Memengwaa Relief Support Worker

The Memengwaa Support Worker (R) is responsible for assisting transition home tenants in living a life free of violence by providing daily in-depth life skills and Anishinaabe traditional programming and playing a key role in supporting Indigenous women transitioning to independence These services and programs are offered within the organization’s Anishinabe Health and Wellness Framework.

**Key Responsibilities/Duties**

To work from a wholistic perspective, utilizing the teachings of the medicine wheel and Seven Grandfather Teachings.

To utilize Elders and Knowledge Holders for teachings, healing and guidance.

To take personal responsibility to increase sensitivity, awareness and implementation of Beendigen’s cultural teachings and organizational practices in both professional conduct and work-related deliverables.

To provide safe, non-judgmental and empowering support to women who are at risk of violence.

To provide a welcoming environment and resident orientation with new tenants.

To determine individual client needs and support them in achieving their goals by providing resources and information to Beendigen and community programming and workshops.

To assist in the facilitation of cultural programming, traditional crafting, Elder support, and sharing circles.

To assist in the facilitation of life skills workshops covering a range of topics pertinent to independence, healthy living, and goal achievement including but not limited to: self-care, home management, shopping, meal planning, food preparation, budgeting, safety planning, physical health support, self-advocacy, problem solving, social/interpersonal skills, and conflict resolution.

To facilitate group activities and outings for tenants to explore life skills or personal development.

To provide one-on-one life skills education and support for residents as required.

To collaborate with community partners to ensure programming and activities offer knowledgeable and relevant content.

To provide reports, written program information and documentation as required by the agency and Program Manager.

To maintain assessment reports, activity records, support service documents, record keeping and summary notes in accordance with Best Practices.

To notify the Program Manager of any unusual cases, irregularities, accidents or illnesses.

To maintain all standards of health and safety for the protection of tenants.

To provide back up coverage for the Crisis Home Shelter when needed.

To provide crisis intervention services in the event of a crisis and in the event of an emergency at the Memengwaa home.

To enter in items on the Wish Database and maintain good case files

To constructively participate in staff, team and committee meetings, seminars and training sessions as required.

To be prepared to work in conjunction with the philosophy and mandate of the Organization.

To preserve confidentiality of all residents, clients, tenants, staff, students, volunteers and agency information.

To represent the organization in a positive and professional manner at all times.

Any other duties as requested by the Program Manager; commensurate with role.

The above statements are the general functions of the position, and should not be interpreted as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may pertain to the job.

**Key Selection Criteria**

**Required**:

- Social Services education and/or relevant front-line experience.
- Excellent written, oral and presentation skills.
- Knowledge of Indigenous culture, tradition, language and Indigenous community.
- Demonstrated experience in facilitating and delivering cultural programming.
- Demonstrated experience in coordinating and delivering programming.
- Demonstrated commitment to the Violence Against Women sector.

**Preferred**:
Social Services Diploma or comparable diploma.

Experience working in an Indigenous organization.

Ability to speak Ojibway, Oji-Cree, or Cree.

**Knowledge, Skills and Abilities**:
Experience in delivering life skills education, group facilitation and advocacy.

Extensive knowledge and experience in individual and group work and family violence issues.

Ability to view situations free from personal values, interests, beliefs, or judgment.

To identify and manage house dynamics and promote a positive peer environment.

Ability to handle difficult situations and distance oneself from client’s problems or emotions.

Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Knowledge about sensitivity to cultural differences and various economic backgrounds.

Ability to act quickly and appropriately in situations of conflict in a direct, non-confrontational way.

Strong interpersonal skills.

**Working Conditions**

The Memengwaa Support Worker (R) usually works in a residential setting but the mission of the organization may sometimes take them to non-standard workplaces.

The Memengwaa Support Worker (R) may work from 0 to 40 hours per week based on operational needs and