FAMILY SUPPORT WORKER POSITION 

35 HOURS PER WEEK - PERMANENT

The Family Support Worker provides a range of services to Indigenous families in the North Okanagan. The Family Support Worker be a liaison between clients and other agencies such as M.C.F.D., courts and schools. Through family advocacy, the worker will share information on services available, referrals and support for the family. The Family Support Worker will provide services in a culturally appropriate and sensitive manner by encouraging healthy, and well-balanced families. Empowering families with knowledge, skills, and abilities to manage their lives by providing caring, compassionate support services. Reports to the Early Childhood Development Program Manager.

DUTIES:

Provides prevention programs in the broadest possible way, in such areas as life skills, parenting, education, job skills, home management, budgeting and nutrition.

Helps families to make healthy lifestyle choices.

Works collaboratively with NOFCS programs such as Mental Health and Addictions, Prenatal Outreach and Early Childhood Development.

Provides family counselling and referrals.

Provides immediate family support in crisis situations.

Provides specialized services to children and teens as needed.

Participates in multi-disciplinary team approach within the NOFCS by providing a holistic approach to family support.

Actively works to empower families by helping develop coping skills and the ability to reach out for help.

Works with individual clients, family units, groups, and community education.

Reduces the necessity of ongoing intervention by MCFD Child Protection Services and the justice system by offering family support services, liaising, and advocating for families in need of assistance.

ACCOUNTABILITY:

• Submit monthly progression reports to Early Childhood Development Program Manager.
• Maintain accurate program statistics in accordance with the requirements of the funding body and the North Okanagan Friendship Centre.
• Accountable for your professional conduct to your clients, supervisor, and colleagues.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor of Social Work is preferred with current registration in the BC College of Social Workers.
• Indigenous person preferred.
• Experience working with Indigenous People
• Ability to work cooperatively as a team member.
• Absolute maintenance of confidentiality and 100% no-risk to Clients
• Experience in facilitating training programs and workshops.
• Clear Vulnerable Criminal Record check.
• Must have a valid Drivers Licence, a clear driver’s abstract, and reliable transportation.

REQUIRED SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE:

• Knowledge of Indigenous history, colonization, and anti-oppressive practices.
• Knowledge of Indigenous protocols and Indigenous world view.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practice.
• Knowledge of Wellbriety Group at NOFCS.
• Empathy, compassion, and empowering practice.
• Strong positive communication skills both verbal, non-verbal and written.
• Mediation and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to effectively plan and organize.
• Works well independently, can take initiative and be self directed.
• Good understanding and knowledge of Family Systems.
• Familiarity with North Okanagan community services and agencies, roles, and responsibilities. and services to Indigenous peoples – First Nations, Metis, and Inuit.
• Strong ethical standards and principles.
• Ability to facilitate “Mothers for Recovery”, established group of NOFCS.

Hourly wage $28.00 per hour; 35 hours per week, benefits available following a 3-month probationary period.

Apply by submitting a cover letter and resume with three letters of reference by mail or email to:

Annette Madsen              email address:

Office Manager

2904 29^th Avenue

Vernon, BC    V1T 1Y7

Posted May 13, 2024

Closing Date: Until filled.