Residential Youth Care Worker

Bravelight Youth Services

Based on referrals from MCFD in the Fraser Cascades area (Chilliwack, Agassiz and Hope), Bravelight Youth Services provides short- and long-term placement services, including emergency shelter for youths ages 11 - 18.

Bravelight is looking to hire casual employees to work within all of their resources (Chilliwack, Agassiz and Hope).

Bravelight Youth Services Inc. has been providing outreach and residential placement services for youth in the care of the Ministry of Children and Family Development since 2011. We put an emphasis on providing a therapeutic culture within our homes and general programming framework. Our intention at BYS is to provide safe, secure, and supportive services for children and youth.

Job Duties

• Developing positive and supportive relationships with referred clients and other significant figures in the child/youth's life- Liaise with MCFD, other professionals, and health care providers involved with youth using collaborative practice.
• Additional Duties: Housekeeping activities, yard maintenance, food preparation, transportation, etc.
• Working with and mentoring children and youth who have been impacted by a family crisis.
• Assessing youth's relevant skill strengths and developmental needs
• Working with children and youth with many challenges including possible behavioural challenges.
• Advocate on behalf of clients when appropriate.
• Plan, implement and evaluate service plan goals- Identifying and utilize appropriate community resources and programs as part of a goal-oriented plan.
• Maintain accurate, confidential case notes.

Skills & Abilities

• Good organization, time, and general management skills.
• Ability to work effectively independently and with other staff, social workers, and other relevant service providers.
• Knowledge of human behaviour and adolescent development; sound knowledge of the pressures and opportunities of residential models; ability to teach and to consult effectively; knowledge of Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD), Fraser Valley Aboriginal Child Family Services Society (FVACFSS) and Bravelight Youth Services policies and standards respecting care of youth.
• Excellent verbal, non-verbal and written communication skills; excellent behaviour management skills, especially in relation to adolescents; demonstrated ability to work with people, especially in a supportive, consultive capacity – flexible in approach; demonstrated ability to use good judgment and maintain confidentiality.
• Knowledge of policies and procedures:
• Proficient teaching skills.

a.Bravelight Youth Services contracts

b.Bravelight policies, and procedures

c.MCFD & FVACFSS standards and policies, particularly Residential Standards

• Non-judgmental, positive, and respectful approach to house residents, co-workers, and other professionals.
• Computer skills
• Cultural competency.
• Ability to perform basic household duties, such as maintaining a budget, grocery shops, meal preparation, cleaning and ability to teach basic life skills (be able to lift and push 20+ pounds).

Additional Information

This position is required to work in, at times, a stressful environment, often dealing with clients in crisis situations. Issues are often related to physical and/or emotional abuse, and/or drug and alcohol abuse. Flexibility and the ability to manage emergency situations are ongoing expectations of this position. Program delivery activities may require a moderate level of physical fitness to effectively carry out duties of the position.

Qualifications

• Must be available to work in Hope, Agassiz, and Chilliwack.
• Two years of experience working with children and youth with behavioural challenges.
• Valid Class 5 Driver's License.
• Understanding of mental health, substance misuse, attachment and trauma informed practice.
• Two years of post-secondary education or training in child/youth care or a related field (Social Worker, Social Services, Psychology, Etc.).
• Reliable vehicle with 3 million liability and business insurance.
• Must pass Criminal record check (link will be provided by Bravelight).
• Employees need to be available to work weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
• Standard First Aid with CPR certificate.
• Must be available to work 24-hour shifts.
• Must pass MCFD HUB check.