Located within the traditional unceded territory of the syilx people, Westbank First Nation is a progressive and prosperous self-governing First Nation. The Okanagan Valley truly has it all, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

Westbank First Nation values diversity and we are committed to creating a healthy, strong and vibrant community through programs and services that promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being and healing. Come join our team and become part of an innovative and rewarding place to work.

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Clinical Care Supervisor, the Wellness Advocate will work collaboratively as part of the Wellness team in delivering services tailored to meet the client needs. The Wellness Advocate will be familiar with other services and resources in the community and work closely to provide information and support when required. The Wellness Advocate provides individual and family-centered, strength-based interventions directed at developing and maintaining holistic wellness. Working as a part of a team, the Advocate will organize and co-facilitate psychoeducational groups, as well as provide individual support tailored to meet the needs of community members through trusting relationships.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• 2-3 years working directly with individuals and families, including facilitation of group services
• Program development and implementation experience
• Experience in a First Nation community setting
• Experience presenting and/or facilitating groups
• Degree or diploma in Psychology/Social Work/Mental Health/Human Services
• Mental Health/Wellness Certificate or equivalent experience

REQUIREMENTS

• Acceptable Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and uses discretion on all matters relating to the affairs of the Westbank First Nation.

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILTIES

• Facilitates culturally appropriate support programs
• Provides outreach, education, prevention and intervention services within the community
• Co-develops and facilitates support services with individuals and families, according to client-led goals
• Maintains client caseloads, designs, develops, and facilitates wellness programs and services
• Provides education and promotes strategies that improve mental health and wellbeing in the community
• Provides relevant and meaningful information and resources to individuals and families connected to the program
• Participates in Wrap Around System of Care Model and facilitates the development of network of care
• Member of the West Kelowna HUB and ability to complete VAT assessment
• Provides advocacy and navigational supports to individuals and families
• Provides additional supports to individuals and families and/or facilitates referral to identified support services
•  Establishes trusting relationships with clients through regular, scheduled visits
• Networks with internal departments and external agencies to assist with resources and referrals for clients
• Works as a member of an integrated team
• Ensure that service statistics are recorded, develops monthly program reports and maintains all administrative duties as directed by the Clinical Care Supervisor
• Participates in the development and delivery of community-based events geared towards health promotion such as Wellness Fair and National Addictions Awareness Week
• Client treatment referrals, in consultation with the Addictions Counsellor
• Works one-on-one with clients to identify individual needs i.e. budget, basic needs, housing, goal setting, etc.
• Provides appropriate client/family referral to other agencies when unable to meet client needs
• Maintains, reconciles and reports on budgets related to event planning
• Develops policies and procedures in collaboration with supervisor
• Performs other duties as required and directed by the Clinical Care Supervisor
• Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Westbank First Nation policies, standards and procedures, and as directed by the Clinical Care Supervisor
• Maintains confidentiality on all matters relating to the affairs of the Westbank First Nation and its clients

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Demonstrates a high degree of confidentiality in interpersonal interaction
• Working knowledge of the history of colonization in Canada and its ongoing impact on modern issues affecting Indigenous Peoples
• Working knowledge in communicating with Indigenous Peoples, demonstrating sensitivity and empathy, and awareness of how language choices can influence and impact conversations.
• Demonstrated understanding of the impacts of marginalization
• Demonstrated understanding of integrated system of care and/or Wrap Around models
• Knowledge and understanding of Grief/Loss and Generational Trauma
• Demonstrated understanding of holistic Mental Wellness
• Demonstrated compassion, nurturing, acceptance, patience, and respect for others
• Demonstrated experience in individual and family capacity development and advocacy
• Awareness and experience of the fundamental principles of First Nations culture & traditions
• An understanding of and sensitivity to local history, culture, and issues, and an appreciation of the role that culture plays in the treatment of psychological concerns
• Working knowledge of assessment tools
• Strong communication skills (oral and written)
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft software applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, Publisher, PowerPoint and ability to operate office equipment
• Experience creating and maintaining client files
• Organized and reliable
• Able to work independently and a part of a team
• Have a flexible schedule with availability to work evenings and weekends
• Clean Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search
• Acceptable Driver’s Abstract and Current Driver’s License with reliable transportation

The minimum hourly wage for this position is: $20.00

Located within the traditional unceded territory of the syilx people, Westbank First Nation is a progressive and prosperous self-governing First Nation. The Okanagan Valley truly has it all, including a great climate, stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, golf courses, wineries and beaches.

Westbank First Nation values diversity and we are committed to creating a healthy, strong and vibrant community through programs and services that promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being and healing. Come join our team and become part of an innovative and rewarding place to work.