Indigenous Relations Children's Coordinator
The Indigenous Relations Children's Coordinator plays a critical role in delivering culturally grounded, trauma-informed programming for children and families residing at SOFIA House. This position integrates traditional Indigenous knowledge, wellness practices, and community connections into all aspects of child-focused support, ensuring programming aligns with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action and supports holistic healing for Indigenous families impacted by interpersonal and gender-based violence.
Working closely with the Program Manager and fellow coordinators, the role supports children from birth to age 18 through individual support, group programming, and cultural engagement. The coordinator also serves as a bridge to local Indigenous communities, Elders, and partners, ensuring the cultural safety of the children and families we serve.
Key Responsibilities
- Children’s Program Support
- Provide trauma-informed, play-based, and culturally grounded individual and group programming for children ages 0–18.
- Assess individual needs through observation, engagement, and collaboration with caregivers, and develop responsive support plans.
- Provide advocacy and referrals to ensure access to mental health services, school supports, and child-appropriate community programming.
- Communicate on behalf of families with external agencies such as Jordan’s Principle, the Ministry of Social Services, schools, and TRiP.
- Plan and carry out child-centered cultural and seasonal events (e.g., birthday celebrations, holidays).
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation, including case notes and program tracking.
- Indigenous Relations & Cultural Integration
- Implement relevant TRC Calls to Action, including but not limited to Calls 1, 5, 12, 19, 36, 55, and 66.
- Ensure cultural safety by integrating Indigenous teachings, language, and ceremony into children’s programming when desired by residents.
- Facilitate opportunities for children and families to engage with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and traditional healing practices.
- Build and sustain relationships with Indigenous organizations, service providers, and communities for collaborative programming and referrals.
- Assist with internal staff cultural capacity-building, as needed.
- Team & Shelter Support
- Participate in the shared on-call shelter support schedule.
- Provide transportation to residents as required under SOFIA House’s transportation policies, including the use of agency vehicles.
- Maintain a clean, welcoming, and safe environment in all child and family spaces.
- Collaborate with team members to ensure consistent, high-quality service delivery.
- Support monthly reporting related to children's engagement and TRC-aligned outcomes.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Indigenous Studies, Social Work, Child and Youth Care, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- Direct experience supporting Indigenous children and families impacted by trauma and violence.
- Strong understanding of Indigenous cultural protocols, historical impacts of colonization, and wellness practices.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed, harm reduction, and anti-oppressive practice.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in both structured and flexible environments.
- Valid driver’s license required.
- Preference will be given to Indigenous applicants.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $25.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site gym
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Vision care
Work Location: In person
