Lennon Adkins was hired in the summer of 2020 to help with the development, maintenance, and harvest of this years Community Garden. He has been hard at work alongside Peter and Renske, who have graciously dedicated a piece of their land for the establishment of this garden. Our Community Garden continues to be an incredible resource, providing fresh, organic produce that goes straight to our residents. There has already been roughly 500 lbs of food harvested and distributed to local residents and we are only half way through the season. Not only has the Community Garden contributed to our mission for increasing food security but also provides educational and employment opportunities to our local youth. Peter and Renske could not be better mentors and Lennon has proven to be an incredible young man, a very hard worker, and a wonderful student to work with.
This summer student position is funded by Service Canada through the Canada Summer Jobs program.
Cherryville Community Food and Resource Society (CCFRS) is looking to hire a full-time social worker. This position includes working directly with caregivers in the Cherryville and Lumby area offering one-on-one support, system navigation, education and knowledge translation, support groups and hosting 3-4 larger events per year devoted to caregivers.
Education, Training, and Experience:
Bachelor’s of Social Work degree
Minimum one-year related experience working with seniors, caregivers, or others in an outreach type role; or an equivalent combination of training and experience
Group work experience an asset
Must hold a current First Aid & CPR Certificate (available through CCFRS)
Satisfactory Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector
Must be at least 19 years of age
Must have a Valid Drivers Licence and Vehicle
Work Performed
Duties and Responsibilities for this position include:
One-on-One Support: includes providing emotional support, health care system navigation, knowledge and skill enhancement, connection to community services, and any other individualized support focused on caregivers. One-to-one support is provided through in-person meetings primarily via home visits, check-in calls, email, texts, or virtually.
Support Groups and Events: planning and facilitating various support groups (in-person/virtual) for caregivers living in Cherryville and Lumby. Planning 3-4 larger events in both Cherryville and Lumby throughout the year which may include educational workshops, luncheons, dinner with presenters, etc. to support caregivers in their role and to reduce caregiver strain and burnout.
System Navigation Support: Making referrals to other programs, resources, and services both in Cherryville and Lumby.
Working Collaboratively: Working as part of various teams, building relationships and liaising with community partners both in Cherryville and Lumby, making new connections with service providers in surrounding areas that support caregivers and their loved ones, working positively with CCFRS staff.
Evaluation and Reporting: must provide quarterly reports to Executive Director and maintain relevant statistics and data tracking. Encourage client feedback and quality impact surveys.
Fostering Safe Environments: embracing a non-judgemental approach and encouraging open and inclusiveness with program participants, families, community partners, and staff.
Adhering to CCFRS policy and procedures
Hours: This is a full-time position, 35 hours per week at $30/hour. Monday-Friday 8:00-3:30 (hours can be flexible as determined in accordance with Executive Director). Mileage reimbursement at $.65 per km.
Qualified applicants are invited to submit resume with at least two references by email to: Meghan Derkach, Executive Director at meghan.derkach@ccfrs.ca
Primary Place of Work: Cherryville Resource Center (158 North Fork Rd., Cherryville). Job activities are conducted in both Cherryville and Lumby area. Some remote work may be considered.
In 2016 we teamed up with Lake Country Food Bank and established the “Network of Sharing” in which we have connected nine different food banks that we can distribute food to when we receive large quantities of food. This reduces food waste entering our landfills, a national issue that has major environmental effects, as well as puts more food directly into the hands of community members, programs, activities, and events. Inspired by this partnership, we reached out to collaborate with Nakusp Food Bank who supports five rural communities between us. With safe transport of perishable items being the largest obstacle, we successfully sought and secured funding through Food Banks BC to purchase a refrigerated truck. We are now delivering fresh vegetables, fruits, breads, dairy products, and any other food/household goods we receive in excess that they are willing and able to accept. Extending this network of sharing concept into the Kootenay region has proven to be a positive impact for all communities involved as well as reducing the environmental impact of excessive waste entering our landfills. Our commitment to this social cause has resulted in this expansion of our food bank services, directly contributing to our mission of promoting healthy living and food security while reducing waste.
This program is funded by Interior Health through the Community Food Action Initiative grant.
