Circle Keeper

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**Hi. We’re Trellis.**

Trellis Society is committed to active Reconciliation in alignment with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) 94 calls to action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Reconciliation is a highly valued and integrated part of our culture and work. Trellis’ Reconciliation journey is intentional with meaningful engagement from all team members both collectively and as individuals.

Trellis Society is focused on futures to provide a continuum of services to people from all backgrounds, including those with complex needs. Trellis meets people where they are in their journeys, whether they’re growing up strong, aspiring to achieve life goals or turning over a new leaf. With our support, people from all walks of life are empowered to reach their potential and move beyond systemic barriers and cultivate great outcomes.

Our programs focus on improving access to resources, developing family and community supports and building people’s capacity to deal with life’s challenges. At Trellis we work with children, youth, adults, families and communities to unearth their potential and support their growth.

Our Values:
We define who we are through living our values to achieve our vision to support everyone reach their full potential.
- Courage: we willingly embrace growth, and don’t see it as optional
- Empathy: we relentlessly care about the growth of others and won’t let anyone go unsupported
- Learning: we choose to grow through uncertainty, even when the status quo feels easier
- Impact: we go beyond what seems doable and prove that growth is possible.

The resounding impact we have on individuals and communities is thanks to our network of passionate, open minded and dedicated staff who are committed to the work they do everyday. We are looking for people who are eager to make an impact, while continuing to grow their expertise.

**Position Summary**

Guided by various Elders and Knowledge Keepers, the Circle Keeper ensures practice remains true to the diverse and unique ancestry of the individuals we serve, utilizing traditional teachings, practices, protocols, and ceremony. The Circle Keeper supports Indigenous people throughout all stages of their healing journey and ensures that all Trellis employees working with Indigenous people are provided the teachings and guidance to create a culturally safe environment.
- This is a one year contract for a full time 37.5 hour per week position, supporting multiple Trellis programs but focusing on Trellis’ Group Care Transformation Project. Hours worked will be flexible and dependent on client availability and need. Staff must have access to a reliable vehicle and will be expected to work in the community, in homes, or Trellis spaces as needed.

This position will also work collaboratively with the other Trellis Circle Keepers and the Director of Indigenous Initiatives to embed reconciliation across Trellis by ensuring Indigenous worldviews and paradigms are discussed and taught.

**Accountability and Responsibilities**- Provide leadership, mentorship, and support for individuals with Indigenous system navigation, connecting individuals to internal and external Indigenous resources and connecting individuals to Elders, ceremonies and medicines
- Ensure traditional knowledge and ways of knowing are embedded in daily practice
- Represent agency at external events and be familiar with other resources in community
- Ensure files and evaluation aspects are completed and meet contract needs
- Support and enhancement of capacity learning with your team and colleagues as needed
- Responsible for program planning and facilitation that is child/youth/family driven
- Attending required training opportunities within the appropriate timeframe

**What You’ll Bring to the Role**:
- Bachelor’s degree in a related human services or social services field with three to five years recent related experience, **or** an equivalent combination of education, training and experience
- Strong knowledge and experience of Indigenous culture and ways of knowing is required, including experience and teachings in hosting circles (sharing, healing and grief)
- Understanding of colonization, intergenerational trauma and systemic factors
- Knowledge and understanding of paralleling western and Indigenous practices
- External connection to Indigenous community in Calgary and surrounding areas
- Experience working with vulnerable children and families involving community development in group facilitation and one to one support
- Knowledge of child and youth developmental stages along with family development frameworks including strength-based, trauma-informed care, stages of change, family and natural supports frameworks
- Strong ability to build relationships with children, youth and families
- Strong leadership, organizational, documentation and time management skills

**Additional Requirements**
- Valid Class 5 Driver's License and D