Community Connection Worker (Contract)

Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society (KAFS) was established in 1972 and is a non-profit organization with a status free open-door policy. KAFS is dedicated to empowering the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities of Kamloops and surrounding areas. KAFS provides culturally appropriate programs and inclusive services that meet the needs of urban Indigenous people to become healthier, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

THE OPPORTUNITY:

The Community Connection Worker is responsible for increasing access to culturally safe and relevant supports for individuals and families, particularly those navigating systems such as Community Living British Columbia (CLBC). This is a full-time contract position ending January 31, 2027, with the possibility of extension based on funding. This role primarily serves Indigenous adults and engages their families and support networks as part of strengthening connection to community and culture.

Reporting to the Executive Director or designate, this position focuses on supporting cultural and community connection, enhancing coordinated planning among service providers, and helping individuals navigate eligibility, planning, referrals, and service initiation processes. The role integrates case management, advocacy, cultural programming, land-based healing, and community engagement to ensure participants feel supported, empowered, and connected.

A DAY IN THE LIFE – ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Complete participant intakes and obtain informed consent for services.
• Develop an Individual Support Plan (ISP) for each participant within 45 days of intake.
• Provide navigation and advocacy support within the CLBC system, ensuring each participant receives a minimum of three (3) CLBC navigation actions (eligibility, planning meetings, referrals, service start).
• Strengthen coordinated planning among service providers to enhance service integration and participant outcomes.
• Embed Indigenous culture and cultural safety in programming and community-based activities, with a strong willingness to learn and engage respectfully.
• Plan and support a minimum of ten (10) land-based outings per year.
• Arrange and coordinate Elder and/or Knowledge Keeper engagement in programming.
• Implement a minimum of twelve (12) talking circles or family strengthening events annually.
• Execute four (4) community events annually (one per quarter) celebrating culture, wellness, and inclusion.
• Support family and community reconnection activities.
• Attend case conferences and service planning meetings as an advocate for participants.
• Participate in quarterly collaboration meetings with service providers and partners.
• Maintain accurate documentation, reporting, and service tracking in accordance with funder requirements.
• Contribute to required monthly, quarterly, and annual program reporting.
• Monitor participant progress and update support plans as needed.
• Build strong partnerships with community organizations, cultural leaders, and service providers.
• Track program deliverables and participant outcomes to ensure alignment with established performance targets.
• Contribute to program evaluation, knowledge-sharing activities, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Diploma in Social Services or the equivalent from a two-year program and related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A minimum of 4 years’ experience in the social services field, including case management and coordinated service planning.
• Experience supporting individuals navigating disability or community living systems.
• Experience facilitating cultural or community-based programming.
• Knowledge of Indigenous culture, traditions, and community engagement practices.

OUR “MUST HAVES” THAT MAKE YOU GREAT:

• Strong understanding of culturally safe and trauma-informed practice.
• Ability to develop and implement Individual Support Plans, with strong advocacy and systems navigation skills.
• Experience facilitating group sessions and land-based programming.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple events and activities annually.
• Excellent documentation and reporting skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Cultural humility, empathy, and strong relationship-building abilities, with the ability to build trust and rapport with participants and families.
• Ability to coordinate Elder and Knowledge Keeper participation respectfully and appropriately.
• Strong community networking and partnership-building skills.

 WORKING SCHEDULE:

• Full-time contract position ending January 31, 2027, with the possibility of extension based on funding
• Monday – Friday/35 hours per week
• Occasional evenings and weekends required for cultural programming and community events

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:

• Valid BC Driver’s License and access to a reliable vehicle
• Satisfactory 5-year Driver’s Abstract
• Satisfactory Criminal Record Check

• $28.00–$32.00/hour, based on skill set and experience
• Professional development opportunities
• Culturally grounded and supportive team environment

Preference will be given to applicants of Aboriginal ancestry as per section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code (please self-identity in your cover letter).