Summary:
The Southern First Nations Network of Care (SFNNC) receives its mandate from the First Nations in southern Manitoba and through the Child and Family Services Authorities Act. The SFNNC, along with the other three CFS Authorities in Manitoba, are responsible for the establishment and management of a province-wide service delivery system. This includes ensuring that services are delivered to southern First Nations citizens throughout the province as well as families who choose the SFNNC though an ADP. Services and resources will align with community needs and activities will be focused on prevention rather than crisis management. The SFNNC’s vision is for First Nations children, families, and communities to be healthy, strong, and empowered by ensuring their protection through the provision of safe homes with responsible caregivers and the promotion of wellness in strengthened families and communities.
The Alternative Care Specialist acts as direct resource and liaison for the SFNNC. The position is ideal for experienced front-line workers who want to move into a knowledge expertise role that enhances and advises our CFS agency partners on best practices and standards. Working in collaboration with the Service Support team, under the direction of the Service Support Manager, the Alternative Care Specialist is to act as a direct resource and liaison for the Network with key collaterals and stakeholders. The Alternative Care Specialist provides consultation and help regarding kinship/customary and specialized foster homes which are provided by on and off reserve First Nations child welfare agencies, under the Network, and third-party resources.
Key Responsibilities:
· Assist Agencies with the development of kinship/customary and specialized foster homes
· Provide consultation on the foster home appeals process
· Assist in the emergency placement resource area
· Act as the direct liaison with the Child Protection Branch, Southern First Nation Agencies and other Authorities.
· Coordinate foster parent training with education and training department
· Addressing all complaints from and/or about foster parents
· Addressing all enquiries regarding foster care
· Assessing and resolving foster parent appeals regarding removal of children from a foster home
· Assessing and resolving foster parent appeals regarding refusal or revoking of foster home license
· Supporting agency compliance with licensing standards
· Request for variances to foster home licenses
· Assisting agencies with foster parent recruitment
Qualifications, Education & Experience:
· BSW or equivalent in social services field; minimum five years child welfare and foster care experience or a combination of experience and education.
· Knowledge of kinship, customary care, and specialized placements.
· Must have a knowledge of the process required to complete Home Studies and proposals for the development of Specialized Homes.
· An understanding of Child Welfare legislation, relevant Standards and
Regulations and AJI-CWI.
· Knowledge of the resources that are currently available in Manitoba that support a continuum
of services to families.
· Knowledgeable about what the current needs are for children and families involved in the
child and family services system in Manitoba.
· Knowledge about the need to develop culturally appropriate resources.
· Effective and professional communication skills, both oral and written.
· Experience and familiarity with Microsoft software (Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel, Access
and PowerPoint.
· Exceptional organizational skills to optimize client and collateral staff needs.
· Detail oriented
· Proven ability to work in a fast paced, multi-tasked environment and manage deadlines.
· Flexibility to adapt to changing work conditions.
· Ability to work independently and as a team.
· Must have demonstrated understanding of Aboriginal culture and traditions.
Other Requirements:
· Must provide a satisfactory Criminal Record Check with a vulnerable sector search and a clear Child Abuse Registry Check. A prior contact check (PCC) will also be performed in-house.
· Must have regular access to a reliable vehicle and a valid class 5 driver’s license for business travel
Benefits of Joining Our Team:
· Generous paid time off (vacation, personal leave, cultural leave, etc)
· Additional paid non-statutory holidays
· Staff events and activities
· Centrally located office with free parking
· Tax free environment for employees who hold Status
$60,000 – 84,000/annum. Salary range offered will be based on individuals’ experience/competencies.
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: Wednesday, November 26th, 2024 at 4:00 PM
Please submit your cover letter and resume to:
Human Resources
Southern First Nations Network of Care
202-600 Empress Street, Winnipeg, MB R3G 0L5
Fax: (204) 783-7996 or Email: [email protected]
Please indicate in the subject line of your application email which position you are applying for.
Preference will be given to qualified First Nation candidates - please self-identify in your cover letter.
All candidates must have a commitment to decolonization and a thorough understanding of the history and impacts of Residential Schools, Indian Day Schools, and the 60s Scoop.
We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected will be contacted for further consideration.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: $60,000.00-$84,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- RRSP match
- Vision care
Flexible language requirement:
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
Education:
- Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
Experience:
- CFS/foster care: 5 years (required)
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 2024-11-26
