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.
In March, 2025 we received $15,000 from Food Banks Canada through the Emergency Food Action grant. With a 20% increase in Cherryville households in need of monthly hampers since 2022, our capacity to support the consistent demand has been difficult. This past January-March were particularly difficult months as we had significantly less food donations available over these months and our hamper quantity and quality were compromised. When our Food Bank Floor Manager was asked why there was such a decrease in available food donations over these months, he thoughtfully pondered the impact of the imposing tariffs on our food systems. Despite the unsettling economic and political climate this past year, we were incredibly blessed to be a recipient of the Emergency Food Action grant. Due to these funds to purchase food, we were able to replenish our much needed staple items including healthy perishable items from March-June which directly benefited our local families and households in need.
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.
