Full-Time Employment Opportunity

Indigenous Support Worker, Independence Apartments

Job ID 24-045EJHS

For over 75 years EJHS has provided holistic services and wraparound supports that address the root causes of crime and social disorder. By focusing on reintegration, acceptance and successful outcomes, we are building a safer, more harmonious community. We do this through release planning, housing support, employment transition, education, substance recovery, cultural supports and more.

The Edmonton John Howard Society provides the following: 

• Strong focus  on  employee  wellness  and  work-life  balance 
• Service recognition  and  employee  awards 
• Professional Development  opportunities 
• Staff teambuilding and appreciation  days 
• Competitive health, dental and RRSP benefits

We are a values-driven organization that supports clients from a strength-based approach. If  your  values  are  aligned  with  our  core  values  listed  at: https://johnhoward.org/about-us/core-values, please  consider  joining  our  team.

Position Summary:

Independence Apartments is a Community Based Residential Facility (CBRF) and a program of Edmonton John Howard Society. Its primary focus is to assist adult males in making a successful transition from federal institutions to living a responsible community life. Independence Apartments provides community supervision of clients while at the same time, providing one-to-one support for their transition into the community. 

The Indigenous Support Worker provides support and advocacy for Indigenous residents of Independence Apartments. Clients expressing interest in obtaining Indigenous support(s) will be referred to the Indigenous Support Worker by their Caseworker. The Indigenous Support Worker will establish working relationships with clients that allow for identification of healing, spiritual, cultural and other appropriate Indigenous resources of their preference. Our goal is to assist Indigenous clients throughout the reintegration process to ensure they’ve received the information, skills, knowledge and ability to familiarize themselves with available resources and supports that they can continue to access once released. The Indigenous Support Worker will work evenings and weekends to ensure clients have access to the Indigenous Support Worker throughout their residency.

Responsibilities:

• Regularly meet with, observe, and document resident behaviour, progress or deterioration, both within the CBRF and in the community.

• Delivery of services in a client-centred, strength-based approach.
• Assist clients in obtaining identification, status cards, medical/dental band funding, education and vocational training opportunities, housing and cultural events
• Referrals to Elders and/or culturally appropriate supports
• Maintain unit supply of culturally significant medicines and supplies
• Arrange, coordinate, and oversee client participation in cultural events and activities such as sweats, round dances, beading classes, drumming, etc. including transportation
• Work with Team Lead and Coordinator to create and develop unit policy that complements cultural practices vs Community Correctional facility standards
• Establish and maintain contact with Indigenous agencies and individuals such as the CSC Indigenous Community Liaison Officer to ensure access to Elders, ceremonies, and community gatherings.
• Participate in monthly Case Conferences with Case Management Team members to provide updates on client progress and share resources and services that clients may benefit from.
• Liaise with Caseworkers, CSC staff, Indigenous Liaison Officers, EPS, RCMP, program providers, and agency funders.
• Active participation in the agency’s Truth and Reconciliation Committee
• Educate/develop staff training/discussions surrounding Indigenous culture and traditional Indigenous practices (i.e. ceremonies, sacred medicines)
• Contribute to a positive culture by assisting and supporting coworkers as required
• Transportation of clients, as required.

Qualifications / Skills:

• Related Diploma or Degree in Human Services. Equivalent education and experience may be considered.
• Grounded in Indigenous culture, traditions, and history
• Previous front, line experience working with urban Indigenous peoples
• Understanding of oppressive structures, and experience working with disadvantaged populations dealing with life challenges including poverty, unemployment, lack of education, addictions, family violence, mental health, and racism
• Knowledge of the Federal justice system

Conditions of Employment:

• This is a 40 hour per week position, including evenings from Wednesday to Friday, and flexible hours on Saturday and Sunday to maximize client interaction.
• Immediate start date.
• The position requires frequent standing, walking up and down stairs, and occasional lifting.
• Valid Standard First Aid/CPR
• Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and client-supportive insurance
• Criminal Record Check, Enhanced Reliability Screening; A criminal record will not disqualify you from employment with us; we evaluate each application individually.

Salary:

The salary range for this position is from $51,000 - $60,180 per year.

To apply, submit a résumé and cover letter in one PDF document by October 11, 2024

to

Please include “24-045EJHS Indigenous Support Worker – IA” in the Subject Line of the email.  Please include how you heard about the position in the cover letter.

Resumes without a cover letter will not be considered.

Only those selected for interviews will be contacted

Safety and harmony in our community

Edmonton John Howard Society is committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourages applications from people of Indigenous heritage, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds