Indigenous Wellness Coordinator (Red Deer)

Overview

Your Opportunity: Walk alongside Indigenous patients, and families to support healing, dignity, and wellness within the hospital. The Indigenous Wellness Coordinator (IWC) role is grounded in Indigenous strengths, and Ways of Knowing. The IWC supports Indigenous patients and families by honoring these strengths while they receive care in the hospital setting. The IWC understands the impacts of colonialism and recognizes hospitals can feel unsafe for some Indigenous people. Through presence, listening, and relationship building, the IWC builds safety, trust, and belonging for Indigenous patients and families. IWCs spend meaningful time with patients and families, listening to their stories, supporting cultural, spiritual, and emotional needs, and helping them navigate the healthcare system. Working collaboratively with healthcare teams, the IWC supports culturally secure care. Through advocacy, connection, and shared understanding, the IWC is a bridge between Indigenous patients, families, and Western healthcare, supporting holistic care and improved experiences and outcomes. Key Responsibilities

Support healthcare navigation. Facilitate access to cultural practices and end of life care. Act as a liaison between patients and care teams. Provide just-in-time cultural guidance to staff. Who Should Apply

Are a good listener and community helper. Bring cultural knowledge, and a desire to support others. Feel called to walk alongside Indigenous people in healthcare spaces. Required Qualifications

Indigenous heritage. Good listener and relationship builder. Cultural knowledge and desire to support others. Feeling called to walk alongside Indigenous people in healthcare spaces. There is no minimum education requirement for this position. Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with local Indigenous communities, cultures, and resources. Knowledge of an Indigenous language. Understanding of trauma informed practice and the impact of trauma on oneself and others. Experience with conflict resolution and de‑escalation. Experience working in healthcare, community, or social service settings. Certificate or diploma in a health or social services related field. Other Information

Formal education or healthcare experience are not required. Skills and strengths from lived experience are deeply valued. Training and mentorship will be provided. This position is only open to Indigenous applicants. This is a bona fide occupational requirement under Section 11 of the Alberta Human Rights Act. Indigenous candidates are encouraged to self-identify. Alberta Health Services provides hospital and acute care across Alberta and sometimes to people from other provinces and territories. AHS is committed to providing high-quality care.

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