Community Liaison Worker (Family Violence Prevention)

Overview

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:
Under the direction of the Family Violence Manager at the Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society (KAFS), the Family Violence Prevention Community Liaison Worker supports clients impacted by family violence by developing community resource lists, with appropriate contacts for safety plans, so that case workers can connect clients. The Community Liaison Worker will collaborate with local services and will accompany Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) social workers on domestic violence calls if needed, and will provide culturally sensitive, trauma-informed support. The Community Liaison Worker visits all local organizations involved in family violence services to explore partnership opportunities and receive client referrals and build a referral network. The Community Liaison Worker will promote interagency collaboration by working closely with the FVP team and coordinate with representatives of like-minded organizations to attend and facilitate presentations at the office.

Acting as a bridge between Indigenous families and the MCFD, the Community Liaison Worker fosters open communication and mutual respect. Through community outreach and educational sessions, this role strengthens partnerships, raise awareness, and support evolving program needs.

A DAY IN THE LIFE – ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Work collaboratively with potential partners to gather information and resources for case workers to maintain comprehensive safety plans tailored to the client’s unique needs and circumstances.
• Assist case workers with organizing and managing files related to services and training provided by partner organizations.
• Ensure thorough and accurate documentation, adhering to privacy and confidentiality standards. Regularly update files and monitor progress, ensuring accuracy and transparency in all records.
• Maintain continuous contact with the FVP team to reach team objectives and provide assistance, as needed.
• Facilitate connections to local resources and organizations, including KAFS and other Kamloops-based services, to provide comprehensive support options to the FVP team for clients.
• Accompany Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) social workers during calls related to domestic violence, ensuring culturally sensitive and trauma-informed support.
• Support the FVP team with preparations for training and cultural sessions.
• Organize meetings for the FVP to bring together team members and stakeholders to collaborate on cases, review progress, and strategize for client safety and support.
• Act as a bridge between families, and the MCFD and partner organizations, fostering open communication, understanding, and collaboration in culturally sensitive ways that respect the autonomy and perspectives of Indigenous families.
• Work closely with direct service staff, external service providers, and family members, including spouses where appropriate, to support women in increasing their safety, stability, and connection to community resources.
• Initiate outreach to potential community partners and organizations, organizing presentations and educational sessions about the FVP program.
• Coordinate training sessions, along with the FVP team, for partners to help build awareness and support for the FVP program and encourage partners to share their insights on collaboration opportunities and a path to violence prevention.
• Serve as a support and resource for case workers, keeping the team updated on workshops, events, and training opportunities relevant to family violence prevention and intervention.
• Promote the FVP program within the community by organizing informational sessions, fostering relationships with local organizations, and raising awareness about available services.
• Perform other duties as required, adapting to the evolving needs of the FVP Team to ensure comprehensive support for clients and the community.

REQUIREMENTS – WHAT YOU BRING TO KAFS:

• Bachelors Degree in Social Work or related field is preferred*.
• Demonstrated experience in addressing violence against Indigenous women; family violence, and case-management*.
• Completion of Foundations in Domestic Violence Training or other similar entry level certification preferred.
• Knowledge of:
  • Indigenous cultural traditions, spiritual practices, and protocols, particularly within the Secwepemc and surrounding Indigenous communities.
  • Integrated Case Management.
  • Indigenous mental health and addictions theories, and approaches.
  • Anti-oppressive practice, Indigenous feminist philosophy, and critical race theory beneficial.
  • Diversity within Indigenous cultures, identities, and lived history.
  • Inter-generational impacts of residential school, and colonization on the individual and the family.
  • Ability to establish rewarding partnerships.
  • Women serving resources and supports in the Kamloops and surrounding areas.

*A combination of education, and significant experience and training will be considered.

OUR MUST HAVES THAT MAKE YOU GREAT: 

• Proficient in using Microsoft Office and case-management software for accurate documentation, data entry, and reporting, ensuring all records comply with privacy and confidentiality standards.
• Skilled in facilitating educational and support programs for groups, fostering participant engagement, group cohesion, and a safe, supportive environment.
• Provide brief, solution-oriented counselling that empowers clients to develop practical skills and strategies for addressing challenges.
• Capable of building trusting, collaborative relationships with clients, focusing on strengths and supporting resilience.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with community agencies to ensure clients have access to a comprehensive support network.
• Competent in managing crisis situations, employing de-escalation techniques, and responding calmly and non-judgmentally to challenging behaviors.
• Offer one-on-one support and guidance to clients, helping them on their journey toward personal growth and healing.
• Demonstrate understanding of diverse backgrounds, including the impacts of historical and systemic issues, with a culturally sensitive approach in all client interactions.
• Work effectively within a multidisciplinary team, contributing positively through support, information-sharing, and collaboration on case planning.
• Actively engage with community partners and stakeholders, representing the program professionally and fostering relationships to strengthen client support networks.
• Communicate clearly and compassionately with clients, team members, and partner agencies, advocating for client needs to ensure their voices are included in care planning.
• Strong organizational skills in coordinating meetings, managing scheduling, preparing agendas, and documenting follow-ups to ensure efficient communication and planning.
• Demonstrate resilience and adaptability in responding to the diverse and changing needs of clients, team members, and the community, with a proactive approach to challenges and solutions.

PRE- EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS: 

• Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Clearance.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.

TOTAL REWARDS:

• Compensation: $28.00 – $32.00 per hour, based on skill set and experience.
• Group benefits including extended health, dental, and vision
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off
• Wellness Days Off

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).

We thank all applicants for their interest in this position; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.