POSITION: Family Advocate
CLOSING DATE: Open Until Filled
Under the direction of the Director of Child Welfare Reform, the Family Advocate provides support and advocacy to First Nations families that are involved with and navigating the Child and Family Services system. The Family Advocate will work with families to empower parents/caregivers to identify next steps and goals to work towards bringing their children home.
Key Responsibilities
- Support, build and maintain cultural, family and community connections for First Nation children, youth and families involved with the child and family services system.
- Create, provide, and coordinate services with families.
- Establish effective working relationships with child and families service providers and families to support the reunification process.
- Advocate for meaningful contact between families and children/youth to improve their relationship and strengthen family unity.
- Connect families to internal and external resources to build on parenting skills and to assist families to overcome issues that may be preventing reunification.
- Maintain up to date records of client files.
- Work with families to evaluate case plans and determine priorities.
- Maintain knowledge in all community programs, make referrals and deliver services to families.
- Conduct home visits.
- Other duties as assigned and/or outlined in the job description.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Arts or Social Work.
- Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
- Minimum two (2) to five (5) years’ experience working in the Manitoba Child and Family Services system.
- Knowledge of First Nation issues related to the child welfare system and health services.
- Experience working with and in First Nations.
- Strong Knowledge of the Child and Family Services system, policies, laws, regulations, and standards.
- Excellent communication skills; written, verbal and interpersonal.
- Strong problem solving and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and build effective relationships.
- Ability to work under pressure and adhere to deadlines and commitments.
- Sounds judgement, analytical and decision-making skills.
- Proficient in a variety of computer applications (MS Word, Excel, Outlook).
- Knowledge of Indigenous culture, traditions and fluent in a First Nations language would be an asset.
- Ability to function effectively as a team member.
- Work flexible hours.
Conditions of Employment
- Valid Manitoba Class 5 Driver’s License and access to a reliable vehicle.
We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Interested applicants are invited to forward a cover letter, resume with two references to:
Human Resources – Email: [email protected]
