The Program
Spirit of Our Youth homes provide culturally-based programming, support and safe, home-based accommodations to First Nations, Metis or Inuit children and youth age 3 to 24. Our trauma-informed services empower those we serve and help foster community connections with honesty, compassion and respect.
Our well-maintained homes are located in safe, established neighborhoods. Close to schools, playgrounds and easy access to transportation, our homes are part of the community and create a welcoming environment. We provide meals and snacks, a monthly clothing allowance, recreational opportunities and transportation.
Traditional teachings can empower youth to make strong connections with family and community. Each youth has access to a cultural coordinator who provides individual support and cultural opportunities including monthly sweats, weekly sharing circles, smudging, pipe ceremonies, feasts, dances, traditional healing, languages and access to community Elders and cultural helpers.
In Your Role You Will
- Assist and support youth with developing and achieving personal goals.
- Teach and encourage age-appropriate life skills such as; communication, emotional well being, problem solving, cooking, cleaning, budgeting, being a positive role model, etc.
- Supervise and participate in programming and activities that promote social/emotional /physical development to build competence and self-worth and achieve personal goals.
- Ensure individuals basic needs are met (personal care, life skills and social/occupational skills)
- Daily household tasks at the residence/program facility (May include cleaning, laundry or assisting the youth in care with the completion of these tasks, etc.)
- Drive children/youth to and from school, medical appointments, recreational activities, community resources and support networks.
- Plan, support and/or deliver culturally appropriate programs, services, workshops, and outings; encouraging youth to learn and participate in their culture.
- Contribute toward design, implementation and evaluation of individual service plans, program specific policies & procedures.
The Position
Shifts are on rotation and include weekends:
Overnight Awake ~ 11pm to 8am
Days ~ 8am to 4pm
Afternoon/Evening ~3pm to 11pm
For youth, reconnecting to their indigenous culture can be a powerful way to heal from past traumas and to envision a stronger, healthier future. In safe, nurturing environment, our trained youth workers build individualized programs that teach basic skills and help youth set and achieve personal goals. With positive role-modeling and a trauma-informed approach to care, we help them plan for their future, create healthy relationships with their families & communities and focus on the personal empowerment found through a connection with indigenous culture
Mandatory Pre-Employment Screenings and Checks
***Prior to confirmation of employment, all applicants must provide a copy of a current Criminal Record Check and/or Government Screening Letter. These checks vary depending on province and sector and will be communicated by the Program Hiring Team.
As An Ideal Candidate You Possess
- Certificate, Diploma or Degree in Child and Youth Work, Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, etc.
- 2 years related experience (youth programming, group homes, supported independent living, daycare, out of school care, etc.)
- Preference for First Nations, Metis, Indigenous applicants as per the CHRC Aboriginal Employment Policy
- Valid Class 5 Driver’s License and clean driver’s abstract with personal car insurance (2 million in third party liability)
- Must be able to deal with any crisis situations, to ensure safety for youth in the program.
- First Aid/CPR Certificate
- Suicide Intervention, Self Harm, Crisis Intervention and Medication Administration training
- Aboriginal awareness and cultural diversity training
- Able to work and follow Spirit of Our Youth Homes Inc. policies and procedures and adhere to Alberta Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act.
- Knowledge of the Canadian Accreditation Council of Human Services
- Able to lift 50 lbs.
What Taproot Community Support Services Does
Spirit of Our Youth was started in 2000 out of a passion for helping indigenous youth. From one home in Central Edmonton we have grown to operate 5 Group Care Homes, a Supported Independent Living program, as well as a Drive and Supervised Visits program.
In 2013, Spirit of our Youth became part of Taproot Community Support Services, the largest privately-owned national social services company in Canada. While operating autonomously, Spirit has full access to the extensive Taproot Community Support Services resources.
Our Employees Enjoy
- Safe, respectful and caring team environment
- Training programs to ensure professional development and career development
- Flexible hours
- Generous benefit packages for full time employees
Website reference
For more information on Spirit of Our Youth and Taproot Community Support Services or to apply for this position, visit our website at www.spirityouth.ca.
Closing Statement
No candidate will meet every single desired qualification. If your experience looks a little different from what we've identified and you think you can bring value to the role, we'd love to learn more about you! Please apply.
Equal-Opportunity Employer
Our commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment is unwavering. We believe that varied backgrounds and experiences fuel innovation and success. As an equal-opportunity employer, we prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion across all operations. We're seeking candidates passionate about contributing to our multicultural teams and enriching our workplace with their unique insights and cultural sensitivity.
We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply and join us in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.
No telephone calls please. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be notified.
