Community Wellness Worker

**Community Wellness Worker**

Department: Health Services

Classification/Level: CS-03 ($$53,591.20 - $65,499.20)

Status: Regular Full-Time

**Reporting Relationship**
The incumbent reports to the Health Services Department.

**Position Summary**
The Community Wellness Worker responds to inquiries regarding activities and community information, providing leadership in designing culturally appropriate programs and services. These services focus on, but are not limited to, addressing both existing and emerging issues related to family violence, health, healing, wellness, and intergenerational trauma. The Community Wellness Worker will work directly with clients to help them achieve and maintain healthy, balanced lives by promoting positive changes in values, attitudes, and behaviors.

This position requires exceptional interpersonal communication and advocacy skills, along with a strong knowledge of First Nations culture, language, and traditional ceremonies and practices. Participants will receive services in a timely manner, with respect for sensitive situations, while maintaining confidentiality at all times.

**Essential Functions**

**Client Support & Advocacy**:

- Provide 1-on-1 and group support to address family and community violence, trauma healing, and overall wellness.
- Build trusting relationships with clients, conduct needs assessments, and manage client intake, documentation, and case management (advocacy, referrals, and case notes).
- Assist clients in securing appointments, transportation, personal identification, and safe, stable living environments.
- Encourage healthy choices using harm reduction methods and support clients through their healing journey, connecting them with after-care programs.

**Cultural & Wellness Support**:

- Facilitate cultural education and healing activities, including counselling, traditional ceremonies, and workshops (e.g., sewing, beading, healing circles).
- Provide life skills training and resources, integrating Indigenous culture into all wellness activities.

**Community Engagement & Event Coordination**:

- Plan and facilitate community events (e.g., Christmas Party, Powwow, Remembrance Day), recruit and train volunteers, and support community committees.
- Distribute information about community events and wellness initiatives through newsletters, websites, and other platforms.
- Coordinate the Seven Grandfather Teaching Awards ceremony, including the nomination and selection process.

**Collaboration & External Relations**:

- Work with MFN staff, Elders, and external partners to enhance wellness initiatives and community engagement.
- Liaise with the Union of Ontario Indians on wellness opportunities and resources.
- Assist with the creation and maintenance of historical records, ancestry files, and culturally centered support for funeral/estate planning.

**Program Management & Reporting**:

- Prepare and submit grant proposals for wellness initiatives, manage the annual wellness program budget, and present quarterly financial reports.
- Ensure timely submission of Ministry-required reports and documents, including forms, budgets, and program statistics.

**Administrative & Professional Responsibilities**:

- Maintain secure and confidential client files in accordance with PIPEDA regulations and MFN policies.
- Act as a professional representative of M’Chigeeng First Nation and participate in continuous learning and mandatory training to stay current with industry trends and regulations.
- Attend team, staff, and community meetings and perform additional duties as assigned by the Health Department Manager or Chief and Council.

**Qualifications and Requirements**

**Education & Experience**:

- Grade 12 diploma or equivalent required; post-secondary degree or diploma in Social Services, Human Services, or a related field preferred.
- 2-3 years of experience providing health and social support services, preferably in an Indigenous setting.
- Previous experience working with volunteers in a non-profit setting is an asset.

**Skills & Knowledge**:

- Strong understanding of First Nations’ cultures, values, and history required; knowledge of M’Chigeeng First Nation community and practices is an asset.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (both written and verbal), with the ability to build professional relationships with clients and community agencies.
- Strong public speaking, advocacy, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills.
- Exceptional organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks.

**Certifications & Licenses**:

- Valid Ontario Class G Driver’s License with access to a reliable, insured vehicle.
- First Aid and CPR Level C certification and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention training certificate are assets.

**Additional Requirements**:

- Ability to work independently with mínimal direction.
- Willingness to travel and work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and on-call wh