Who We Are

The Mikisew Cree First Nation (Mikisew) has lived on the ancestral lands of the Athabasca Delta and Wood Buffalo National Park in northeastern Alberta since time immemorial. The lives of our members are linked to the land and to a close understanding of traditions, history and a natural way of life. Many of our members live in the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, and our traditional lands range over a large portion of Athabasca oil sands deposits.

Who You Are

The Indigenous Family Support Advocate plays a crucial role in providing culturally sensitive support and advocacy for Indigenous families. This position assists families in navigating social, legal, and community systems, ensuring that their cultural, emotional, and practical needs are met. The advocate works closely with Indigenous communities, Band Designates, service providers, and organizations to ensure that Indigenous families receive the necessary cultural supports to thrive while respecting their traditions, values, and beliefs.

Location of this position is to be determined.

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Ensure that Indigenous families have access to culturally appropriate resources, including traditional knowledge, ceremonies, and language support.
• Advocate for the recognition and inclusion of Indigenous cultural practices and traditions in Child Intervention service delivery.
• Provide one-on-one support to Indigenous families, helping them navigate challenges related to Child Intervention.
• Empower families by providing information, resources, and guidance on their rights and responsibilities.
• Provide support to Band Designate in providing cultural opportunities for children & families, family circles, ceremonies etc.
• Assist families in understanding and addressing issues that impact their well-being, such as poverty, mental health, substance use, and domestic violence.
• Act as a liaison between Indigenous families and external service providers (e.g., child protection agencies, healthcare providers, educational institutions, legal services).
• Advocate for the needs of Indigenous families in various contexts, ensuring that their voices are heard and their cultural perspectives are considered.
• Provide case management support, including intake, assessments, and developing action plans for families in need of assistance.
• Connect families with necessary services, such as housing, financial support, legal assistance, and counseling, ensuring culturally appropriate service delivery.
• Follow up regularly to ensure families are receiving the support they need and to track progress.
• Provide services in a trauma-informed manner, recognizing the impact of historical and intergenerational trauma on Indigenous families.
• Offer a safe and supportive environment for families to share their experiences and challenges.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all interactions with families, including case notes, progress reports, and referrals.
• Ensure confidentiality and compliance with relevant legislation and policies.
• Prepare reports as required for funding agencies, internal stakeholders, or community organizations.
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

A degree or diploma in Social Work, Indigenous studies, counseling, or a related field. Equivalent experience may also be considered.

At least 2-3 years of experience working with Indigenous communities, preferably in a support, advocacy, or case management role.

Experience working knowledge of First Nations culture, traditions and values is a definite asset.

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to present information clearly and effectively

Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively

Compassionate and empathetic, with a strong understanding of the needs and sensitivities of children and families

Experience with restorative justice practices or community-based dispute resolution would be an asset.

Understanding of the legal and Child intervention systems, and the ability to navigate them in a culturally respectful manner

Ability to speak Cree or Dene is an asset.

Other Requirements

• Ability to organize time, set priorities and multi-task to meet various timelines.
• Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector
• Drivers Licence and Clean Drivers Abstract
• Intervention Record Check
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Excel, Teams and virtual meeting platforms.
• Possess exceptional judgement and always maintain high confidentiality in all interactions.
• Must be reliable and be prepared to work irregular hours depending on job demands.
• Must sign Oath of Confidentiality form.

Position is open until a suitable candidate is found. All applications will be reviewed, although only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Mikisew Cree First Nation is committed to equal opportunity employment and encourages applications from all qualified individuals. Final candidates for this position will be required to complete a security screening, which includes a criminal background check.

Kinanskomitin (Thank you) for your interest.