Who We Are: Located on the traditional territories of the Lkwungen People, Surrounded by Cedar Child & Family Services’ (SCCFS) vision is to support the empowerment of the urban Indigenous community to continue the reclamation of traditional systems of caring for and protecting children so no child or youth will be placed into care. As an urban Delegated Indigenous Child and Family Services Agency (ICFSA), SCCFS is committed to providing child and family services strongly rooted in Indigenous cultural values and world views while ensuring urban Indigenous children and youth grow up connected to family, community, and culture.

Surrounded by Cedar receives its delegation through the Provincial Director of Child Welfare, who gives the agency the authority to undertake administration of parts of the Child, Family and Community Service Act (CFCSA). Under its current delegation agreement, Surrounded by Cedar administers C3 (Voluntary Services) and C4 services (Guardianship).

SCCFS strives to be a culturally safe employer, with a keen focus on Indigenous recruitment and retention. While working at the agency, employees will be involved in various cultural knowledge sharing opportunities, activities, and ceremonies, while being actively engaged in urban Indigenous community events.

Sxwamales: Gifts from our ancestors or family’s box of treasures. Often used to refer to children.

The Opportunity: Join a team that values your contributions and allows you to grow your career while utilizing your unique skills, creativity, and passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of urban Indigenous youth, and families.

In the role as a Sxwamales Worker, you will have the opportunity to:

• Build and nurture positive, meaningful relationships with urban Indigenous children, youth, young adults and their families through various cultural programming opportunities and agency events.
• Support the delivery of day, evening and weekend programming and events which aim to strengthen cultural identity and learning for children, youth and young adults in and from care.
• Nurture and support the agency’s dynamic Youth Advisory Council, including travel from time to time, outreach and participating in various cultural learning opportunities.
  Assist with organizing ceremonies and events along with the SCCFS team which honour and uphold the sacredness of children and the many Nations that make up the Urban Indigenous community.

Position Summary
Reporting to the Cultural Programs Coordinator, the Sxwamales Worker plays a critical role in assisting with the development and delivery of meaningful cultural programming for our most sacred gifts, our urban Indigenous children and youth in care who belong to Nations across Turtle Island. Engaging as a mentor and ongoing support, the Sxwamales Worker will be responsible for nurturing and providing direct support to the agency’s Youth Advisory Council. From time to time, the Sxwamales Worker may be called upon to act as a cultural resource, including offering insight into nurturing the cultural identities of urban Indigenous children and youth in care through the agency’s collaborative planning meetings.

Working Conditions
Work is performed in a variety of settings including the SCCFS office and community settings. Overnight travel is required, which may include travel to isolated and/or remote areas throughout Canada. Must be willing to spend time on the land in a variety of elements. This may include overnight stays on the land. Some travel to attend meetings and/or training. Evening and weekend work will be required.

What You Bring to the Role: 

• Diploma in Health and Human Services, Sociology, or related field.
• At least 2 years of experience working with or within an Indigenous community.
• Experience working with children, youth and families experiencing multiple barriers (multiple placements, homelessness, poverty, addiction, mental health, trauma etc.).
• Training and experience in culturally based healing and wellness models for Indigenous peoples.
• Current B.C. Class 5 Driver’s license, satisfactory driver’s abstract, adequate vehicle insurance including business coverage and access to a safe reliable vehicle.
• Clear criminal records check.
• Available and willing to work some evenings and weekends and to travel from time to time.

What We Have to Offer:

• Competitive wages, comprehensive benefits and a matched RRSP contribution plan
• A healthy working environment rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing and being.
• Flexible work schedules and leave opportunities that promote work/life/family balance.
• Physical wellness funds to support your overall well-being.
• Professional development and learning opportunities to enhance your skills.

Wage:  $67,728.87 – $77,012.22 annually depending on experience.

Preference will be given to qualified applicants who self-identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit as per Section 41of the BC Human Rights Code.

Along with your resume, please submit a cover letter outlining why you are interested in this opportunity, what specific skills and experience you will bring, and how your qualifications and cultural experience and knowledge will make you successful in this role.

Visit our website to apply online, for more information about this position, the agency and to view the full job description.

Application Deadline: Tuesday, September 12th, 2023, at 11:59pm.