Family Preservation Worker

Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society (KAFS) was established in 1972 and is a charitable organization with a status free open-door policy. KAFS is dedicated to empowering the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities of Kamloops and surrounding areas. KAFS provides culturally appropriate programs and inclusive services that meet the needs of urban Indigenous people to become healthier, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

The Opportunity:

Reporting to the Family Preservation Supervisor, the Family Preservation Worker plays a pivotal role in ensuring the well-being and safety of Aboriginal children in need of protection. This multifaceted position involves working closely with the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD), and Secwepemc Child and Family Services Agency (SCFSA) social workers to provide support, facilitate access to essential services, and represent the best interests of children in care. The role also includes acting as a liaison between children, their families, and the community while preserving their cultural heritage and identity.

Role and responsibilities:

• Assist with referrals from self, IIFS Programs, school district, and MCFD/SCFSA social workers.

• Work jointly with external social workers regarding Aboriginal children who may be in need of protection.

• Attend meetings as they pertain to children in care.

• Participate to the fullest extent in child abuse investigations.

• Share information and make recommendations with MCFD, and SCFSA social workers regarding child protection concerns. This will include information from the child, their family, and the community.

• Identify and help children and families access community services.

• Identify and facilitate arrangements for children to stay in “safe places” during a childcare emergency.

• Facilitate family and community support for children during child protection proceedings.

• Contact all non-local First Nations children in MCFD/SCFSA care.

• Provide comprehensive and complete information to children’s families and community about court proceedings and care plans.

• Provide referrals to mental health services.

• Partner with appropriate community resources to develop ways to meet identified needs.

• Facilitate workshops, meetings, and groups as required.

• Provides life skills support to individuals and families.

• Submit monthly reports to the Family Service Manager.

• Complete documentation and write reports.

• Maintain accurate records and data for reporting requirements.

• Works in conjunction with other departments of KAFS in the delivery of services.

• Performs other related duties as assigned or required.

Requirements – what you bring to KAFS:

• Bachelor of Social Work*

• Minimum of 1 year of experience in working with children and families at risk, preference will be given to individuals who have experience with Indigenous families.

• Knowledge in:

o Aboriginal Operational Standards and Policies.

o Child, Family and Community Service Act.

o Methods of intake assessment, treatment, and prevention.

o Crisis intervention.

o The current Court system, advocating on behalf of clients and making necessary recommendations to Judges, Lawyers, and Social Workers.

*A combination of education and significant experience will be considered.

Our “must haves” that make you great:

• Possess strong computer skills using MS Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook) software.

• Must have well developed verbal, and written communication skills.

• Strong organization and record keeping skills.

• Proficient in diplomatic and efficient conflict mediation and resolution.

• Ability to use advocacy and rapport skills to foster strong connections with diverse stakeholders.

• Excellent analytical and interviewing skills to achieve desired results.

• Diplomacy, tact, and confidentiality in dealing with a variety of people and information.

• Must be flexible, adaptable, and able to work effectively in a variety of settings.

• Ability to work within a team and a network to support children and families effectively.

• Good judgement and problem-solving skills must be exercised at all times.

Preference will be given to applicants of Aboriginal ancestry as per section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code.

(Please self-identity in your cover letter).

Salary: $27.00 per hour