Indigenous Cultural Liaison – Nanaimo Correctional Center (NCC)

Job type: Part-time, Permanent 

Company: John Howard Society of Victoria 

Location: In person, 3945 Biggs Road, Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 5N3 

Work hours: Tasks for this position are completed during a 21-hour workweek at Nanaimo Correctional Centre, however, some flexibility will be required according to the needs of the program and or John Howard Society of Victoria. 

Salary: $34-36 per hour 

Benefits: Employee Engagement Activities, Organization Events, Dental care, Disability insurance,  Extended health care, Life insurance, Paid time off, Employee assistance program 

About the organization: 

The John Howard Society of Victoria is a growing, dynamic and innovative social service organization that strives to create safe, healthy, and inclusive communities for all. Our goal is to help individuals achieve greater independence by providing support with housing, life-skills, education, employment, and community-based services.  

At John Howard Society of Victoria, we come from various backgrounds and share a common goal of wanting to make things better in our community, for our community. We believe in creating a dynamic work environment that adapts to your needs. 

What We Offer: 

Our Vision, Mission, Goals, and Values 

We are seeking a passionate and resilient Indigenous Cultural Services Coordinator to join our team in a fast growing and dynamic environment. This role is pivotal in enhancing the cultural services provided to Indigenous residents, promoting healing, community engagement, and reconciliation at NCC. If you have a passion for cultural connection and a commitment to supporting Indigenous communities, we want to hear from you! 

About the Role: 

The Indigenous Cultural Liaison (ICL) provides the Indigenous lens and consults with staff and Indigenous residents at Nanaimo Correctional Centre (NCC) to provide/connect residents with a range of Indigenous specific supports. Using a culturally informed model that is rooted in harm reduction, the ICL walks alongside residents in their self-identified and self-determined goals for culture, connection/reconnection, and community integration; while advocating for access, rights, and Cultural Safety as needed. 

Responsibilities: 

Organization 

• Identify, develop, and deliver Cultural Services that meet the needs of indigenous residents within the operational objectives of NCC. Cultural activities can include art, carving, sewing, beading, drumming, singing, healing circles, smudging, cedar brushing, or other ceremonies as approved by NCC. 

• Build a partnership with leadership and staff at NCC and incorporate Indigenous activities and services into agendas, committees, and meetings to support reconciliation 

• Provide spiritual leadership and counseling to individuals or groups of indigenous residents 

• Provide a link between Indigenous residents and Elders for spiritual support 

• Meet with Indigenous residents as requested by Correctional staff or the residents themselves to assist in the development of viable release plans 

• Provide counselling for Indigenous residents specifically related to spirituality and life skills  

• Meet regularly with the Indigenous population within NCC, utilizing appropriate resources to provide guidance and instruction 

• Promotes improving outcomes for our Indigenous residents and community and inspires NCC staff to participate 

• Support residents with case management and release planning supports 

• Other duties and projects as required and not limited to the responsibilities as mentioned 

Community Engagement 

• Liaise with corrections staff in identifying and referring Indigenous residents to appropriate program(s) 

• Plan and deliver cultural awareness activities that promote Indigenous cultural heritage and involve residents in traditional ceremonies; including, Talking Circles, Smudge, Pipe and Sweat Ceremonies 

• Provide cultural information sessions to NCC staff 

• Support relationships and connections to the local First Nations and Metis communities, families, and Indigenous Service Delivery agencies in support of reintegration into the communities. 

Qualifications: 

• Post-Secondary Diploma in Social Services or another relevant diploma  

• Two years of recent, related work experience or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience 

• Knowledge of legislation and regulations related to Indigenous persons, including residential schools, the 60’s scoop, child and family welfare system, knowledge of indigenous cultures, services, ways of holism and recovery 

• Current First Aid and CPR certification; Naloxone Certification 

• Must provide a clear Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Check 

• Working knowledge of cultural, policies, and procedures of indigenous governments as it relates to health and well-being services 

Skills and Abilities: 

• Indigenous North American ancestry/identity is a bona fide occupational requirement for this position 

• Knowledge of Lelum practices and protocols 

• Excellent liaison, networking, and advocacy skills 

• Strong written and oral communication skills 

• Ability to establish workload priorities, create and review schedule of activities with leadership, adjust to new or unexpected events (dynamic environments), problem solve, and deal effectively with conflict situations 

• Well-developed listening skills with the ability to empathize and establish rapport with residents 

• Proven community development/networking skills 

• Fostering awareness and understanding of the cultural context of trauma related addiction/MH among Indigenous community members – work to create paths to holism 

• Excellent organizational, time management, and administration management skills  

• MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)  

• Must have a reliable vehicle  

• We require a criminal records and vulnerable sector check 

Competencies: 

• Cultural Awareness 

  • Deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and histories 

  • Ability to navigate and respect the cultural context of trauma and recovery 

•  Communication Skills 

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills 

  • Ability to convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences 

• Advocacy and Liaison Skills 

  • Proficient in networking and building relationships with Indigenous communities and organizations 

  • Ability to advocate effectively for the needs and rights of Indigenous residents 

• Counseling and Support Skills 

  • Experience in providing spiritual and emotional support to individuals and groups 

  • Ability to guide residents in their self-identified goals for cultural connection and community integration 

• Organizational Skills 

  • Excellent time management and administrative skills 

  • Ability to prioritize tasks and adapt to changing environments 

• Problem-Solving Skills 

  • Strong analytical skills to assess situations and develop effective solutions 

  • Ability to handle conflict and facilitate resolution among residents and staff 

• Community Engagement 

  • Proven experience in community development and engagement activities 

  • Ability to plan and deliver cultural awareness programs and ceremonies 

• Knowledge of Legislation 

  • Familiarity with laws and regulations affecting Indigenous peoples, including historical contexts 

Personal Characteristics: 

• Empathy: Ability to understand and share the feelings of others, fostering trust and rapport with residents 

• Integrity: Commitment to ethical practices, respect for confidentiality, and accountability in all interactions 

• Flexibility: Willingness to adapt to changing circumstances and respond to the needs of the program and residents 

• Passion for Community Service: Genuine dedication to improving the lives of Indigenous individuals and communities 

• Cultural Sensitivity: Awareness and respect for the diverse backgrounds and experiences of Indigenous residents 

• Resilience: Ability to remain composed and positive in challenging situations, demonstrating perseverance 

• Team Player: Collaborative mindset, willing to work alongside staff and community members to achieve common goals 

Diversity and Inclusion at JHS Victoria: 

At the John Howard Society of Victoria, we proudly embrace the rich diversity of the communities we serve, and we’re excited to invite applicants from all backgrounds to join our team! We warmly welcome candidates who are racialized persons or persons of color, Indigenous Peoples, women, individuals with disabilities, those who identify as 2SLGBTQ+, and anyone who brings unique perspectives and ideas to the table. 

We understand that everyone’s journey is different, and we are committed to providing the support needed to ensure equal opportunities for success throughout the hiring process. If you require any accommodations during your interview, please don’t hesitate to let us know. We’re here to help! 

How to Apply:  

If you’re passionate about making a positive impact in people’s lives and meet the qualifications for this role, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your application through our portal. We’ll be reviewing applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled, so don’t wait—apply today and take the next step in your journey with us!  

Only applicants who identify as indigenous (First Nations, Native American, Metis, Inuit) will be considered for this position.