Child and Youth Worker

**The Program**

610 McKenzie House

This home-based program located near Southgate mall in Edmonton, currently provides Indigenous culturally-based programming for up to 5 female youth ages 11 to 15.

Through positive role-modeling and a trauma-informed approach to care, our youth workers focus on the personal empowerment, help youth plan for their future, and create healthy relationships with their families & communities.

Each youth (between ages 3 to 17 years) has access to our Indigenous Resource Coordinator who provides individual support as needed and opportunities to access traditional Indigenous teachings, cultural opportunities including sweats, sharing circles, smudging, pipe ceremonies, feasts, round dances, languages and access to community Elders and Knowledge Keepers.

**In Your Role You Will**

Working approximately 11pm to 8am (awake) scheduled times and location may vary

Hours are set by the employer and are not negotiable.

Typical overnight shift may include:

- 11pm (overnight awake) ensure a consistent, healthy and safe environment for children in care, including regular bed checks. Assist with any night time supports as required.
- From time client(s) wake - 8am
- wake youth according to schedule, assist/model a regular morning routine: prepare and serve/eat dinner family-style with the kids, assist younger kids with brushing teeth/hair, dressing, etc
- 8am - day shift arrives, shift exchange
- Be a positive role model for the children & youth.
- Ensure individuals basic needs are met
- Assist with operation/maintenance of the residence/program facility (May include cleaning, laundry, dishwashing, vacuuming or assisting the youth in care with the completion of these tasks, etc.)
- Cooperate with other team members to plan, support and/or deliver culturally appropriate programs, services, workshops, and outings.
- Complete paperwork - log book, contact notes, medication, Critical Incident reports etc.

**The Position**

During overnight hours (approx. 11pm to 8am), the Youth Worker, working night awake shifts, will support and supervise children & youth living at the home, ensuring a consistent, healthy and safe environment and immediate support in crisis situations. The Youth Worker will also perform household cleaning duties, complete log notes/reports, etc.

**Criminal Record Check/Ministry Check Statement**

** Prior to confirmation of employment all applicants must provide a current (dated within 6 months of hiring date) Criminal Record Check and Ministry Check. These checks can take up to 6 weeks to obtain, please ensure you prepare accordingly.**
- Min. 2 years' experience Child and Youth Work, in a group home &/or community setting
- Experience supporting/teaching Indigenous children/youth, is an asset
- Certificate, Diploma or Degree in Social Work, Child and Youth Work, other human services, Education, Sociology or Psychology, Criminology, etc.
- Must be able to handle crisis situations, to ensure safety for youth in the program.
- First Aid/CPR Certificate
- Suicide Intervention, Self Harm, Crisis Intervention and Medication Administration training
- Indigenous Awareness and cultural diversity training
- An understanding of Indigenous cultural practices and traditions
- Able to work and follow Spirit of Our Youth Homes Inc. policies and procedures and adhere to Alberta Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act.
- Able to lift 50 lbs.

Internal applicants must successfully complete their probationary period prior to applying

Not sure you meet the requirements? We still welcome you to apply, as we may be able to consider diverse combinations of skills, education and experience.
**What WJS Canada does**

In 2013, Spirit of our Youth became part of WJS Canada, the largest privately-owned national social services company in Canada. While operating autonomously, Spirit has full access to the extensive WJS Canada resources. Each day 600 dedicated WJS employees provide a wide range of proven and innovative services to more than 1300 people in three provinces. WJS serves many First Nation and Métis communities in British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, emphasizing cultural diversity and respect.

Spirit of Our Youth was started in 2000 out of a passion for helping Aboriginal youth. From one home in Central Edmonton we have grown to operate five Group Homes, a Supported Independent Living program, as well as a Drive and Supervised Visits program.

**Our Employees Enjoy**
- Employer-paid Dental & Extended Health benefits, as applicable
- Matching RRSP plan for eligible employees
- Staff training and opportunities to learn/work in a wide array of programs.
- An empowering balance of independence and supervision.
- Best practices programming and innovative care

**Website reference**

**Closing Statement**

We recognize that equity diversity and inclusion (EDI) is an important element in our work and in our day to day lives.