Job Description

Job Title:

Mental Health and Community Connections Assistant

Organization: North Okanagan Friendship Center Society (NOFCS)

About Us:

The North Okanagan Friendship Center Society is an Indigenous non-profit organization affiliated with the British Columbia Association of Friendship Centers. Our mission is to provide culturally appropriate health and social programs and services for the North Okanagan community.

At NOFCS, our people are at the heart of our organization. We are committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where staff and clients can thrive. We value diversity, accountability, and integrity, and we take pride in offering meaningful work that strengthens community connections and supports wellness.

Position Summary:

The

Mental Health and Community Connections Assistant

position provides both administrative support and front-line community engagement. This role combines reception and clerical duties with responsibilities that assist clients in connecting to resources and services related to mental health, social programs, housing, and overall wellbeing.

Reporting to the

Office Manager/Executive Assistant

and the

Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor

, the successful candidate will serve as the first point of contact for clients and community members entering the Center and will provide direct support for the mental health and addictions program assisting with client intake and appointment scheduling, and coordination and support for program activities and events towards enhancing strong connections between NOFCS and the broader community.

Key Responsibilities:

Reception & General Administrative Support

Provide administrative support to the Office Manager/Executive Assistant and Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor. Greet and assist clients, visitors, and contractors in a professional and culturally respectful manner. Answer telephone, email, and in-person inquiries; direct calls and messages appropriately. Photocopy, organize, and distribute documents for mailing, binding, and filing. Maintain accurate documentation and data files for all activities related to the reception area and mental health programs. Assist with preparation for meetings both onsite (e.g., Wellbriety) and off-site (e.g., Annual General Meeting). Provide coverage for the Office Manager/Executive Assistant during absences. Always uphold strict confidentiality.

Community Connections & Client Support

Support individuals by connecting them to both NOFCS and community programs, services, and resources. Assist clients with applications, referrals, and navigating health, social, and wellness supports. Assist the Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor with client intake, scheduling, and program administration. Maintain accurate program records and data to support reporting requirements. Help develop resource materials and maintain an updated directory of local community resources available to clients. Assist in organizing and promoting community-based workshops, events, and wellness activities. Follow-up with clients to ensure connections and referrals are successful.

Program & Volunteer Support

Assist with coordination of community programs such as outreach initiatives, volunteer engagement, and workshops. Support the recruitment, onboarding, and scheduling of volunteers assisting in community programs. Participate in team meetings, training, and professional development opportunities. Contribute ideas for continuous improvement of client services and community connections.

Qualifications and Requirements:

Office Administration training and/or relevant experience in a social services or community-based setting. Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and database management. Knowledge of community resources, programs, and services throughout the North Okanagan region. Competence in maintaining accurate and confidential client files, both digital and hard copy. Knowledge of privacy and data protection requirements when managing client information. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Ability to multitask, manage competing priorities, and maintain attention for detail. Demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and commitment to confidentiality. Valid driver's license, clear driver's abstract, and reliable transportation. Clear Criminal Record Check - Vulnerable Sector required.

Assets:

Experience working in an Indigenous organization or community-based setting. Skilled in conducting client intake forms and collecting relevant information accurately and confidentially. Familiarity with trauma-informed and culturally safe approaches. Strong listening skills to identify client needs and communicate them effectively to the counsellor. Ability to de-escalate emotions or stressful situations calmly and respectively. Active listening and empathy while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries. Knowledge of Indigenous culture, traditions, and protocols.

Core Competencies:

Communication:

Clear, respectful, and consistent verbal and written communication.

Judgment & Integrity:

Demonstrates sound decision-making and ethical conduct specifically around client privacy and confidentiality.

Collaboration:

Works effectively with others and fosters positive relationships with all staff, clients, members, and the public.

Organization:

Maintains systems and prioritizes workload effectively.

Cultural Sensitivity:

Respects and supports cultural values, practices, and diversity.

Continuous Improvement:

Seeks opportunities to enhance services and processes.

Work Conditions:

Interaction with clients, contractors, and the public. Extended periods of sitting and computer use. Occasional participation in community events and outreach activities. Wonderful office environment with occasional overtime or flexible hours as needed.

Compensation:

$24.00 - $25.00 per hour

, depending on experience.
37.5 hours per week. Benefits available following a three-month probationary period.

How to Apply:

Please submit your

cover letter and resume

before November 5, 2025,

to:

Annette Madsen, Office Manager

Email: assistant@nofcs.ca

In your cover letter, please explain why you wish to work for an Indigenous organization.
Preference will be given to qualified applicants of Indigenous ancestry, in accordance with Section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $24.00-$25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 37.5 per week

Benefits:

Dental care Employee assistance program Extended health care Life insurance
Work Location: In person