Frontline Support Worker-FamilySupportWorker in Kenora, Ontario at Anishinaabe Abinoojii Family Services

JOB DESCRIPTION

FRONTLINE SUPPORT WORKER – FAMILY SUPPORT PROGRAMS

Contract - 6 months

Job Summary

The Frontline Support Worker - Family Support Programs provides direct support services to children, youth, and families receiving assistance through family support and prevention initiatives. The role focuses on strengthening family functioning, promoting child safety, and supporting healthy development through culturally respectful service delivery.

Working under the direction of the Resource Manager, the Frontline Support Worker assists families in accessing resources, participates in service planning, and provides practical and emotional support to children and caregivers. The position works collaboratively with internal staff, community partners, and First Nation communities to ensure services are responsive, culturally appropriate, and consistent with agency policies and legislative requirements.

This position is a six (6) month term contract intended to support program service delivery and family-focused interventions.

Key Responsibilities

Direct Family and Youth Support

• Provide direct support to children, youth, and families participating in Family Support Programs.
• Assist families in identifying needs and accessing appropriate community resources and supports.
• Support the implementation of family service plans developed by program staff.
• Promote positive parenting practices and assist families in strengthening relationships and communication.
• Engage youth through mentorship, coaching, and skill-building activities that encourage personal development and independence.
• Provide guidance related to life skills, education, wellness, and social development.

Service Coordination and Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with Resource Managers, counselors, and other service providers to support coordinated care for families.
• Participate in case discussions, team meetings, and service planning sessions.
• Support referrals to internal and external programs including counseling, cultural services, and community resources.
• Assist with organizing group activities, workshops, and family support initiatives.
• Maintain professional working relationships with community partners and service agencies.

Cultural and Community Engagement

• Deliver services in a manner that respects and reflects Anishinaabe cultural teachings, traditions, and values.
• Encourage participation in cultural programming and traditional healing practices where appropriate.
• Support families in maintaining connections to their communities, culture, and support networks.
• Promote the agency’s philosophy, mission, and service approach when engaging with families and community members.

Documentation and Administrative Support

• Maintain accurate and timely records of client interactions, service activities, and case notes in accordance with agency standards.
• Assist with preparing program documentation, summaries, and reports as required.
• Ensure confidentiality and proper handling of client information.
• Support administrative and program activities related to family support services.

Other Duties

• Participate in training, workshops, and professional development opportunities.
• Contribute to program initiatives and special projects assigned by the Resource Manager.
• Perform additional duties as required to support program operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Social Work Degree or Community College Diploma in Social Services, Child and Youth Care, or a related field.
• Experience working with children, youth, and families in a community or social service environment.
• Demonstrated understanding of the challenges affecting First Nation children and families.
• Knowledge of the Child, Youth and Family Services Act and child welfare service principles.
• Familiarity with Customary Care practices and First Nation community structures is considered an asset.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build supportive relationships with families and youth.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Effective organizational and time-management skills.
• Experience using office software and client documentation systems.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professional ethics.
• Valid Ontario G Driver’s Licence and access to a reliable vehicle.
• Clear Vulnerable Sector Check and Driver’s Abstract required.
• First Aid and CPR certification is considered an asset.
• Ability to speak Ojibway is considered a valuable asset.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The work will primarily be performed in a typical office environment at AAFS headquarters, with occasional travel to First Nation communities and external events. The position requires flexibility in working hours to accommodate community engagements and compliance activities. The incumbent must be prepared to handle political, mental, and social stress while managing complex compliance and quality assurance issues.

Accessibility and AODA Compliance:

Anishinaabe Abinoojii Family Services complies fully with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). We are dedicated to ensuring that our services, facilities, and job opportunities are accessible to individuals with disabilities. If you require accommodation during the application process or in the workplace, please contact us, and we will make every effort to provide the necessary support.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Statement:

At Anishinaabe Abinoojii Family Services, we are firmly dedicated to the principles of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). We believe that our organization's strength lies in the richness of our diversity and the inclusion of all voices and perspectives. As an organization deeply rooted in Anishinaabe culture and values, we are committed to fostering a workplace that reflects our community's diversity and to ensuring equitable access to our services for all individuals.

We invite individuals of all backgrounds to join us in our unwavering commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable community where every voice is heard, every identity is valued, and every person has the opportunity to flourish.