Temporary Indigenous Liason Specialist Canada Summer Jobs

Who We Are

For more than 130 years The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church each year we help more than 2 million people providing necessities such as food clothing and addition we support people experiencing unemployment addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission vision and values of hope service dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here.

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Job Description:

Position Purpose summary:

The Indigenous Liaison Specialist will work alongside the Okanagan Central Community Church & Ministires team in providing education and resource support and on successful development and implementation of a wide range of communications and engagement initiatives programs activities and tools to ensure the wellbeing of indigenous individuals within the ministry and community at large.

This a Fixed Term Contract Position.

Kindly review the eligibility criteria for the Canada Summer Jobs program using the link below before applying.

Summer Jobs Program requirements apply. Individuals who required employer-specific work authorization (e.g. international students on study permits) are not eligible under this program. Recent immigrants are eligible if they are Canadian Citizens or permanent position is funded through the Canada Summer Jobs program. Applicants must meet program eligibility requirements including age and legal status criteria.

Accountabilities:

Communication and Resource Development:

• Design co-develop facilitate and evaluate reconciliation-focused workshops story circles and training resources (e.g. TRC/UNDRIP learning kinship-based approaches) including piloting gathering feedback and refining for long-term use.
• Create tools and resources that support long-term community impact and cultural learning.
• Facilitate listening circles and relational engagement with Salvation Army leadership staff volunteers congregants and community partners.
• Coordinate with Elders and Knowledge Keepers to support cultural teachings and services.
• Provide Indigenous Awareness training and learning opportunities for staff volunteers congregants and the broader community.
• Provide strategic input and resources to leadership teams regarding reconciliation efforts including TRC Calls to Action and UNDRIP.

Community Networking and Partnerships:

• Build and strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities and organizations to support the wellbeing of Indigenous mission partners and community members.
• Assess and share culturally appropriate local resources relevant to the Okanagan territory.
• Design and support initiatives guided by Indigenous leadership that deepen engagement with truth reconciliation and treaty relationships.

Communication and Reporting

• Maintain accurate records statistical data and program documentation.
• Prepare and submit timely reports on program outcomes and impact as required by leadership and funders.
• Participate in regular accountability and check-in meetings with Salvation Army leadership.

Critical Relationship Management:

Internal: Participates in Management Team Meetings

External: Will liaise with external partners in the community including Indigenous organizations

Managerial responsibility:

• Corps Officer
• Direct reports for this position: None
• Relates to Director of Community Services
• Also relates to Territorial Indigenous Ministries Coordinator
• Manages relationships

Financial and Materials Management:

• Material responsibilities: promotional/awareness materials event materials laptop.
• Does not process any financial transactions with no budget responsibilities.
• The incumbent is involved in minor financial matters occasionally

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• The typical working location for this position is usually in an office setting at Okanagan Central Community Church & Ministries limited local travel may be required
• The incumbent will work under the following disagreeable conditions:
  • Exposure to drugs and alcohol
  • Work-related stress
  • Noise
  • Dealing with angry and abusive people
  • Odors
• The incumbent may be exposed to the risk of moderate injury or illness due to:
  • Exposure to toxic chemicals
  • Sharp Objects (i.e. needle sticks)
  • Other dangerous situations

The above responsibilities must be performed in keeping with The Salvation Armys Mission Vision and Values in a professional manner upholding our code of conduct.

education and experience Qualifications:

Education Qualifications and Certifications:

• Completion of a formal post-secondary/college/University program of three academic years in Indigenous Studies.
• A bachelors degree in Indigenous Studies or its equivalent will be considered as a strong asset.
• A working knowledge of the history of Indigenous people in our nation (specifically the Okanagan) including the 94 Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

• An understanding of the history of The Salvation Army among Indigenous peoples in Canada.
• First Aid/CPR certification.
• Bring- indigenous knowledge and relationships to meet and assess the needs of people.
• Alternative combination of education and traditional knowledge may be considered.

Experience and Skilled Knowledge Requirements:

• Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience working with Indigenous communities.
• Demonstrated in-depth working knowledge of applicable programs and services legislation and policies as well as issues with indigenous communities.
• Connected to their community and a proven knowledge and understanding of local indigenous cultures traditions and communication.
• Working knowledge of The Salvation Armys services in the Central Okanagan..
• Respect and understanding of The Salvation Army its mission culture and values.
• Preference will be given to an Indigenous person.
• Ability and willingness to undergo applicable screening and background checks successfully that are satisfactory to The Salvation Army in its sole discretion (i.e. The Salvation Army Abuse Registry) and provide an original copy of a Background Check screening.

Skills and Capabilities:

• Excellent oral written and interpersonal communication skills including facilitation skills
• Attention to detail problem solving and analytical skills.
• Strong sense of integrity and confidentiality with professional ethics and a balanced sense of fairness and flexibility.
• Proven success in working within diverse cross-functional teams focused on a common goal.
• Demonstrated teamwork skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work in stressful high-paced environments.
• Strong organization and administrative skills.

Compensation:

Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions internal equity and candidate experience skills and qualifications relevant to the role.

The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please email if you have a need for any accommodation and we will be pleased to discuss this with you.