After-Care Worker (Drug and Alcohol Addictions)

Reporting Relationship

The After-Care Worker (Drug and Alcohol Addictions) will report directly to the Mental Health and Addictions Supervisor.

Position Summary

The After‑Care Worker – Drug and Alcohol Addiction is a vital service position within the M’Chigeeng First Nation Health and Wellness Department, Child and Family Services Program. This position provides culturally responsive, trauma‑informed after‑care and support services to parents and youth who are at risk of, or involved with, child welfare services and who are affected by substance use.

The After‑Care Worker supports individuals and families throughout the continuum of care, including referral, intake, treatment participation, discharge planning, and post‑treatment follow‑up. The role emphasizes service coordination, advocacy, prevention, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles, personal well‑being, and family stability.

Essential Functions

Client Support and Case Management

• Work directly with parents and youth involved in or at risk of child welfare services to provide ongoing after‑care support related to drug and alcohol addiction.
• Obtain all required consents from parents and youth to coordinate services on their behalf.
• Support parents and youth in accessing drug and/or alcohol addiction treatment services, including referral, intake, treatment planning, participation, discharge planning, and implementation.
• Provide direct follow‑up support to parents and youth following discharge from treatment services to ensure discharge plans are implemented and completed.
• Provide weekly and/or bi‑weekly support to assist parents and youth in accessing appropriate support networks and services that promote healthy lifestyles and overall well‑being.

Service Coordination and Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with members of the Health and Wellness Department, Child and Family Services Program, and on‑ and off‑community service providers.
• Facilitate and complete referrals to internal and external services as required to meet the needs of parents and youth.
• Facilitate monthly case conferences with service providers involved with families to ensure coordinated service planning, implementation, and accountability.

Cultural and Community Support

• Support access to cultural services, supports, and activities for parents and youth when requested or identified as beneficial to healing and recovery.
• Coordinate, plan, and deliver primary and secondary prevention information sessions and workshops for the community related to drug and alcohol awareness and prevention.

Documentation and Reporting

• Utilize the Caseworks Case Management System for client documentation, service coordination, and program reporting.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential case notes, reports, and service data in accordance with program and organizational requirements.
• Complete bi‑weekly timesheets and travel claims as required.

Policy Compliance

• Adhere to all M’Chigeeng First Nation service, administrative, and financial policies and procedures.
• Maintain professional boundaries, ethical standards, and confidentiality at all times.

Qualifications and Requirements

Education and Experience

• Diploma or degree in Social Work, Addictions Counselling, Human Services, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of two (2) years’ experience working with individuals and families affected by substance use and/or child welfare involvement.
• Experience working within First Nation communities is a strong asset.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of substance use, addiction recovery, after‑care practices, and harm‑reduction approaches.
• Understanding of child welfare systems and the impacts of intergenerational trauma.
• Strong case management, advocacy, and service coordination skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team and with external service providers.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation and utilize electronic case management systems.

Cultural Competency

• Knowledge of Anishinaabe culture, values, and community‑based healing approaches, or a demonstrated willingness to learn.
• Commitment to culturally safe, trauma‑informed, and strengths‑based practice.

Additional Requirements

• Valid Ontario Class G driver’s licence and access to a reliable vehicle.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Check.
• Ability to work flexible hours as required to meet program and client needs.

Working Conditions

• Community‑based position with travel required for meetings, training, and client support.
• Exposure to sensitive and potentially distressing situations related to addiction and child welfare.

Commitment to Community

M’Chigeeng First Nation is committed to providing holistic, culturally grounded services that support the wellness of individuals, families, and the community. Preference may be given to qualified Indigenous applicants in accordance with organizational policies.

CRC/VSS Rationale:  M’Chigeeng First Nation and its agents are in a position of trust in services to band member children and/or vulnerable adults, so a safe and secure working environment is mandatory.  Applicants must provide a clear VSS Certificate, and the CRC must have a record clear and/or dated of any convictions relating to alcohol, drugs, assault, violence and theft.  The CRC and VSS must be current (30 days) and must be an Original.

If you are interested in this opportunity, applicants must submit cover letter, resume, with three current references with contact information (two work-related and one character reference) and copies of education certifications to:

After-Care Worker Drug and Alcohol Addictions
c/o Human Resources
M’Chigeeng First Nation, P.O. Box 333
M’CHIGEENG, ON P0P 1G0
Fax 705-377-4980 or email to:   employment@mchigeeng.ca