Administrative Assistant (Sixties Scoop)

Part-Time, Limited Term contract ending 31 March 2025

FRAFCA is looking for an experienced and dedicated individual to provide Administrative assistance to our Counsellors in the Sixties Scoop Healing Program. This unique role requires someone with an understanding of the Sixties Scoop, Indigenous cultural knowledge, and a commitment to supporting healing and reconciliation. If you are passionate about making a meaningful impact within the community, we invite you to apply and join us in this important work.

Job posting date:       13 November 2024

Reports to:                 Housing Program Manager

Classification:             Part Time, Limited-term contract ending 31 July 2025

Wage:                         $ 25.00 – 28.00 per hour, 20 hours per week

Location:                     14727, 108th ave, Surrey, BC

Program Objective:

To provide culturally sensitive support, education, trauma-informed care, and healing for survivors and families affected by the Sixties Scoop, addressing intergenerational trauma through a blend of Indigenous knowledge and contemporary therapeutic techniques. 

Positions Overview:

The Administrative Assistant will provide essential administrative support for the successful implementation and operation of the Sixties Scoop Survivor Healing Program. This position requires an individual who is organized, culturally sensitive, and able to manage a variety of tasks while working within a trauma-informed framework. The role will ensure the smooth functioning of program activities, assist with scheduling, documentation, communication, and support for program staff and participants.

  Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  1. Administrative Support:
  • Assist in organizing and coordinating program workshops, support circles, and therapy sessions.
  • Schedule meetings, appointments, and group sessions for clinical and traditional counsellors, as well as program participants.
  • Prepare, distribute, and maintain program materials, including educational resources, participant handouts, and session notes.
  • Support the coordination of mindfulness and somatic therapy sessions, ensuring timely bookings and communication with clients and service providers.
  • Participant and Stakeholder Communication:
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for participants, answering inquiries and directing them to appropriate resources.
  • Maintain clear, empathetic, and culturally sensitive communication with survivors and families impacted by the Sixties Scoop, respecting confidentiality and cultural protocols.
  • Ensure that all program participants are informed of upcoming events, support circle schedules, and other relevant program activities.
  • Data Management and Reporting:
  • Maintain accurate records of participant attendance, program sessions, and feedback.
  • Assist in preparing reports for funding agencies and project stakeholders, ensuring compliance with grant requirements.
  • Track and document program expenditures, working closely with the Program Manager to ensure budget adherence.
  • Cultural Sensitivity and Safety:
  • Contribute to creating a safe and inclusive space for program participants, in alignment with the program’s commitment to cultural sensitivity and safety.
  • Ensure that all program documentation and materials reflect Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and healing practices, integrating both traditional and contemporary approaches.
  • Program Support:
  • Assist the clinical and traditional counsellors with logistics related to trauma-informed care sessions and group activities.
  • Help in the coordination of any community outreach activities or events related to the program.
  • Participate in regular team meetings to provide feedback and insights on program operations and participant needs.

Qualifications and Experience:

  • Education & Experience:
    • High school diploma or equivalent; additional education in office administration, social services, or Indigenous studies is an asset.
    • At least one year of experience in an administrative support role, preferably within a social service, non-profit, or Indigenous community-based setting.
    • Experience working with Indigenous communities and an understanding of culturally sensitive practices is highly preferred.
  • Skills & Abilities:
    • Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on cultural sensitivity.
    • Knowledge and understanding of trauma-informed care principles, and the ability to apply them in an administrative context.
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), email communication, and other office software.
    • Ability to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive information with respect and integrity.
    • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Working Conditions:

  • The position will involve regular office hours, with occasional evening or weekend work required to support program activities.
  • The role requires the ability to interact with survivors and families in a respectful, compassionate, and culturally aware manner.

Additional Requirements:

  • Criminal record check and vulnerable sector screening may be required.
  • Participation in cultural safety training and other professional development opportunities as offered by the program.

This position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of Indigenous community members who are both directly and indirectly affected by the 60’s scoop, fostering healing and resilience in the face of historical and ongoing trauma.

How to Apply:

We thank all the applicants, but only those applicants selected for interview will be contacted.

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Open until suitable candidate is found.

*Pursuant to S. 41 of the BC Human Rights code, preference may be given to Aboriginal Applicants.

We are committed to the National Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action. FRAFCA is engaged primarily in promoting or serving the interests of Indigenous peoples, FRAFCA prioritizes employment to Indigenous  peoples. Preference will be given to Indigenous applicants, unless that preference or employment would constitute a discriminatory practice under the Canadian Human Rights Act.