Elders Coordinator

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 General Manager at KAFS, the Elders Coordinator will support the Urban Indigenous Elders program which aims to promote physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being, healing, and cultural integrity of Elders in our community. The Elders Coordinator will provide the following services: Elders socials, elders cooking classes, elders appointments, outreach home visits, elders shopping, elders foot and health care needs, elders sewing and craft club, elders will achieve a healthy lifestyle, eating healthy, being active, nurturing spirit and social connections.

This role at KAFS requires a dedicated individual who is passionate about enriching the lives of our Elders and preserving cultural heritage within the Indigenous community. If you’re driven by a respect for Indigenous values and are committed to supporting Elders with integrity and care, we’d love to have you join our team!

A day in the Life – roles and responsibilities:

• Design, organize, and maintain a full calendar of culturally meaningful activities, events, and outings for Elders, ensuring both safety and accessibility.
• Arrange and provide weekly shopping trips for Elders to obtain essentials, such as food, medications, and other personal items.
• Develop and coordinate engaging Elder day trips, ensuring these are culturally enriching and responsive to their needs.
• Supply craft and sewing items for dedicated craft days, allowing Elders to engage in traditional and creative practices.
• Organize cooking classes led by our Nutritionist, focusing on traditional recipes, nutrition, and wellness for Elders.
• Coordinate monthly visits with a foot care nurse and other necessary health professionals to ensure Elders’ healthcare needs are met.
• Advocate for Elders, supporting their autonomy and empowering them to make choices that impact their lives and wellness.
• Conduct regular in-home and on-site visits, offering companionship, support, and care to Elders who may face isolation.
• Share and teach fundamental knowledge of cultural practices and ceremonies, helping Elders stay connected to their heritage.
• Develop and facilitate workshops and information sessions on traditional teachings and cultural knowledge sharing.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the needs of the Elders and the program.

Requirements – what you bring to KAFS:

• A strong background with demonstrated experience working with Indigenous Elders, communities, and organizations, including an understanding of local protocols and traditions.
• Familiarity with drumming and singing traditional Secwepemc songs or similar Indigenous cultural expressions is a strong asset.
• Extensive knowledge of Indigenous cultural traditions, spiritual practices, and protocols, particularly within the Secwepemc and surrounding Indigenous communities.

Our must haves that make you great:

• Proven ability in planning, scheduling, and executing programs and activities that meet the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of Elders.
• Strong skills in communication (oral and written), record-keeping, and report writing.
• Computer literacy to manage scheduling, documentation, and communication.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification.
• Compassionate, patient, and deeply respectful of the needs and privacy requirements of Elders.
• Strong interpersonal and listening skills to build rapport and trust with Elders and families.
• Proven organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Training and experience in delivering cultural education and Elder-specific programming.
• Class 4 driver’s license (or willingness to obtain) and access to a reliable vehicle for transporting Elders and program supplies.

Total Rewards:

• Compensation: $26.00 – $28.00 per hour
• 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).