Position: Band Representative for Nigonigawbow Secretariat
SUMMARY:
The Band Representative works in partnership with the Wabaseemoong Independent Nations and is a highly motivated individual with exceptional advocacy skills, possessing critical knowledge of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act (Part IV). The Band Representative will act on behalf of Wabaseemoong Independent Nations as a party under the Child and Family Services Act to advocate for the best interest of the Children who are members of Wabaseemoong, or are eligible to be members of the First Nation, to ensure the rights of First Nation children and their families are respected and that they are included in planning for children deemed in need of protection.
This is a full-time position for 35 hours per week. Must be flexible and available for on-call after hours and during weekends as required. The successful
candidate will work under the direct supervision of the Director of Service of the Niigonigabow Secretariat.
KEY JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Effectively represents Wabaseemoong Independent Nations interests in Child Protection proceedings or hearings, involving children of Wabaseemoong Independent Nation to protect the collective best interest of Wabaseemoong child(ren) both on and off reserve;
- Ensures effective delivery and monitors practices guided by relevant strategies in accordance with Wabaseemoong Independent Nations Comprehensive Community Plan to safeguard the children, who are members of Wabaseemoong and who are involved with Welfare Agencies have their rights to their own culture and community protected and upheld;
- Provides support, advocates to maintain family units, advocates for satisfactory solutions to family problems, liaises with related service agencies and explains the child and family service system;
- Maintains a strong knowledge of the Child & Family Services Act, the policies and procedures of the Ministry of Children & Youth Services, Customary Care Provision and Kinship Care as CAS options rather than apprehension;
- Responsibilities include: completing and filing court forms; attending court appearances on behalf of Wabaseemoong; communicating with Chief & Council; representing the interests of Wabaseemoong. Meet all timelines as needed to meet legislation that governs families.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Minimum post-secondary (Diploma or Degree) in Social Work, Social Science or related field;
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience working in Social Services or related field in a First Nation;
- Proven ability of accurate and comprehensive recordkeeping including keeping an up-todate case log;
- Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills; Excellent time management and strong organization skills;
- A multi-tasker;
- Proven ability to maintain confidentiality;
- Excellent computer skills for reporting and presentation purposes, and general office equipment knowledge;
- Must have valid Class ‘G’ driver’s license with $1M liability insurance with reliable method of transportation;
- Current Criminal Reference Check and Vulnerable Sector Search required (if position offered).
Specialization required:
- Extensive knowledge of the Child and Family Services Act (CFSA) including Part IV;
- The Ministry of Child and Youth Services;
- And local Children’s Aid Societies- Ability to establish and develop an active working relationship with all Child and Family Services;
- Ability to work collaboratively with staff, community members, Chief & Council, and government agencies.
- Confident working with justice system and other community service providers.
- Knowledge of WIN community customs, traditions and language is considered an asset.
- Demonstrates strong negotiation skills and techniques;
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and in stressful situations;
- Exhibits strong written, verbal and evaluation skills;
- Current First Aid/ CPR with AED certification and update as required
Considered an asset:
- Native Child and Family Service Worker Diploma
- Full understanding of Customary Care an asset
- Experience with ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution)
- Experience within a multi-disciplinary team approach
- Experience and proficiency in program administration with a solid knowledge base and proficiency in program and service development, delivery and evaluation
- Experience working with children, youth and families;
- Knowledge and use of the Ojibwe language
HOW TO APPLY:
Applications MUST include a cover letter, resume and three work-related references and/or letters of reference.
Please send resumes to:
Betsy Mandamin, Executive Director
Niigonigabow Secretariat – A division of Wabaseemoong Independent Nations
betsymandamin@outlook.com
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS FRIDAY JULY 10, 2020 AT NOON.
