PLEA Community Services is currently seeking a Regular Part-Time Group Facilitator for Trans & Gender Exploring support groups located in Burnaby, Port Coquitlam, and Ridge Meadows. The position is attached to the Ridge Meadows Youth Services team located in Maple Ridge, B.C., but facilitation of the groups will take place in all three of the previously mentioned communities. The proposed start date for this position is November 6, 2024. This position requires BCGEU membership.

Hours of Work: The usual hours of work in this position are from 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM on assigned group nights based on six 5-hour evening shifts per month (i.e. two Tuesdays and four Wednesdays).

Education/Experience Requirements:

• Certificate in a related human/social services field.
• One (1) year of recent related experience.

Closing date for Internal Applications: Friday, October 4, 2024, at 4:30PM. If the position is not filled internally, it will remain open until filled.

Who We Are:

PLEA is an accredited, charitable community services organization that has operated throughout BC for more than 40 years. We deliver community-based services and specialized supported homes to children, youth, adults and families facing significant challenges in their lives. We continually adapt our programs to suit each individual’s diverse strengths, needs and circumstances. As a result, we have a strong reputation for helping those we serve to overcome the challenges they face and lead fulfilling lives.

What You Will Do: 

• Conduct group sessions to support skill acquisition and build on current skills in the areas of ‘trans’, ‘transgender’ or ‘gender exploring’ and other related topics.
• Plan group sessions in accordance with the program manual or guidelines and the participants’ skills and needs. Prepare for group sessions by reviewing program manuals and other related materials.
• Promote the program by performing duties such as distributing brochures and posters to the community and making presentations to community organizations.
• Ensure that the necessary facilities, equipment and materials are available for the sessions.
• Conduct evaluations and obtain participation feedback on group effectiveness, material presented and facilitation style. Report any difficulties to the supervisor.
• Maintain contact with participants between sessions to provide follow up support if necessary, such as reviewing program materials and participants’ needs.
• Maintain related records in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of community resources to provide program-related information to clients.
• Protect and uphold confidentiality.
• Perform other related duties as required.

What You Will Bring:

• Strong interpersonal communication, facilitation, and conflict management skills.
• Demonstrated proficiency in teaching others, including presenting sensitive topics to youth, parents/caregivers.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with others, including the ability to connect with youth and work collaboratively with parents, partners and stakeholders who provide support to youth.
• Demonstrated ability to support youth and parents/caregivers who may be reluctant to engage.
• Ability to facilitate and work through difficult group dynamics effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, make sound decisions and be held accountable for results.
• Effective organization, time, and general management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to be sensitive and understanding of individuals’ social realities including issues of race, culture, religion, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, poverty and lifestyle.
• Demonstrated knowledge of issues and trends related to the program.
• Knowledge of local clinical access and options for transgender and/or gender diverse communities.
• Knowledge of theory, principles, and best practices with respect to providing services to the transgender community.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite and database systems.
• Lived experience is an asset.

PLEA Benefits and Perks:

• Access to an Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP): confidential and voluntary counselling support services and wellness resources.
• Discounted Membership Fees for Club 16 Trevor Linden and She's Fit.
• Agency-Sponsored Social Events (i.e., summer barbecue, annual holiday party, and team days).
• Perkopolis Membership - exclusive managed discount, reward, and benefits programs.

Minimum Requirements:

• Satisfactory Criminal Record Clearance.
• Must possess a valid Basic First Aid certificate (formerly OFA Level 1) or be willing to obtain one prior to hire.
• Documentation that the applicant is legally approved to work in Canada.

Note: PLEA conducts primary source verification of applicant's credentials including education, training, work history, and licensure.