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.