Group Facilitator (Regular Part-Time)

PLEA Community Services is currently seeking two (2) Regular Part-Time Group Facilitators for our Ridge Meadows Youth Services team located in Maple Ridge. There will be a youth participant group and an adult participant group. The proposed start date for these positions is as soon as possible. These positions require BCGEU membership.

The Group Facilitator promotes and delivers established Trans & Gender Exploring Groups by planning and conducting drop-in group sessions. Participants attending these sessions are between 14 and 24 years of age, and self-identify as 'trans', 'transgender', or "gender exploring'. Participants also may include their parents and/or caregivers.

Position Type: Regular Part-Time
Locations: Each shift will be located at either the Maple Ridge, Port Coquitlam, or New Westminster locations.
Hours of Work: The usual hours of work are different for each of these positions and are as follows:

• Youth Group Schedule: Six (6) evening shifts per month; two (2) Tuesdays and four (4) Wednesdays (5:00PM to 8:00PM)
• Adult Group Schedule: Six (6) evening shifts per month; two (2) Tuesdays and four (4) Wednesdays (4:30PM to 9:30PM)

Minimum Requirements: Certificate in a related human/social services field, and six (6) or more months 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: 

• Conduct group sessions to support skill acquisition and build on current skills in the areas of ‘trans’, ‘transgender’ or ‘gender exploring’ and other related topics.
• Plan group sessions in accordance with the program manual or guidelines and the participants’ skills and needs. Prepare for group sessions by reviewing program manuals and other related materials.
• Promote the program by performing duties such as distributing brochures and posters to the community and making presentations to community organizations.
• Ensure that the necessary facilities, equipment and materials are available for the sessions.
• Conduct evaluation and obtain participation feedback on group effectiveness, material presented and facilitation style. Report any difficulties to the supervisor.
• Maintain contact with participants between sessions to provide follow up support if necessary, such as reviewing program materials and participants’ needs.
• Maintain related records in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of community resources to provide program-related information to clients.
• Protect and uphold confidentiality.
• Perform other related duties as required.

What You Will Bring:

• Excellent interpersonal communication, facilitation, and conflict management skills.
• Demonstrated proficiency in teaching others, including presenting sensitive topics to youth, parents/caregivers.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with others, including the ability to connect with youth and work collaboratively with parents, partners and stakeholders who provide support to youth.
• Demonstrated ability to support youth and parents/caregivers who may be reluctant to engage.
• Ability to facilitate and work through difficult group dynamics effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, make sound decisions and be held accountable for results.
• Effective organization, time, and general management 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 local clinical access and options for transgender and/or gender diverse communities.
• Knowledge of theory, principles, and best practices with respect to providing services to the transgender community.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite and database systems.

PLEA Benefits and Perks:

• 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.

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.
• Documentation that the applicant is legally approved to work in Canada.

Please submit a resume and cover letter referencing the competition number 2024038GF2. Closing date for Internal Applications: Monday, March 11, 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. The employer has submitted an application to the British Columbia Human Rights Tribunal for a BFOR (Bona Fide Occupational Requirement) to give preference to candidates with lived experience and who self-identify as 'trans', 'transgender' or 'gender exploring'.