In 1996, HRSDC undertook a major policy shift by entering into a new three year relationship with Aboriginal peoples based upon the constitutional definition of Aboriginal peoples:  First Nations, Inuit, and Metis.  In 1997 responsibility for program design was transferred to Aboriginal Authorities.

By 1999 a new partnership arrangement was developed called the Aboriginal Human Resources Development Strategy. (AHRDS), a strategy which was part of Gathering Strength, the government response to the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples.  It was a five year (1999-2004) $1.6 billion policy and funding commitment to Aboriginal Employment.

At the heart of the Strategy are five-year agreements (AHRDS).  The signing of the AHRDAs represents a further evolution of  the relationship between HRSDC  and Aboriginal Organizations In British Columbia.  HRSDC signed 10 First Nation AHRDAs.  SNHRD has been developed as an organization to administer one of these agreements for the Fraser Valley/ Central Coast Area.

The strategy and the agreement's objective is to help Aboriginal people prepare for, obtain and keep jobs.  To that end, SNHRD administers the funds within the terms of the AHRD agreement, accepting and negotiating applications/proposals from local organizations who design projects to address the unique needs of the area within specific program guidelines, including the provision of employment programs and services, youth programs, funding for persons with disabilities, and child care services.