Wellness Assistant at Nakazdli Whuten – Fort St. James, British Columbia

Job Title: Community Wellness Assistant

Location: Fort St. James, Nak’azdli Whut’en Health Center

Number of Positions: 1

Employment Type: Term (1 Year)

Reporting Manager: Health Manager

Wage: $21.05 to $ 24.18 an hour based on experience

About Us

Nak'azdli Whut'en is a proud Dakelh First Nation located near Fort St. James, British Columbia. Our community is deeply rooted in Dakelh culture, language, and values, emphasizing a connection to the land and a commitment to the well-being of our people. We are dedicated to creating inclusive and supportive services that reflect our culture and respect the unique perspectives and needs of our members. At Nak'azdli Whut'en, we strive to provide community-focused health and social services that uphold Indigenous values and address the distinct challenges facing our community.

Job Summary

The Community Wellness Assistant supports the delivery of community-based wellness services for members of Nak’azdli Whut’en. This position focuses on outreach, client engagement, program facilitation, and wellness support in the community.

Working under the daily supervision of the Community Wellness Coordinator, the Community Wellness Assistant assists individuals and families who may be experiencing challenges related to mental health, substance use, trauma, grief, or other life stressors. The role helps connect community members to appropriate support and encourages participation in culturally grounded wellness programming.

This position is primarily community-based and involves extensive outreach activities, including home visits, outdoor programming, evening events, and engagement with community members outside the Health Centre. The successful candidate must be comfortable working independently in the community while maintaining strong communication with the Wellness Team.

Key Responsibilities:

Community Outreach and Engagement

• Conduct regular outreach to community members to promote wellness services and programs.
• Build supportive relationships with individuals and families who may benefit from wellness support.
• Participate in community events, gatherings, and cultural activities that promote healing and wellness.
• Assist with outreach efforts related to mental wellness, addiction recovery, and community healing initiatives.

Client Support and Follow-Up

• Provide supportive engagement with community members who are seeking assistance with wellness concerns.
• Assist clients in identifying wellness goals and accessing appropriate support and services.
• Support follow-up with individuals participating in wellness programs or recovery initiatives.
• Maintain regular contact with clients to encourage continued engagement in wellness activities.
• Provide practical support such as helping clients attend appointments, programs, or community support when appropriate.

Home Visits and Community-Based Support

• Conduct home visits with individuals or families who require wellness support.

• Provide community-based assistance and follow-up for individuals participating in recovery or wellness programs.
• Assist with home-based support activities when required, including check-ins and wellness support.
• Work respectfully with Elders, families, and individuals in their homes while maintaining professional boundaries.

Program and Event Facilitation

• Assist in facilitating wellness programs, workshops, and healing activities.
• Support outdoor activities, land-based healing initiatives, and community events.
• Assist with organizing and facilitating evening programming and wellness gatherings.
• Help prepare materials, set up events, and support participant engagement during programs.

Wellness Planning Support

• Assist the Community Wellness Coordinator with client wellness planning and support strategies.
• Help connect individuals with appropriate internal or external resources such as treatment programs, counseling services, or recovery supports.
• Encourage participation in programs that support healing, prevention, and healthy living.

Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain basic records of client engagement, outreach activities, and program participation when required.
• Assist with tracking program attendance and participation.
• Provide updates to the Community Wellness Coordinator regarding outreach activities and client follow-up.

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with the Community Wellness Coordinator and other Health Centre staff.
• Maintain regular communication with the Wellness Team regarding client needs and outreach activities.
• Participate in team meetings, planning sessions, and training opportunities.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• High School Diploma and relevant post-secondary training or certifications.
• Experience working in community services, wellness programs, or social services is an asset.
• Knowledge of mental health, addiction recovery, trauma-informed practice, or community healing is preferred.
• Experience working with First Nations communities or Indigenous wellness programming is an asset.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to build trusting relationships with community members.
• Ability to work independently in community settings.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

Working Conditions:

• Ability to work respectfully with individuals experiencing trauma, addiction, grief, or other life challenges.
• Demonstrated commitment to cultural safety and community wellness.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and professional boundaries at all times.
• Clear Criminal Record Check with vulnerability
• Valid BC Driver’s License required for community outreach and home visits.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications
• Comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Extended health and dental coverage
  • Pension contributions
  • Clinical supervision and peer support
  • Professional development and training allowance
  • Employee wellness supports

Hours of Work

Your regular hours or work will be from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm for 7 hours per day from Monday to Friday and it is expected that all work will be completed within your regular working hours. However, you may be required from time to time to work outside your normal hours of work or on weekends.

Indigenous Commitment Statement

"Nak'azdli Whut'en is committed to fostering a culturally safe and inclusive work environment that reflects the values, traditions, and aspirations of Indigenous peoples. We actively encourage and prioritize applicants from First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities.to apply. We recognize the importance of cultural knowledge and experience, and we honor and respect Indigenous ways of knowing and being."

Application Instructions

Nak’azdli Whut’en offers the opportunity to lead with purpose and create meaningful change for our community. As Community Wellness Assistant you will have the chance to shape the future, empower a talented team, and build a legacy that reflects our values and aspirations. If this aligns with your career goals, we encourage you to apply directly through our job posting. You can also send us an email with your resume, cover letter and three references at jobs@nakazdliwhuten.ca