Reports To: Family Support Team Lead
Job Purpose:
The Family Services Worker is a key member of the Integrated Services team, responsible for providing prevention-focused support to children, youth, and families who are identified as at-risk. This role involves participating in case planning and delivering wrap-around services in a culturally relevant and empowering way. The goal is to support the enhancement and development of a positive cultural identity for the families and communities served.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide direct prevention services and programming to children, youth, and families.
- Create and maintain a respectful, safe, and culturally relevant environment.
- Collaborate with Integrated Services staff and other service providers through peer consultations and case conferencing to ensure coordinated service delivery.
- Advocate for the needs of individuals, connecting them with First Nation services, off-reserve resources, and other local providers.
- Foster and maintain positive relationships with families and extended family members during service delivery.
- Create and evaluate family safety plans and conduct family group meetings.
- Maintain accurate, concise, and up-to-date case notes and working files in the agency's case management system.
- Prepare regular program reports and collect statistical data for funders and the CLFN Chief and Council.
- Develop and implement a prevention program, including policies and procedures.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
- Degree in Human Services and relevant experience in a related field.
- Strong knowledge of the Cold Lake First Nations community and its members.
- Familiarity with the Child, Youth, and Family Enhancement Act (CYFEA), the Family Law Act (FLA), and Bill C-92.
- Understanding of Alberta Child Welfare policies and procedures.
- Knowledge of private guardianship applications and Children's Services-driven applications.
- Proven ability to advocate for the rights of Indigenous children, parents, and guardians.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills to engage with families and external service providers.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Proficiency with standard computer programs, including Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and communication tools like Zoom and Teams.
- Strong organizational skills for maintaining case files and reporting.
Working Conditions and/or Physical Requirements:
- Monday to Thursday 8:30am – 4:30pm, Friday 8:30am – 2:00pm. Working hours can vary and/or flexible depending on type of assignment or work plan task.
- Requires prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and using a computer.
- The role involves a high degree of community interaction and may require managing emotionally charged situations with sensitivity and professionalism.