g., Primary, Secondary, Tertiary)
Service Category and Related Department – linking services to organizational and council mandates
This design ensures that every program and communication post is automatically grouped under relevant leadership principles, mandate areas, and departments for both web display and evaluation reporting
Member Portal & Role-Based Access:
To enhance member engagement while maintaining privacy compliance, I implemented MemberPress Pro for secure authentication and role-based access. The verification and access system includes:
Pending Member verification – internal staff review and approval process
Tiered roles – Members, Verified Members, Staff, and Council, each with distinct visibility permissions
Automated access rules and notifications – ensuring seamless user onboarding and document control
Members can log in securely to view governance media, documents, and council communications specific to their verified role.
Compliance & Backups:
The infrastructure includes automated database and file backups, SSL encryption, and user consent tracking through Gravity Forms Pro. All personal data retention follows explicit member consent, stored securely in compliance with privacy legislation and internal COTTFN protocols.
What It Proves:
Demonstrates the ability to manage large-scale online communications systems, produce service information, and design evaluation-ready digital structures that align with both operational and reporting needs.
