John Howard Society of Okanagan and Kootenay (JHSOK) has been supporting the vulnerable in the Okanagan community for more than 60 years with programs in community inclusion, restorative justice, shelter, and specialized housing. It is known for its innovative approach to addressing homelessness and other social issues and its dedication to building a safe, healthy, and inclusive community for all.  

The primary objective of the Justice Caseworker is to support the reintegration of incarcerated individuals into the community, facilitating the development of comprehensive reintegration plans, participating in case conferences, and working to reduce the stigma associated with incarceration, with a goal of reducing recidivism.

What you will do:

•        Actively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure that comprehensive, coordinated care and support plans are in place for each client.

•        Provide individualized inmate support services, including guidance on programming and training that contributes to personal growth and rehabilitation, as well as facilitation of meaningful connections with the outside world.

•        Act as a liaison between inmates and community agencies to coordinate ongoing support and services.

•        Provide reintegration assistance in obtaining IDs, securing housing, filing income tax, facilitating family connections, etc.

•        Provide emotional support with your compassionate and consistent presence.

•        Maintain client files and provide bi-weekly reports on client progress to the Deputy Warden.

•        Participate in contractor training held at OCC to stay informed on relevant policies and procedures.

•        Other duties within the scope of work as assigned by the Executive Director or Director of Justice, Skills, and Employment.

What you bring:

•        Education in social sciences, law, justice, or a related field of study.

•        Experience in case management within the justice, corrections, or court services sector.

•        Knowledge of risk assessment and risk management processes.

•        Training and Certifications in Restorative Justice (Community Justice Forum Facilitation, Victim-Offender Conferencing, and Peace Circle Facilitation) an asset but not required.

•        Proven ability to maintain a high degree of professionalism, boundaries, and confidentiality.

•        Ability to work independently while remaining an integral part of two distinct teams: the JHSOK Team and the Correctional Staff Team.

•        Excellent communication and organizational skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

•        A valid class 5 BC driver’s license with satisfactory driver’s abstract, a reliable vehicle with liability insurance.

Conditions of hire:

•        Must be able to successfully clear a Provincial Criminal Record Check (CRC), RCMP Criminal Record Check, including a Vulnerable Sector Check.

•        Valid first aid/CPR training.

•        Security clearance for work in a Secure Facility Environment: the role requires working within a secure correctional facility where strict security protocols, policies and procedures must be followed.

•        Preference is given to applicants residing in Oliver and surrounding area (daily travel to/from the OCC to be expected).

This is a permanent position with a 35-hr work week Monday-Friday.

Hourly wage ranges from $25.75-$29.87. Additionally, JHSOK offers extended health benefits, RRSP matching, Employee Assistance Program, generous paid time off, and continuous professional development.

If restorative justice and advocacy for inclusive society are your passion and purpose, we would like to hear from you! 

John Howard Society of Okanagan & Kootenay - where humanity works!