Cultural Practitioner FT

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.

Accommodations are available upon request at any stage in the selection process.

Be a part of a Transformative Team at the New Homelessness & Addictions Recovery Treatment (HART) Hub!

Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of those facing homelessness and addiction? Do you want to be at the forefront of a brand-new initiative that's set to revolutionize care and support for some of the most vulnerable individuals in our community? If so, we want YOU to be part of our innovative, compassionate, and dynamic team! We are partnering with NorWest Community Health Centres in opening the doors to a state-of-the-art treatment hub designed to provide comprehensive support and resources that address the root causes of homelessness and addiction. We are currently seeking a full-time permanent Cultural Practitioner to support the HART Hub.

CULTURAL PRACTITIONER (25-0000448)

Bargaining Unit: Health Care Professional
Status: Full Time
Department: Indigenous Health
Site: Varied
Location: Thunder Bay, ON
Shifts: Days/Evenings
Annual Salary: $76,323 - $99,001

Reporting to the Cultural Outreach Supervisor - Cultural Outreach Team, Nanaandawe'ewin (Traditional Healing Program), the Cultural Practitioner is responsible for delivering culturally competent, safe, people-centered care within the Cultural Outreach Program. In this role, they will offer traditional healing support to clients within the Cultural Outreach Team including cultural and clinical health-related services across St. Joseph's Care Group and collaborating with community partners. This care supports individuals facing complex challenges, such as mental health, homelessness, and addiction. Key responsibilities include incorporating Indigenous knowledge, ceremonies, and cultural practices to provide holistic care that is both culturally safe and tailored to the needs of the individuals served.


Qualifications:

Experience/Education:

• An individual who is of Indigenous ancestry with an in-depth understanding of Indigenous culture and tradition, worldview, history, ceremonies, and language
• Traditional knowledge acquired through direct experience with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and Traditional Healers
• Knowledge of traditional medicines, land-based learning, and Indigenous wellness practices
• Minimum of five years of experience in cultural programming, community outreach, or education
• Experience working within Indigenous-led organizations, social services, or health and wellness fields
• Experience providing cultural support to Indigenous Peoples living with and managing complex mental health, homelessness and substance use challenges
• A diploma in social services, Indigenous studies or a related field is preferred

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of Indigenous cultures, languages, traditions, and spiritual practices. Knowledge of Indigenous history, culture and worldview
• Experience facilitating ceremonies, traditional teachings, and cultural workshops
• Connections with local Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and Traditional Healers
• Ability to work with diverse Indigenous communities, including youth, families, and Elders
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a strong ability to engage in cross-cultural settings
• Understanding of historical and contemporary issues affecting Indigenous Peoples
• Thorough understanding of Harm Reduction principles and experience integrating specific cultural protocols that address addiction
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing
• Understand the importance of trauma informed practice through a cultural lens
• Ability to establish effective and collaborative working relationships with a variety of partners including community partners within the Indigenous community
• Strong time management and organizational skills
• Appreciation and respect of others cultural teachings and understanding and, working within a multi-faith setting
• Ability to work collaboratively within an inter-professional team environment
• Demonstrated computer proficiency including skills with MS Office applications
• Competent within the meaning of the Occupational Health and Safety Act
• Ability to speak Anishinaabemowin or Anishininimowin is preferred

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.
  
• Will be required to travel to various work locations, providing own transportation
  
• May be required to work flexible hours (extended hours, evening/weekend work)
  
Offers of employment made to external candidates are conditional upon providing proof of COVID-19 vaccination as per the SJCG Immunization Policy IMS-04-005 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
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  WHY WORK FOR US?
  
  SJCG cares about "Our People", and we know that a welcoming, caring, and supportive environment creates a positive work place that ensures employees are able to provide the best possible care to our clients.
  
  As a team member, you will be offered:
  
• Competitive and progressive salary and benefit packages
  
• Membership in the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)
  
• Relocation Assistance (some restrictions apply)
  
• Ongoing professional development and advanced education
  
• Employee wellness initiatives
  
• Opportunities to participate in research and teaching initiatives
  
• Tuition loan program
  
• Employee and family assistance program
  
• Employee recognition program
  
• Employee discount program
  
Employee referral program
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  ABOUT ST. JOSEPH'S CARE GROUP
  
  
  
• Combining tradition & innovation in responding to the unmet needs of the people of Northwestern Ontario since 1884.
  
• Offers a broad range of programs and services in Rehabilitative Care, Addictions & Mental Health, and Seniors' Health across 8 sites in the City of Thunder Bay.
  
• Over 2,400 staff and growing.
  
• Accredited with Exemplary Standing, the highest level awarded by Accreditation Canada.
  
• Designated by the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO) as the Best Practice Spotlight Organization.
  
• Uses technology to help overcome challenges to healthcare including the sheer size of Northwestern Ontario to bring care closer to the people we serve.
  
• Northwestern Ontario regional lead for Rehabilitative Care, Behavioural Supports and Palliative Care.
  
• Coupling research with mobilization, our Centre for Applied Health Research (CAHR) supports internal and external staff and clinicians through expertise, project consultation and knowledge translation.
  
• Continues to advance a self-management approach to care, and we are involving our clients more closely in their own care decisions to achieve the health outcomes that are important to them.