Indigenous Health Associate - STAR team

Thunder Bay, ON

JOIN OUR TEAM AND HELP LEAD WITH CARE, COMPASSION AND COMMITMENT!

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting to the Supervisor - Cultural Outreach Team, Nanaandawe'ewin (Traditional Healing Program), the Indigenous Health Associate for the Specialized Treatment & Alternate Response (STAR) team works alongside service delivery partners from Superior North Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Community Paramedics and Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) - Thunder Bay branch, Crisis Response Worker to respond to community members in a mental health and/or addiction crisis. The Indigenous Health Associate will be situated at the local Superior North EMS station, and other co-locations (i.e. St.Joseph's Care Group Oliver Road site), and will help develop and improve access to culturally safe and appropriate care. Distinct roles include Cultural Support, Advocacy and Systems Navigation. This role ensures the physical, social, emotional and spiritual care needs of the client and family are assessed and addressed in accordance with the Medicine Wheel teachings.

This posting is for a newly created position within the organization.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

At St. Joseph's Care Group (SJCG), our diverse workforce strengthens our ability to provide culturally competent care and innovative solutions to the complex needs of our clients and communities. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, diverse race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, family status, religion, disability, and socioeconomic status, to help address under-representation and foster greater inclusivity and belonging at SJCG.

By promoting a culture of inclusion and mutual respect, we ensure that our values of care, compassion, and commitment are reflected in every aspect of our work. If you are passionate about making a difference in healthcare and are committed to upholding these values, we encourage you to apply and join us in our journey towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

St. Joseph's Care Group is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities in our job application and hiring process.

WHAT YOU BRING

Education/Experience:

• An individual who is of Indigenous ancestry with an in-depth understanding of Indigenous culture and tradition, worldview, history, ceremonies, and language
• Minimum Undergraduate degree in a related fi eld (e.g., Social Work, Nursing, Health, or a related discipline) with a minimum of three years of clinical work with in a community setting
• Current registration with a regulated body (i.e., Ontario College of Social Workers, Social Service Workers, College of Nurses of Ontario) preferred
• Understanding of the systemic barriers and issues facing Indigenous Peoples
• Knowledge and experience in establishing networks of support and accessing community resources and services
• Training and experience related to client care for people from Indigenous, addictions and mental health populations
• Understanding of the social determinants of health of Indigenous People and the social consequences and risk factors associated with client conditions (i.e. complex/chronic conditions, addictions, and mental health)
• Experience working with clients who may be in a mental health or addiction crisis
• Traditional knowledge acquired through direct experience with Elders and Traditional Healers

Skills/Abilities:

• Well versed in The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's final report (specifically the healthcare calls to action), the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, In Plain Sight: Addressing Indigenous -Specific Racism and Discrimination in Healthcare and adult learning principles and practices
• Demonstrates knowledge and commitment to the Health Ethics Guide developed by the Catholic Health Alliance of Canada (CHAC), First Nations principles of data ownership, control, access, and possession (OCAP), and Accreditation Canada/Health Standard Organization British Columbia Cultural Safety and Humility Standard
• Ability to communicate effectively and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of teams within the workplace, community and ministries/agencies
• Ability to assess and support clients through mental health and addiction crisis and provide case management services while promoting a safe, supportive environment.
• Good knowledge of community health and other health related social service resources
• Demonstrated skills and abilities for building and supporting a positive team environment
• Strong organizational, problem solving, and time management skills and attention to detail
• Ability to use independent judgment and maintain confidentiality of records, actions, and information
• Demonstrated computer proficiency including skills with Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and MS Office applications
• Knowledge of Indigenous ceremonies and traditional healing practices
• Knowledge of Indigenous history, culture and worldview
• Knowledge of Indigenous historic and intergenerational trauma experience/impacts of Indigenous clients while utilizing a trauma informed practice through a cultural lens
• Ability to speak Anishinaabemowin or Anishininimowin is preferred
• Competent within the meaning of the Occupational Health & Safety Act

Conditions of Employment:

• This position shall be conditional upon a satisfactory Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC) where indicated, to ensure the absence of relevant criminal convictions.
• Offers of employment made to external candidates are conditional upon providing proof of a complete primary series of Health Canada approved mRNA COVID-19 vaccine or proof of valid medical exemption, prior to the offered effective date. If proof of vaccination or valid medical exemption is not provided, the offer of employment is rescinded.
• Ability to travel to various work locations as required and provide own transportation
• May be required to work flexible hours (extended hours, evening/weekend work)

WHY JOIN ST. JOSEPH'S CARE GROUP

St. Joseph's Care Group (SJCG) offers a meaningful career for those seeking to make a difference in health care. As a leading provider of complex care, rehabilitation, long-term care, and mental health and addiction services, SJCG is recognized for its commitment to high-quality compassionate, and people-centred care.

Experience a rewarding career and lifestyle you’ll love at the heart of Thunder Bay! Here’s what awaits you when you join our team:

• Enjoy a Competitive, Forward-Thinking Compensation Package: We offer salaries and benefits that recognize your talent and dedication.
• Secure Your Future: Become a member of the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP) – our organization will contribute $1.26 for every $1 you invest in your pension, ensuring a strong, stable retirement for your future.
• Make Your Move Easier: We provide relocation assistance to help you settle in (some conditions apply).
• Thrive in a Supportive Team: Grow your career and make meaningful contributions alongside dedicated and passionate colleagues.
• Commitment to Diversity: We are proud to be an inclusive workplace that celebrates the unique backgrounds, perspectives, and talents of every team member.
• Advance Your Skills: Access ongoing professional development, advanced education, and a tuition loan program.
• Continuous Improvement: We foster a culture where every team member is empowered to identify opportunities for improvement and share ideas.
• Prioritize Your Wellbeing: Take advantage of comprehensive wellness initiatives and access to an Employee & Family Assistance Program.
• Shape the Future: Get involved in research and teaching initiatives that make a real difference.
• Be Recognized and Rewarded: Benefit from employee recognition, discount, and referral programs.
• Live Where Adventure Meets Opportunity: Nestled on the stunning shores of Lake Superior, Thunder Bay offers the perfect blend of vibrant city life and breathtaking outdoor escapes.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

All job postings will follow the requirements outlined in the applicable collective agreement or the Terms & Conditions of Employment. If the job is not filled through this process, the posting will remain on our external site until the position is successfully filled.

Applicants who are part of the bargaining unit will be given priority consideration as set out in the relevant collective agreement. It is the applicant's responsibility to clearly demonstrate that they have the skills required for the position they are applying for.