Sqwá First Nation - Wellness Worker (Full-Time, Permanent)
Sqwá First Nation is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Wellness Worker to provide culturally sensitive and practical support to community members, including vulnerable and unhoused individuals, Elders, and others in need of assistance. Under the direction of the Social Services Manager, the Wellness Worker will work alongside Sqwá members to promote dignity, comfort, respect, well-being, and connection to culture. This role supports members in accessing community services and resources, overcoming barriers to care, participating in cultural and wellness activities, and maintaining meaningful connections with their community and families.
Duties And Responsibilities
- Support members in identifying and accessing local services and resources that meet their individual needs.
- Work collaboratively with the Strength Together Team to provide holistic support to individuals and families.
- Collaborate with community partners to access and secure services relevant to members' needs.
- Identify and help address barriers that may prevent members from accessing required services, including assisting with access to a family physician.
- Facilitate access to traditional healing practices and cultural activities that support holistic well-being and connection to culture.
- Develop and implement programs and groups that promote community well-being, including a monthly Wellness Event.
- Encourage participation in community programs, gatherings, and activities, particularly for members who may be isolated or disconnected from their community or family.
- Provide companionship and social support through conversation, games, and participation in activities.
- Assist members with grocery shopping, meal planning, and meal preparation, ensuring meals are nutritious and culturally appropriate.
- Support food security by identifying and connecting members with available food resources and programs.
- Research and identify grant opportunities and assist with grant applications related to community wellness.
- Promptly report concerns regarding a member's safety, health, or well-being to the appropriate supervisor.
- Monitor and report significant changes in a member's health, behaviour, or living conditions to the appropriate healthcare provider or supervisor.
- Maintain accurate and confidential records of services provided and complete required reporting using the MCase system.
- Participate in team meetings, training, and professional development opportunities.
- Provide relief or backup support to other employees or departments when appropriate based on training and experience.
Qualifications
- High School Diploma or equivalent, plus a post-secondary certificate or other education/training in Health Care Assistance, Gerontology, Home Support Work, or a related field.
- Equivalent work experience may be considered for candidates willing to work toward the required post-secondary education.
- Current First Aid and CPR certification.
- Mental Health First Aid certification is considered an asset.
- Experience working with Elders or individuals requiring personal care and/or home support.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Basic computer proficiency, including report writing, client information tracking, data entry, and reporting.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience with conflict resolution and management.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with clients, families, colleagues, and community members.
- Ability to demonstrate a high degree of professionalism and maintain confidentiality.
- Valid Class 5 Driver's Licence with a satisfactory Driver's Abstract.
- Patience, empathy, and a strong commitment to providing high-quality care.
- Sound understanding of health and safety practices in a home-care setting.
- Ability to safely lift, carry, and deliver food items and other supplies.
- Flexibility to work early mornings and evenings when required to support hamper distribution.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with Sqwá First Nation policies and procedures.
- Knowledge of and respect for Stó:lō culture, traditions, and language is considered an asset.
- Experience working within a First Nations community is considered an asset.
- Satisfactory Criminal Record Check is required.
- Professional appearance and a friendly, respectful, and cooperative manner.
Compensation & Work Schedule
- Status: Full-Time, Permanent
- Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Salary: $26.00 per hour
- Location: Sqwá First Nation, Chilliwack, BC
- Reports To: Director or Manager of Social Services
Professional Development
Sqwá First Nation encourages lifelong learning and supports employees in pursuing professional development opportunities. Additional training may be provided or required to ensure employees' skills continue to meet current and future organizational needs.