Chief Kinosew Awasak Mikiwahp (Driftpile Children’s Lodge)·Alberta
The Practice Specialist assesses the needs of children and families to create case plans focused on preservation and protection. They coordinate support services and provide expert guidance on complex cases to promote positive outcomes and family stability.
Social Worker- Intensive Services Practice Specialist - Chief Kinosew Awasak Mikiwahp (CKAM)
What is Chief Kinsosew Awasak Mikiwahp (CKAM)?
Chief Kinosew Awasak Mikwahp (CKAM) Child and Family Services Program of Driftpile Cree Nation. We are committed to nurturing strong, resilient families through holistic, culturally grounded services that empower children, youth, and families. “Family is at the heart of Driftpile Cree Nation. We embrace and endorse our journey to implementing Mihtatakaw Sîpiy Awasak Wiyasiwêwin and asserting our inherent rights respecting our children, youth, and families in a profound way.” — Chief Dwayne Laboucan, Driftpile Cree Nation .
Keeping families together through culturally grounded family preservation services Supporting young adults as they transition to independence Advocating for children’s rights and protecting their well-being Asserting jurisdiction over child and family services in alignment with our traditions and laws
Our organization is routed in culture, community and family and we value our employees.
We offer a competitive wage and benefit package with a substantial Wellness Incentive Fund.
Advance your career and grow professionally.
Benefit from generous paid time off and scheduled holiday closures.
Opportunities to engage in cultural, community, and family activities such as Traditional cooking classes, cultural crafting, Holiday events throughout the year.
With CKAM’s proximity to Driftpile, you can experience rural living, where meaningful connections flourish and your life will have space for intention.
Departments
Supports or identify supports within Edmonton and Southern Alberta for children, youth, and families to build capacity within the family unit. Through programming at CKAM office, other community agencies and Driftpile Cree Nation cultural practices. The incumbent works closely with the FCSW to establish or enhance existing relationships and partnerships with community resources and/or CKAM staff in Driftpile, in order to provide services to children and their families.
Community and culturally led supports to children, youth, and families. Within this program, the Family Preservation team and families develop and manages case plans through circle process. Also assist with coordinating supportive services within community with the aim to preserve family units, with Elders, family, culture and community services. With a collaborative focus on building capacity and help develop new service options to improve outcomes.
Assists in ensuring safety and well-being for children and youth, enhancing parental capacity, family functioning, and wellness. They will assess if intervention is needed based on Strength and Needs Assessment; however, work with the Preservation department to ensure proactive measures are in place to maintain the family unit.
As a Practice Specialist, you’ll play a vital role in supporting children, youth, and families.
You’ll assess needs, create case plans, and coordinate family support services with a focus on preservation and protection, helping children stay safely with their families whenever possible.
In this role, you’ll collaborate with families, service teams, and community partners to design and implement plans that promote permanency and positive outcomes.
You’ll also provide expert consulting, training, and guidance on complex cases, and contribute to innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of children, families, and communities.
Your work will reflect the vision, mission, and core values of the CKAM Program, ensuring every service delivered makes a meaningful impact.
Community Collaboration Build and maintain strong relationships with community partners and service providers. Support initiatives that prevent child intervention and strengthen family resilience. Provide consultation, training, and participate in professional development to enhance best practices.
Social Work Diploma with 3-5 years experience or equivalency; however, will consider new graduates. Knowledge of issues and practices of CKAM and the impact on children and families; services to children, family dynamics and an understanding of the sensitive situation’s families experience; Experience in the development and participation of case planning with children and families; Valid Class 5 Driver’s License and clean drivers abstract; Fluency in Cree is an asset; and Police Information Check (Vulnerable Sector), Intervention Record Check, and Drivers Abstract will be required upon interview. Please submit your application here: Careers – CKAM
Requires a Social Work Diploma with 3-5 years of experience, though new graduates may be considered. Candidates must possess a valid Class 5 Driver's License and pass several background checks, including a Vulnerable Sector Police Information Check.
Market context
Behavioral-health roles in Alberta are often driven by ongoing demand for support workers who can assist clients in community and residential settings. This type of position is competitive because employers commonly look for relevant postsecondary training, a valid Class 5 driver’s license, reliable transportation, and comfort with aquatic activities and pets. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit and save time on original job-description research.
