Native Inmate Liaison Worker (NILO)

at  John Howard Society of Kawartha Lakes Haliburton

JHS Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton has provided programs addressing crime & its causes in our area for over 40 years. This includes diverse approaches to violence prevention, intervention, diversion, & response. We know that positive change doesn’t happen in a punitive or judgmental environment. We work from a trauma/ resilience informed, anti-oppressive, restorative lens. If this matches your work philosophy, then apply to join our team as the Native Inmate Liaison Officer. We offer a competitive salary, and a friendly work environment.

QUALIFICATIONS

· Strong boundaries to maintain the relationship between the institution and the agency.
· Completion of education or training and/or pertinent cultural experience.
· Superior crisis intervention and problem-solving skills.
· Ability to manage competing demands and assess changing priorities.
· Ability to work alone/independently with minimal supervision.
· Effective communication and collaboration skills.
· Knowledge and skill implementing Indigenous ceremonies and cultural programs.
· Recognition as a knowledge holder within their Indigenous community an asset.

· Provide support, assistance, and rehabilitative care to Indigenous clients through cultural counseling, follow-up services, and community resource information.
· Offer cultural and spiritual resources required for healing and wellness activities such as sweat lodge ceremonies, healing circles, smudging, and drumming, including engaging Elders and other resource people.
· Maintain an inventory and supply traditional ceremonial medicines. Oversee and maintain sacred garden on property of Central East Correctional Centre and oversee Indigenous clients maintaining the garden on site.
· Facilitate liaison services between Indigenous clients and the community to ensure access to resources for educational, employment, housing, health, and other identified needs.
· Plan, organize, and facilitate Indigenous Programs and activities regularly, providing an itinerary of events as requested by the institution.
· Maintain records including completing NILO Programming Intake forms, recording client contact information, and submitting monthly statistics.
· Attend and participate in meetings at the institution such as Staff meetings, Interdisciplinary Case Conferences, and others as requested.
· Interview all Indigenous clients upon admission to inform them of available programs and services.
· Develop, coordinate, and maintain regular cultural programs and activities focusing on positive personal growth.
· Prepare and submit regular reports and statistics pertaining to programs, activities, and clients to the Superintendent or designate and agency CEO as required.
· Provide offender counseling and assistance to Indigenous clients who wish to practice traditional ways and coordinate activities with Chaplain Services.