Indigenous Outreach Worker

Reporting to the Clinical Manager, the Indigenous Outreach Worker strengthens relationships between the organization and Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) communities; enhances cultural safety; promotes access to traditional healing and ceremony; and supports implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action within programs and services. The role collaborates with staff, clients, families, Knowledge Keepers/Elders/Healers, and community partners to ensure culturally appropriate, timely, and respectful care.

MINIMUM EDUCATION/REGISTRATION

• Diploma or degree in Social Services, Indigenous Studies, Child & Youth Care, or related human services field

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE

• Established connections with local Knowledge Keepers/Elders/Healers.
• Strong knowledge of Indigenous cultures, traditions, wellness models, and holistic approaches to care; ability to work with Indigenous children, youth, and families.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Training in trauma-informed practice and demonstrated understanding of intergenerational trauma, cultural safety, and Indigenous-specific racism.
• Relationship-building skills and experience collaborating across systems (health, education, social services, justice).
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 (Word, Outlook, Excel, Teams, PowerPoint) and client information systems.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and standards (e.g., CYFSA, PHIPA, Mental Health Act, Education Act, AODA).
• Valid Ontario Class “G” driver’s licence, reliable transportation, and ability to travel.
• Availability for flexible hours, including evenings/weekends, and on-call if required.
• Clear Criminal Record Check (including Vulnerable/Broader Sector Check).
• Full COVID-19 Vaccination.

Duties & Responsibilities:
Program / Service Delivery

1. Maintain confidentiality/privacy at all times in accordance with agency policy and legislation; obtain informed consent for the collection, use, and disclosure of personal health information and report breaches immediately.
2. Provide a welcoming, inclusive, and culturally safe environment that blends Indigenous approaches to wellness with evidence-informed practices; incorporate knowledge of culture, family, traditions, and community.
3. Observe and contribute to assessments and care planning through engagement and accurate documentation (daily notes, incident/serious occurrence reports, outcomes)
4. Offer strengths-based, trauma-informed, client-centred supports that promote safety, emotional regulation, problem-solving, decision-making, and skill development.
5. Support transitions and access to basic needs (e.g., transportation, food security, essential items) to reduce barriers to service.
6. Report suspected abuse or neglect in accordance with legislation and agency procedures.

Cultural Connection & Ceremony

7. Facilitate access to traditional healing, ceremony, and teachings (e.g., smudging, medicines, land-based activities) for clients and families in collaboration with Knowledge Keepers, Elders, and Healers.
8. Ensure cultural protocols, safety, and consent are respected when integrating ceremony into services and program spaces.

Client, Family & Community Support

9. Collaborate with clinicians and teams to coordinate culturally appropriate services, provide interim supports, and complete warm referrals and service navigation to Indigenous-led organizations.
10.Engage families and natural supports, strengthening circles of care and community connection.
11.Provide crisis response within scope (including safety planning, suicide alertness, and linkage to urgent supports).

Community Engagement & Partnership Building

12.Build and maintain relationships with local First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities and service providers; strengthen pathways and referral processes.
13.Represent the organization on relevant committees/initiatives and collaborate on joint programming that advances wellness and access.

Staff Education & Organizational Capacity

14.Offer cultural teachings/workshops and contribute to staff orientation and ongoing training to build cultural humility and safety across programs.
15.Advise on culturally safe practices, assess organizational needs, and recommend strategies to improve responsiveness to Indigenous clients and communities.

Truth & Reconciliation / Policy Development

16.Provide guidance on implementing TRC Calls to Action relevant to mental health and youth/family services; support development of culturally informed policies, procedures, and programs.

Administration

17.Complete timely, accurate documentation in agency systems; safeguard records in line with privacy and security standards.
18.Follow procedures for petty cash, timesheets (e.g., Dayforce), and other administrative processes; attend all-staff and team meetings.
19.Participate in orientation and coaching of new staff, students, and volunteers as assigned.

Health & Safety

20.Promote a culture of safety; comply with health and safety policies; identify hazards and facility issues; follow safe food handling and medication protocols when applicable.

Performance & Professional Development

21.Meet organizational performance benchmarks; participate in supervision (at least monthly); maintain current training/certifications (e.g., CPI, ASIST, First Aid/CPR); and pursue a professional development plan.

Other

22.Perform other related duties as assigned by the Manager/Supervisor to support program and organizational goals.
23.Participate on at least one agency committee and in agency events to support organizational goals, collaboration, and community engagement.

FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY

Physical: Occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs) and movement of supplies; reaching, bending, kneeling; outdoor activities in varying weather; repetitive administrative tasks (e.g., data entry); potential need to assist during escalations within the scope of training.

Mental: Exposure to distressed or acting-out behaviour; periods of focused concentration; multi-tasking and prioritization; sustained attention to detail.

Exposure to Hazardous Materials: Possible exposure to cleaning chemicals/biohazards; adherence to PPE and safety protocols. Smoke from smudging or ceremonial scents.

This position falls within the bargaining unit represented by the OPSEU.

Algoma Family Services (AFS) is committed to equity in access to employment and is a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from racialized persons, women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQIA+ and Gender Diverse persons, neurodiverse individuals, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. Applicants that may require accommodation during the selection process are encouraged to notify HR when contacted for an interview.

PLEASE SEND YOUR COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO recruitment@algomafamilyservices.org quoting # ADM-1007-02.