Family Support Worker (Regular Full-Time)

PLEA Community Services is currently seeking three (3) Regular Full-Time Family Support Workers for our Asante Centre team. The proposed start date for these positions is June 3, 2024. These positions require BCGEU membership.

The Family Support Worker gathers information on and assesses neurodevelopmental red flags. They develop and implement intervention plans within program guidelines. They provide referrals, support, guidance and problem solving to participants to address issues related to FASD and other neurodevelopmental concerns. They also provide skill building, emotional support and feedback to participants (including the client, their families and support networks).

Position Type: Regular Full-Time
Location: Maple Ridge, BC
Hours of Work: The usual hours of work in these positions are Monday to Friday with a flextime scheduling arrangement of 35 working hours per week, which includes days and evenings.

Minimum Requirements: a Bachelor’s degree in a related human / social service field, and one (1) year of recent related experience.

Who We Are:

PLEA is an accredited, not-for-profit, charitable community services agency that has operated throughout BC for more than 40 years. We deliver high quality, innovative services to children, youth, adults, and families facing significant challenges in their lives. PLEA is an ally in reconciliation. The organization is committed to providing culturally safe programs and continuing to work towards breaking down the barriers that cause harm to Indigenous people and communities.

What You Will Do: 

• Gather information relevant to the participant’s neurodevelopmental concerns, needs and risks by interviewing, observing behaviour, meeting with caregivers and service providers and using a variety of inventories, checklists and questionnaires. Assess the information gathered to identify participant problems, assessment and service needs. Develop and implement an intervention plan within program guidelines.
• Provide support, guidance and problem-solving to participants and to address issues related to neurodevelopment in an individual or group setting using techniques such as active listening, conflict resolution, basic group counselling techniques and psycho-educational group methods to resolve the identified problems, needs and risks.
• Participate in the development, modification and evaluation of participant service plans with the integrated case management team. Participate in integrated case management meetings on a regular basis to report participants’ activities and progress.
• Outline services provided by the program and/or organization. Provide information on and referral to other community service providers, resources and professionals as required.
• Provide neurodevelopmental skill building to participants on issues such as parent-child interaction, child development, strengths-based supports, and behaviour management.
• Provide emotional support and feedback to participants.
• Plan and conduct group educational sessions on topics related to FASD and neurodevelopment.
• Liaise with and/or promote the interests of participants with other community service providers, professionals and school personnel as required. Accompany participants to meetings and appointments as required.
• Maintain related records and statistics, and provide reports to the supervisor.
• Protect and uphold confidentiality.
• Perform other related duties as required.

What You Will Bring:

• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated proficiency in teaching others and an ability to work collaboratively with families/caregivers and networks that provide support to participants.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the demonstrated ability to build trusting and effective relationships with participants, families/caregivers, agency staff, and professionals.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, including the ability to multi-task and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Proficient problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, make sound decisions in high pressure situations and be accountable for results.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.
• Demonstrated ability to be sensitive and understanding of individuals’ social realities including issues of race, culture, religion, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, poverty and lifestyle.
• Demonstrated knowledge of issues and trends related to the program.
• Knowledge of community resources and approaches that promote the child and family’s strengths and resources in order to improve the functioning of the participant and family and foster a strength-based approach to the individual's development and alcohol-related diagnosis.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite and database systems.

PLEA Benefits and Perks:

• Eligibility to enroll in health/welfare benefits on the first day of the month following the completion of the probation period.
• Education and Training Fund*
• Physical Activity Fund*
• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP): confidential and voluntary counselling support services and wellness resources.
• Discounted Membership Fees for Club 16 Trevor Linden and She's Fit.
• Employee Recognition Program (i.e., long service awards). 
• Agency-Sponsored Social Events (i.e., summer barbecue, annual holiday party, and team days).
• Perkopolis Membership - exclusive managed discount, reward, and benefits programs.

*these benefits are available to employees who are eligible for PLEA's health and welfare benefits.

Additional Requirements:

• Satisfactory Criminal Record Clearance.
• Must possess a valid Occupational First Aid Level 1 Certificate or be willing to obtain one prior to hire.
• A valid Class 5 or 7N B.C. Driver's License, and suitable driver's abstract/claims history.
• Access to a personal vehicle for work-related travel. This position requires travel in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley.
• Documentation that the applicant is legally approved to work in Canada.

Please submit a resume and cover letter referencing the competition number 2024058FSW3. Closing date for Internal Applications: Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 4:30PM. If the position is not filled internally, it will remain open until filled.

Note: PLEA conducts primary source verification of applicant's credentials including education, training, work history, and licensure.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those shortlisted for an interview will be contacted.