Family Advocate – Regional

Overview
Lac Seul First Nation is seeking a dedicated and motivated Family Advocate (Regional) to support children, youth, and families involved with child welfare agencies within their assigned regions. This position provides advocacy, case management, and culturally appropriate support to ensure the safety, well-being, and rights of Lac Seul First Nation children, youth, and families are protected.

The Family Advocate – Regional works closely with families, child welfare agencies, and service providers to ensure children remain connected to their family, community, and culture. This role may also act as a Band Representative in court proceedings when required.

Key Responsibilities are (but not limited to):

• Build and maintain strong, supportive relationships with families.
• Participate in planning meetings, case conferences, and care planning processes.
• Confirm Lac Seul First Nation membership for children and youth involved in care.
• Conduct home visits to assess safety, well-being, and family needs.
• Work directly with families to develop plans that strengthen stability and address child protection concerns.
• Advocate for culturally appropriate services and supports.
• Coordinate and make referrals to internal and external services.
• Maintain accurate and confidential case notes, records, and documentation.
• Upload all required documentation to the OSG database in a timely manner.
• Monitor open and investigation files with child welfare agencies.
• Ensure the First Nation is informed of placements, changes, and major decisions affecting children.
• Support families in understanding their rights and navigating the child welfare legal processes.
• Collaborate with legal partners to ensure decisions align with the best interests of the child.
• Attend and participate in court proceedings when required.
• Support transition planning and reunification processes.
• Travel to external communities, agencies, and placements as required.
• Provide follow-up visits and ongoing support to families.
• Prepare reports, summaries, and case updates as required.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

 Qualifications:

• Grade 12 (OSSD) or equivalent; post-secondary education in social services, child and youth work, or a related field is an asset.
• Experience working with children, youth, and families involved in child welfare.
• Experience working with First Nations communities and people.
• Knowledge of child welfare processes, advocacy, and case management practices.
• Strong understanding of First Nations culture, values, and traditions.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic documentation systems.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
• Ability to speak Ojibway is an asset.
• Frequent travel is required.
• Must provide a satisfactory Criminal Reference Check and Vulnerable Sector Check.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation.
• Must be legally entitled to work in Canada.

Location: Positions available in Dryden, Thunder Bay, and Winnipeg (frequent travel to Lac Seul First Nation and other locations as required)

Term: Permanent Full Time (subject to ongoing funding availability)

Salary: Starts at $31.35/hour *based on qualifications and experience.

Hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., may be required to work evenings and weekends

Please indicate the location you are applying for (Dryden, Thunder Bay, or Winnipeg) in your application.