Ruby Jacobs

Ruby Jacobs

Health (2013)

“Empower yourself, you can beat the odds and achieve desired personal goals.”

As past Director of Health Services for the Six Nations of the Grand River, she retired in 2007 after 13 years. As Director, Jacobs led the development of 21 community health initiatives, building the departments from only four staff members to well over 200. This growth resulted in the establishment of the Birthing Centre entitled Tsi Non:We Ionnakeratstha in Mohawk meaning “A place to be born” and Ona:grahsta in Cayuga meaning “birthing place.” Others include ambulance services, programs for long term care/home care, mental health, health promotion, healthy babies/healthy children, social development, sexual health and dental care. She was instrumental in the establishment of Ganohkwasra which has an international reputation for the programs and services offered for family assault support. She also oversaw the completion of the White Pines Wellness Centre and as a result Six Nations was awarded a Satellite Dialysis Unit by the Ministry of Health. Post-retirement, Jacobs continues her commitment and involvement in the health and well being of Indigenous people in her community.