Program: Indigenous Early Years
Status: Full-Time, Permanent (BCGEU Union)
Location:

  • Phil Bouvier Family Centre (VAHS Indigenous Early Years), 717 Princess Ave, Vancouver, BC
  • Co-located at a Neighbourhood House or Community Centre in Vancouver

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (some flexibility required)
Wage: $29.70/hour (starting) + benefits and pension
Wage subject to increase pending new BCGEU Collective Agreement

About Vancouver Aboriginal Health Society (VAHS)

Vancouver Aboriginal Health Society (VAHS) is a not-for-profit organization located in the Downtown Eastside community for over 30 years. VAHS programs are designed by and for urban Indigenous people to promote physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness.

Our services include a Primary Care Clinic, Dental Clinic, Cultural Programming with Elders and Knowledge Keepers, and Indigenous Early Years programs.

About the Role

The Indigenous Early Years (IEY) Child and Family Support Program is a family-centered program that works in partnership with parents and caregivers to support families with children.

The Family Support Worker (FSW) provides a range of supports including:

  • Peer support and advocacy
  • Parenting skill development
  • Life skills training
  • Connecting families to community-based resources and activities

This position is co-located within community settings and requires travel, including home visits. The role involves managing a dynamic caseload and may require occasional evening work.

Qualifications

  • Diploma in Human Services (or related field) with a minimum of two (2) years’ experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Minimum two (2) years’ experience working with Indigenous communities

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Strong understanding of Indigenous cultures, values, and community supports
  • Experience in assessment, supportive counselling, and advocacy
  • Ability to teach life skills (e.g., home management, budgeting, time management)
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills
  • Knowledge of early childhood development and community resources
  • Understanding of child welfare systems and Indigenous-specific issues
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Experience facilitating groups and working in community-based settings
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook)

Assets:

  • Knowledge of the Child, Family and Community Services Act
  • Experience with parenting programs (e.g., Nobody’s Perfect Parenting)
  • Valid BC Driver’s License and access to a reliable vehicle

What We Offer

  • Union position (BCGEU)
  • Comprehensive benefits and pension after three (3) months
  • Meaningful, community-driven work
  • Supportive and culturally grounded work environment

Equity Statement

VAHS strongly encourages applications from Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, Inuit) applicants, in alignment with Section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code.

We also encourage applications from individuals who identify as Black, people of colour, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.

Please self-identify in your cover letter if you feel comfortable doing so.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter (PDF format) to:
📧 [email protected]
Attention: Doreen Macfarlane, Director of Indigenous Early Years
Subject Line: Family Support Worker Application

Successful candidates will be required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check.

VAHS thanks all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.