Healing starts with believing

here for all genders and all ages throughout Southwestern Alberta 403-694-1094 1 (844) 576-2512 502 - 740 4 Ave S

#IBelieveYou

#UHavethePower

Sexual assault is a criminal act

It is not your fault

Connect with Chinook Sexual Assault Centre

The Chinook Sexual Assault Centre acknowledges that we live and work on the traditional, unceded lands and travelling routes of the Piikani, Kainai, and Siksika Nations; and the Metis people living and working in Blackfoot Territory.

What We Offer

Advocacy

Crisis Support

Counselling

Education and Professional Development

System Navigation, Police and Court Support

Peer Support Groups

Who Do You Tell

Generalized Support

Chinook Child Advocacy Centre

A Program of the Chinook Sexual Assault Centre

The Chinook Child Advocacy Centre is dedicated to giving children and youth who have experience sexual, emotional, and/or physical abuse or severe neglect, a safe space to share their story and receive the support and resources they need throughout the entire disclosure, investigation, and judicial process. Our blended approach brings together a multidisciplinary team of community partners including Alberta Health Services, Blood Tribe Children’s Services, Blood Tribe Police Services, Lethbridge Police Services, Piikani Child and Family Services, RCMP, and South Region Children’s Services, to offer unified services that provide the right support at the right time in a welcoming, child-friendly, safe environment.

Duty to Report

Anyone who has grounds to believe a child is being abused or neglected has an obligation to report.

Recognizing Abuse

Children who have been abused are more likely to have adverse physical and mental health issues later in life

Recognizing Sextortion

Sextortion occurs when an offender threatens to share sexual images or videos of a child or youth to coerce them ...

The CCSA needs your support

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

Sexual violence is NOT a woman’s issue – it is an issue for all of us!

try our quiz

Sexual violence is an issue for all of us

It has taken amazing strength to survive an act of sexual violence. Know you are believed and that your courage inspires us. Your assault will not define you! We cannot change what happened to you, but as stated by CS Lewis “you can start where you are and change the ending.”

NEWS
Sexual violence is NOT a woman’s issue – it is an issue for all of us!

Give Support. Give Hope

Our services now include a developing Child Advocacy Centre which is devoted to giving children and youth who have experienced sexual, emotion, physical ...

Sexual assault centre's crisis calls on the rise during pandemic

CALGARY -- Alberta COVID-19 cases are steadily climbing and much the same can be said about Lethbridge's Chinook Sexual Assault ...

Sexual Violence Awareness Month

Every May, the Province of Alberta commits to a call to action to end sexual violence in our communities. Join ...

Career and Volunteer Opportunities

Career Opportunities

POSITION: Specialized Sexual Assault Justice Advocate
PROGRAM: Chinook Sexual Assault Centre
NUMBER OF POSITIONS: 2
TERM: Full Time, 1 Year Term (37.5 hours a week)
SALARY: $24.00 per hour
START DATE: January 2, 2025
CLOSING DATE: November 18, 2024

Position Summary

Reporting to the Program Supervisor, the Specialized Sexual Assault Justice Advocate is a crucial front-line position at our sexual assault centre, responsible for providing comprehensive legal support to survivors of sexual violence and conducting community education initiatives. This role combines victim advocacy, legal guidance, and public education to empower survivors and promote awareness of sexual violence issues.

Key Responsibilities

Legal Support and Advocacy

Provide trauma-informed information, support, and advocacy to survivors of sexual violence throughout their engagement with the legal system
Assist survivors in exploring and understanding their legal options, including protective orders, criminal justice processes, and civil litigation
Accompany and support survivors to police interviews, orientation to court proceedings, and other legal appointments as needed
Liaise with law enforcement, prosecutors, and other legal professionals to ensure survivors' rights and interests are protected

Case Management

Conduct thorough needs assessments with clients to identify risks, strengths, and goals
Develop individualized case plans in collaboration with clients based on their needs and goals
Provide referrals to appropriate community resources and support services
Maintain comprehensive and confidential client records

Emotional Support and Crisis Intervention

Offer emotional support and crisis intervention
Provide psychoeducation about trauma, coping strategies, and the healing process
Facilitate support groups

Community Education and Outreach

Work collaboratively with the Education Coordinators
Develop and deliver public education programs on sexual violence, consent, and legal rights
Conduct training sessions for professionals in various sectors (e.g., healthcare, education, law enforcement) on responding to sexual violence
Organize and participate in community awareness events and campaigns
Develop educational materials and resources on legal rights for survivors and the general public

Collaboration and Networking

Build and maintain strong relationships with community partners, including legal services, law enforcement agencies, and other support organizations
Participate in multi-disciplinary case management meetings and community coalitions addressing sexual violence

Required Skills

Soft Skills

Compassionate and empathetic approach to working with survivors of sexual violence
Strong commitment to social justice and ending sexual violence
Ability to work independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team
Excellent organizational and time management skills
Resilience and ability to manage secondary trauma
Strong commitment to child rights and child protection
Ability to remain calm and effective in high-stress situations
Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse family structures and backgrounds
Knowledge of community resources and how to access

Technical Skills

Competence in use of Microsoft suite, use of iPads
Competence in use of client data bases
Attention and protection of data and technology assets

Specialized Skills

Excellent communication skills – both written and oral
Excellent translation of trauma informed practice
Understanding of adverse childhood experiences
Ability to work with children, youth, adults and families
Excellent rapport building skills
Strong advocacy skills
Practical knowledge of justice system, child protection services and victim rights

Requirements

Vulnerable Persons Check
Children Services Check
Commitment to continuous learning and staying informed/updated or best practices in the field
Commitment to use of radical candor in their communications with colleagues
Willingness to travel for meetings
Flexibility to work some evenings and weekends as required for community events and program activities
Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
First Aid Certificate and CPR Certification
CPI Certification
Brain Story Certification

Qualifications

Degree/diploma in the field of Social Work/Criminal Justice plus 1-year related experience working with individuals impacted by sexual violence or in a related field.
Combination of post-secondary courses and experience may be considered (pursuant to Minimum Recruitment Standards).
Strong knowledge of laws pertaining to sexual assault and victims' rights
Experience in public speaking and delivering educational presentations
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work with diverse populations
Demonstrated ability to maintain professional boundaries and handle sensitive information with discretion
Proficiency in trauma-informed care approaches and crisis intervention techniques

We strive to build a team that reflects the diversity of the community we work in and encourage applications from traditionally underrepresented groups such as women, members of racialized or visible minority communities, Indigenous peoples, people identifying as 2SLGBTQ+, and people with disabilities. If we can make this easier through accommodation in the recruitment process, please contact us at admin@csacleth.ca

Security Check

The successful candidate will require an enhanced security check.

How to Apply

If you feel that you are qualified for this position, please submit your resume to:

Attn: CEO

Email: admin@csacleth.ca

POSITION: Child and Family Advocate
PROGRAM: Chinook Child and Youth Advocacy Centre
NUMBER OF POSITIONS: 2
TERM: Full Time Permanent (37.5 hours a week)
SALARY: $24.00 per hour
START DATE: January 2, 2025
CLOSING DATE: November 18, 2024

Position Summary
Working in the Chinook Child and Youth Advocacy Centre and reporting to the Program Supervisor, the Child and Family Advocate is integral to creating a safe and supportive environment, assisting families throughout the investigative, judicial, and therapeutic processes, and coordinating services to ensure seamless, trauma-informed care. The Advocate will work closely with multidisciplinary team (MDT) partners, including law enforcement, child protection, mental health, and medical professionals, to provide a coordinated response that prioritizes the well-being and resilience of the children and families served.

Key Responsibilities
Advocacy and Support

Provide trauma-informed advocacy and support to children, youth, and their families throughout their involvement with the CYAC and justice system
Accompany children and families to interviews, medical examinations, court proceedings, and other appointments as needed
Explain legal processes, victims' rights, and available services in age-appropriate and accessible language
Advocate for the best interests of children and youth within multidisciplinary team meetings and case reviews

Case Management

Conduct needs assessments to identify immediate and long-term support requirements for children and families
Develop and implement individualized support plans in collaboration with families and other professionals
Provide referrals to appropriate community resources, including mental health services, medical care, and social support programs
Maintain accurate and confidential case records, documenting all interactions and interventions

Emotional Support and Crisis Intervention

Offer emotional support and crisis intervention to children and families throughout their engagement with the CYAC
Provide psychoeducation about trauma, coping strategies, and the healing process
Facilitate support groups for non-offending caregivers and siblings when appropriate

Collaboration and Coordination

Work closely with multidisciplinary team members, including law enforcement, child protection services, medical professionals, and mental health providers
Participate in case review meetings and contribute to coordinated service delivery
Liaise with schools, community organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure comprehensive support for children and families

Education and Outreach

Conduct presentations and training sessions for community partners on child abuse prevention, trauma-informed care, and the CYAC model
Develop educational materials for children, families, and professionals on child rights, the justice system, and available support services
Participate in community awareness events and initiatives related to child protection and advocacy

Required Skills
Soft Skills

Compassionate and empathetic approach to working with children and families affected by trauma
Strong commitment to child rights and child protection
Ability to remain calm and effective in high-stress situations
Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse family structures and backgrounds
Resilience and ability to identify and manage secondary trauma
Knowledge of community resources and how to access

Technological Skills

Competence in use of Microsoft suite, use of iPads
Competence in use of client data bases
Attention and protection of data and technology assets

Specialized Skills

Excellent communication skills – both written and oral
Excellent translation of trauma informed practice
Understanding of adverse childhood experiences
Ability to work with children, youth and families
Excellent rapport building skills
Strong advocacy skills
Practical knowledge of justice system, child protection services and victim rights

Requirements

Vulnerable Persons Check
Children Services Check
Commitment to continuous learning and staying informed/updated or best practices in the field
Commitment to use of radical candor in their communications with colleagues
Willingness to travel for meetings
Flexibility to work some evenings and weekends as required for community events and program activities
Valid driver's license and clean driving record
First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain)
CPI Certification
Brain Story Certification

Qualifications

Degree/diploma in the field of Social Work/Social Sciences plus 2 years related experience.
Combination of post-secondary courses and experience may be considered (pursuant to Minimum Recruitment Standards).
Possess a solid understanding and practice in trauma informed care.
Experience in crisis intervention and case management
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work with diverse populations
Demonstrated ability to maintain professional boundaries and handle sensitive information with discretion
Experience working in the criminal justice system, court procedure and processes, and Victim Services is considered an asset.

Travel is a requirement of this position. The successful candidate must have access to a road safe vehicle, possess and maintain a valid Class 5 Driver's license, and have proper insurance coverage to meet industry standard.

We strive to build a team that reflects the diversity of the community we work in and encourage applications from traditionally underrepresented groups such as women, members of racialized or visible minority communities, Indigenous peoples, people identifying as 2SLGBTQ+, and people with disabilities. If we can make this easier through accommodation in the recruitment process, please contact us at admin@csacleth.ca

Security Check
The successful candidate will require an enhanced security check.

How to Apply
If you feel that you are qualified for this position, please submit your resume to:
Cheryl Patterson, Chinook Child And Youth Advocacy Centre Manager
Email: cheryl@csacleth.ca

We thank you for your interest in the position, but only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Volunteer Opportunities

Currently there are no volunteer opportunities. Stay tuned . . .

Leadership of the CSAC

Vision:

To end sexual violence in Southwestern Alberta.

Mission:

Chinook Sexual Assault Centre (CSAC) is a stand-alone organization that provides leadership, advocacy and comprehensive services specific to victims of sexual violence within Southwestern Alberta.

Values:

To fulfill the Vision and Mission of the Chinook Sexual Assault Centre, we value and believe in:

creating a dynamic model of inclusive service delivery for all impacted by sexual violence. (All refers to people of every age, ethnicity, ability, religion, culture, gender, gender identity and sexual orientation)
services that are client centered, trauma informed, grounded in evidence, collaborative, and coordinated
the need for victims of sexual violence to be heard and believed
response services which honour an individual’s unique needs and choices
evidence based practice grounded in innovation, research and evaluation results in the ability to create and deliver required support services, education and care for all
the right to consent, and that any unwanted sexual attention is unacceptable
an individual’s right to safety
respect and dignity for all people
self-care as acritical component of strengthening resilience within a system that supports and values practices resulting in health and wellness
change needing to occur to combat sexual violence
the power of human connection
healing as a process requiring acknowledgement, response, support and time
promotion of gender equality, respect and healthy relationships results in prevention of sexual violence

Our CSAC Team

The eleven individuals that make up the team at the Chinook Sexual Assault Centre are diverse, highly skilled and ready to serve our community. Come by or call – Kristine, Maritza, Mary, Sarah-Jean, Barb, Miranda, Michelle, Corinn, Baylee, Charlotte, or Cheryl – we are here and ready to assist you.
Our Board

Providing amazing leadership, the CSAC Board of Directors are volunteers with heart. Championing the first stand-alone sexual assault centre in Southwestern Alberta, the Board provides for the governance, strategic direction and oversight of our financial health.

Meet our Board of Directors: Michele Montgomery, Chair; Cayley King, Vice-Chair; Tammie Belanger, Treasurer; Liam Nixon, Secretary; Robynn Sander, Director; Melanie Meire, Director; and Roy Pogorzelski, Director.

Our Commitment of Service

Chinook Sexual Assault Services is committed to transparency in our service, through honest, respectful and factual representation of how we serve people and use public funds.

Registered as a society under the Society’s Act of Alberta. Incorporation Number 5020314174. As of April 1, 2019, the Chinook Sexual Assault Centre has been granted the privilege of charitable status through the Canada Revenue Agency. Charitable number 72641 0517 RR0001

“The Chinook Sexual Assault Centre acknowledges that we live and work on the traditional, unceded lands and travelling routes of the Piikani, Kainai, and Siksika Nations; and the Metis people living and working in Blackfoot Territory. “

Whistleblower Policy

Whistleblowers are people who act in good faith to report serious offences such as criminal offences, a breach of legal ...

Privacy Policy

Chinook Sexual Assault Centre (CSAC) is committed to protecting the privacy of the personal information of its employees, volunteers, members, ...

Complaints Policy

The CSAC is committed to providing our clients, participants, donors, and corporate and community partners with a high level of ...

Social Policy

CSAC Public Annual Report 2020-2021.pdf

CSAC Annual Reports

Find out about our services, funding and growth by reading our Annual Reports.

CSAC Audited Financial Statements Year Ending March 31 2021 with schedule.pdf

CSAC Audited Financials and CRA Link

Building trust through accountability