Unlimited Potential Community Services empowers individuals and families to reach their full potential and enhance community well-being.
FULL-TIME FOSTER PARENT - Central and Edmonton Region
Unlimited Potential Community Services (UP) is a non-profit charitable society that has been providing quality support and treatment since 1987. Our goal is to restore stability and hope in the lives of children, youth, adults, and families so they can achieve personal independence and family unity. UP believes cultural tradition is an important part of the healing process and we incorporate the culture and traditions of the individuals we support wherever possible. UP invites applicants who are passionate about providing quality support to our children, youth and families through a culturally sensitive approach.
Program Overview: Children First is the UP Community Services foster care program. We provide a safe, temporary out-of-home placement for children with nowhere else to turn. Children are matched with skilled caregivers who offer a family-based environment to nurture each child and stabilize behaviors until they return home. We provide in-home support to approved foster parents in Central Alberta, such as Camrose, Wetaskiwin, Ponoka, Lacombe and Red Deer, in addition to Edmonton and surrounding communities.
Position Overview: The care of Foster Children is to be provided in your own home 24hrs a day, an ideal candidate(s) are either an individual or couple looking to have a positive and lasting impact on children and their families. Foster Parents’ primary objectives are to provide care for in need child(ren) in a – family home who may otherwise be placed in a more structured programs, follow legislative, agency-mandated policies and procedures involved in the care of foster children, and participating fully in the family reunification process, if appropriate. Working with our Indigenous Resources team, our Foster Parents help those we serve by uncovering strength, hope, healing and creating new possibilities for a brighter future. As well as providing a broad array of strength-based and family-centred services that strive to preserve, reunify and build stronger families who care for their children and contribute meaningfully to their community.
The Ideal Candidate will possess:
- Knowledge and understanding of Indigenous culture, customs and beliefs and a commitment to learn;
- A desire to serve their community and connect with individuals needing support with a compassionate and empathetic approach;
- Good verbal and written communication skills, and the ability to effectively communicate with and relate to people of all ages;
- Eagerness to learn and carry out the Mission and Values of UPCS;
- Good understanding of current and emerging issues of importance to Indigenous people and communities;
- Experience in working with Indigenous children, families and communities in a supportive and culturally respected manner;
- Good understanding of health issues affecting youth and adults, such as FASD, drug and alcohol addictions, intergenerational trauma, mental health, suicide and other mental and behavioural issues.
Qualifications/Experience: The successful candidate must have a current and valid Standard First Aid / CPR (Level C) certificate or willing to obtain it. Experience working with vulnerable children and families, or the willingness and ability to develop your knowledge and skills, is required. As well, you must be willing to provide day-to-day care for child(ren)/youth, attend meetings, have Service Teams in your home and respond to a crisis.
Other Requirements: Foster parents must complete a comprehensive screening/selection process, including a current, clear Police Information Check (vulnerable sector included) and Child Intervention Record Check, both dated within the last 6 months, as well as a home study (SAFE Assessment) with their family, a valid AB driver’s licence (minimum class 5), current driver's abstract (no more than 8-demerits) and a reliable vehicle with adequate and current insurance.
Salary & Benefits: A tax-free per diem, pre-service training, 24/ 7 on-call support, a team environment and ongoing professional development opportunities.
Closing Date: Open until suitable candidates are found.
Our values are integrity, respect, excellence, humility and relationships. If you meet the entrance criteria, hold similar values and are looking to join a dynamic team that works diligently to empower and support children, youth and families, please submit your Resume and Cover Letter to the email attached or call 780-699-7379.
UP is an equal opportunity organization and is committed to building a safe, inclusive environment for people of all cultures and backgrounds; all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those applicants under consideration will be contacted.
Job Type: Full-time
Experience:
- Youth Care: 1 year (required)
Language:
Work Location: In person
