Family Support Worker

Education and Training

·         Post-secondary diploma or degree in Social Work, Child and Youth Work, Family Support, Indigenous Studies, Social Services, Psychology, Addictions and Mental Health, or a related field.

·         An equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience may be considered.

Experience

·         Minimum of two years of experience in social services, family support, child and youth services, community wellness, case management, or a related helping profession.

·         Experience supporting children, youth, parents, caregivers, and families with complex needs, including poverty, housing instability, food insecurity, mental health concerns, substance use, family violence, grief, or child and family wellness concerns.

·         Experience completing assessments, goal planning, referrals, advocacy, follow-up, documentation, and coordinated service planning.

·         Experience working with First Nation communities, Indigenous families, or Indigenous service organizations is strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

·         Knowledge of trauma-informed, strengths-based, family-centered, and culturally safe approaches to service delivery.

·         Understanding of Indigenous child and family wellness, including the impacts of colonization, intergenerational trauma, systemic barriers, and the importance of culture, family, community, and connection.

·         Knowledge of Jordan’s Principle, including eligibility, referral pathways, documentation requirements, wraparound planning, and available supports, or willingness to obtain training.

·         Knowledge of relevant legislation and responsibilities, including the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, duty to report, privacy, confidentiality, and client consent.

·         Ability to respond calmly and appropriately to urgent or crisis situations within the scope of the role, including basic safety planning and connection to emergency or specialized services.

·         Strong communication, active listening, advocacy, relationship-building, and conflict resolution skills.

·         Strong documentation, reporting, organizational, time management, and follow-up skills.

·         Proficiency with Microsoft Office, email, internet-based tools, electronic records, and standard office equipment.

Other Requirements

·         Valid Ontario driver’s license and access to a reliable personal vehicle.

·         Able to provide a satisfactory driver’s abstract and Vulnerable Sector Check.

·         Able and willing to travel and work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends, as required.