Wellness Facilitator

Avenue.io Inc.; Edmonton; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

eStruxture is seeking a Wellness Facilitator to support Indigenous students on their journey toward holistic well-being—emotionally, spiritually, mentally, physically and academically. The role collaborates with school staff, families and community partners to implement wellness programs, address barriers to participation and promote positive engagement.

Responsibilities include mentoring, facilitating cultural activities based on Medicine Wheel teachings, building family relationships and

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in child and youth care, social services, or a related discipline.
• Lived experience of Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing.
• Four years of experience working with Indigenous communities.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care and harm reduction principles.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized and group wellness support based on Indigenous practices and Medicine Wheel.
• Monitor attendance and academic progress, supporting improvement.
• Develop and deliver wellness programs rooted in Medicine Wheel teachings.
• Foster family and community engagement with culturally relevant referrals.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to address barriers to participation.

Job description

Position Summary

The Wellness Facilitator supports and empowers Indigenous students on their journey toward personal, emotional, spiritual, mental, physical, and academic success. By fostering a strong sense of cultural identity and well-being, this role creates a supportive environment where students can thrive holistically. The Wellness Facilitator collaborates with school staff, families, and community partners to implement wellness programs, address barriers to school participation, and promote positive school engagement. This position is crucial in enhancing student resilience, social skills, and overall well-being, contributing to the organization’s goal of equitable and inclusive education.

Duties & Responsibilities:

1. Support Indigenous Student Wellness (40%)

• Provide individualized and group support to Indigenous students on wellness strategies based on the Medicine Wheel.
• Monitor student attendance and academic progress, implementing strategies for improvement.
• Identify barriers to school participation and develop constructive solutions.
• Facilitate activities that support successful transitions between grades and schools.
• Create opportunities for students to learn from Knowledge Keepers and Elders.

2. Develop and Implement Wellness Programs (25%)

• Facilitate social and cultural programs focused on wellness and leadership development.
• Coordinate and lead transition programs, social justice initiatives, leadership clubs, cultural activities, career exploration opportunities, tutoring services, and parent engagement efforts.
• Collaborate with teachers, counsellors, and advisors to ensure the ongoing implementation of transition processes.
• Develop and deliver wellness strategies rooted in the teachings of the Medicine Wheel.

3. Engage and Support Families (15%)

• Build relationships with families, community organizations, and resources.
• Facilitate family engagement activities.
• Act as a resource for families, providing culturally relevant referrals and support.
• Collaborate with the student services team and learning designate to address barriers to school engagement and resolve challenges.

4. Foster Community Connections (10%)

• Engage in community development efforts to establish partnerships with service providers.
• Assist schools in coordinating Indigenous Education opportunities for students.
• Help students connect with community resources and establish experiential opportunities that promote wellness.

5. Collaborate with Multi-Disciplinary Teams (10%)

• Work with the student services team and families to address student challenges.
• Participate in staff and team meetings, providing input into strategic planning, goals, and objectives.
• Model and discuss strategies with classroom teams to enhance student learning.
• Assist in or facilitate the delivery of professional development to school staff

Knowledge, Skills & Competencies:

Knowledge

Degree or diploma in child and youth care, social services, or a related discipline.

• Lived experience of Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing.
• Four years of experience working with the Indigenous community.
• Considerable knowledge of wellness modalities and cultural programs, including Medicine Wheel teachings.
• Understanding of the history and experiences of Indigenous students, including barriers to participation in education, recreation, and social settings.
• Working knowledge of Indigenous values and principles in culture, program leadership, and recreational instruction.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care and harm reduction principles.

Skills

• Ability to facilitate wellness and cultural teachings to student groups and families.
• Proficiency in collaborating effectively with school personnel.
• Strong ability to establish rapport with Indigenous students, families, communities, and service agencies.
• Competence in maintaining caseload records and writing reports.
• Effective advocacy skills for youth in various situations and facilitating access to services and supports.
• Knowledge of standard casework techniques and their application to behavioral, social, and family issues related to Indigenous children
• Familiarity with youth service agencies, Indigenous organizations, and related community resources.

Competencies

• Adaptability: Ability to adjust to changing circumstances and environments.
• Leadership: Capability to guide and mentor students, fostering their development.
• Problem-Solving: Skill in identifying issues and developing effective solutions.
• Collaboration: Proficiency in working with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to convey information clearly and effectively.