ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation is seeking a dedicated individual to join our team as a Social Development Coordinator. Reporting to the Director of Member Services, the Social Development Coordinator is responsible for the administration of the Social Development program associated with the Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) programs, the broad objectives of:
- To assist persons living on reserves in maintaining a basic standard of living.
- To prevent dependency by developing individual and family strengths
- To assist recipients to access services that will enhance their ability to assume primary responsibility for their own affairs.
Current Programs:
- Income Assistance
- Funeral Assistance
- Urgent Crisis Support (Compassionate travel)
- PWD / Disability Income
- Assisted Living
- Hardship Grant
This position will be responsible for determining eligibility, meeting deadlines, assisting members with applications and provisions that exist to reflect the differing circumstances of a person’s residence on reserve land and funding criteria.
Additionally, this position will collaborate with Member Services, Health and Wellness, and Lands and Resources departments to coordinate and integrate initiatives that align with Social Development programs, fostering a holistic approach to enhancing the well-being of Community members.
ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation (ʔAFN) is a member community of the Ktunaxa Nation dedicated to serving and uplifting our community through culturally meaningful programs and initiatives. At ʔAFN, our departments collaboratively uphold our strategic vision, mission, and core values outlined in our strategic plan, “Our Thinking.”
Note: This position is full-time with a set weekly schedule, working 35 hours each week, onsite.
Primary Responsibilities:
Case Management:
- Conduct comprehensive assessments of community members' social and personal needs, including but not limited to housing, financial assistance, mental health, and addiction issues.
- Assist persons living on reserves in maintaining a basic standard of living via Income Assistance. Helps clients obtain income assistance.
- Prevent dependency by developing individual and family strengths
- Assist recipients to access services that will enhance their ability to assume primary responsibility for their own affairs
- Develop and implement individualized service plans for members, setting clear goals and objectives for their well-being and self-sufficiency.
- Coordinate resources and collaborate with various community organizations, government agencies, and service providers to ensure that clients have access to the necessary resources and support systems, such as working with Health if member needs Home Support, or connect with Housing if member is having issues with housing etc.
- Process all applications and requests for social assistance.
- Connect and assist members with navigating assistance from Ktunaxa Family and Children Services, Family Support Worker etc.
- Work closely with all department with the various ISC forms to coordinate and verify data, dates
Income Assistance:
- Administrates the Income Assistance program as prescribed by INAC
- Takes applications and completes assessments
- Completes Budget and Decision Sheets to determine eligibility
- Issues assistance as prescribed by the program
- Keep clients informed of all requirements and obligations and of all useful resources
- Facilitate the education on budgeting
- Facilitates the enrollment of recipients in training or educational programs that will enhance employability
- Assists and/or refer employable recipients to employment coaches to update or create resume, cover letter, practice interview questions, job search tips and resources
- Ensures recipients maintain a progression training/employment plan to facilitate the return to work, work in collaboration with the Ktunaxa Social Worker, the Education Coordinator and other employment coaches, and also facilitates access to job fairs
- Maintains secure and organized filing systems
- Ensures all Policies and Procedures set out by INAC, the Band and other relevant Ministries are being followed
- Maintains close relationship with INAC’s BSDW Support agent
- Completes quarterly income assistance reports, annual statistical reports and provide reports as requested by Council.
Social Development Programs Integration:
- Assists in the development of community resources, capacities, and services designed to enhance the social functioning of individuals and the AFN community as a whole by:
- Participating in committees, teams and task groups working towards the alleviation or resolution of social problems
- Assisting with preparation of documentation for the work opportunity programs and employment training initiatives, and assisting in the administration of approved projects as requested
- Participating in seminars, workshops, and training programs to upgrade skills and knowledge relevant to the position and stay knowledgeable and current regarding all income assistance policy and procedures
- Participating and assisting during community events and activities as requested.
Administration:
- Prepare all reports as mandated by the funding agency.
- Maintain, plan and adhere to scheduled activities and reports.
- Prepare updates and reports for Director.
- Ensure the Director is up to date on all aspects of all issues and member needs.
- Support the Director in budget preparation, analysis and documentation
- Maintain accurate and confidential records of member interactions, assessments, and progress towards goals.
- Ensure files are compliant with all regulatory requirements.
Advocacy:
- Act as an advocate for members by representing their interests and needs within the community and when dealing with external agencies and organizations.
- Provide immediate support to individuals and families facing crisis situations, including referrals to appropriate services and agencies.
- Acts as a liaison for members in navigating social assistance programing such as Persons with Disabilities (“PWD”), career cruising, and identifying gaps in support needs.
Community Outreach and Education:
- Organize and participate in community events, workshops, and programs designed to promote social and cultural development, education, and awareness.
- Develop and deliver educational programs and workshops that address social issues, promoting prevention and early intervention strategies.
- Develop, implement and assess programs for assisting members with basic needs.
- Collaborate with other departments to jointly provide education, resources etc.
Continuous Learning:
- Stay updated on relevant social policies, regulations, and best practices through ongoing professional development and training.
Other duties as required.
Qualifications:
- Post-secondary education in Community Support, Child and Youth Care, Social Work, Education, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- 2 years experience working in educational, social, or youth-focused environments.
Demonstrated experience or knowledge working with First Nations, Aboriginal, or Indigenous communities.
- Experience working with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC).
- Familiarity with trauma-informed practices, inclusive education, and universal design principles.
- Valid Class 5 driver's license, a clean driving abstract, and ability to safely operate community vehicles.
- Strong organizational, communication (written and verbal), and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of Ktunaxa language, history, and ʔakisq̓nuk culture is a significant asset.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary ($60,000 to $65,000 per year depending on education and experience)
- Group benefits including Health, Dental, Life Insurance, Health/Personal Spending Account, Employee and Family Assistance Program, Critical Illness, Long-Term Disability available after 3 months of employment
- Matched registered pension plan after 4 months of employment
- Discretionary office closure between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day as determined annually by Council
- Live and work in the stunning natural environment of British Columbia's East Kootenay region
Akisqnuk First Nation is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals. In accordance with our commitment to reconciliation and employment equity, preference may be given to qualified candidates who self-identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit. We encourage Indigenous applicants to self-identify in their application.
