Family Support Worker

The YMCA of Northern Alberta strives to integrate our values of diversity and social inclusion in all that we do. We believe that strong leadership is created through the sharing of diverse experiences and perspectives. We actively seek candidates who embody these principles and who reflect the many dimensions of the communities we serve.

Join us and support the work of the YMCA, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

As the Family Support Worker at the YMCA, you support parents and caregivers who have children ages 7-18. The position works with families within the Family Connect Family Supports program. You will work with participants in the homes, to provide support for child and youth development and their well-being, increase caregiver capacity, social connections, and support. This will be done through in person, virtual and community-based visits. You will provide in-home support to caregivers through supportive counselling, resources, referrals and increasing parent knowledge. This position requires regular use of a vehicle. You must be able to support a schedule that includes working a flexible schedule including days, evenings, and occasional weekends as we meet the families where they are at. This position also required networking and event planning within the team dynamics.

With support from your leaders, you will further develop your interpersonal and communications skills as we strive to approach our work with a high degree of professionalism. You will have the opportunity to work with diverse populations and work to understand and help them overcome their own unique set of challenges.

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture at the YMCA. We strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.

We are welcoming. We are open to all. We are a place where you can belong.

We are genuine. We value you and embrace your individuality.

We are hopeful. We believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world.

We are nurturing. We support you in your journey to develop your full potential.

We are determined. Above all else, we are on a constant quest to make our community stronger, if you want to join us- apply today!

Essential Functions

• Recruit, and screen families for participation in Family Supports program. Provide individual supportive counselling and advocacy, facilitate appropriate community placements, provide feedback to participants, and communicate progress of the participants within the team as appropriate.
• Work with families to provide information and support that helps them improve their parenting skills and provide a safe, nurturing environment for their children.
• Plan and implement programs within YMCA guidelines and contracted performance measures.
• Research, develop and/or acquire relevant program materials, manuals and tools to meet group and individual learning needs.
• Advocate for families in crisis, assist with problem solving and goal planning to increase their confidence in meeting the needs of their children and family.
• Maintain appropriate program administration systems in relation to programs.
• Establish effective community relations relevant to the program.
• Market and promote programs to achieve programmatic and financial targets.

What You'll Need

• University Degree in a Human Services field or equivalent
• 2 years of experience working directly with vulnerable families
• Previous experience working with cultural groups, high needs, and marginalized populations.
• Standard First Aid and CPR
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and Suicide Intervention Certification preferred.
• Valid driver’s license, clear driver’s abstract, and access to a vehicle
• Able to obtain a Police Information Check and Vulnerable sector and Child Intervention/Enhanced Security check.

What the Y Brings to You

• A meaningful career with opportunities to grow while building your community.
• A culture of honesty, respect, and pride in what we do.
• Colleagues who bring diverse perspectives and talents to the workplace.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Membership to our health, fitness & aquatics facilities for you and your family
• Reduced fees in YMCA programs such as childcare and day camps (depending on availability and employment status).

Disclaimer

We appreciate your interest in YMCA of Northern Alberta. However, only those applicants selected for interviews will be contacted. YMCA of Northern Alberta is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing employment opportunities to all individuals. Only those candidates permissible to work in Canada are applicable to this position.