Position Overview
The Community Health Representative (CHR) will work closely with Cheam First Nation members and the Health Director to promote and improve the overall health and well-being of the community. The CHR will serve as a liaison between the community and health services, ensuring that culturally appropriate health programs and services are accessible and effective for community members.
Who we are.
The Cheam First Nation is a member of the Sto:lo Tribal Council. Our band is located in the Fraser Valley near the town of Chilliwack and approximately 100 kilometers east of Vancouver.
The Cheam people traditionally speak the Upriver dialect of Halkomelem, which is one of the Salishan family of languages.
Cheam First Nation has 580 registered members living on and off reserve. The Band is governed by a chief and five councillors, all of whom are elected by band members for a two-year term.
Key Responsibilities
• Promote health education and wellness programs within the Cheam First Nation community.
• Organize and facilitate health-related events, workshops, and outreach programs on topics such as nutrition, physical activity, mental health, chronic disease prevention, and maternal health.
• Support and advocate on behalf of members with external agencies (e.g. FNHA & ISC) and with health service suppliers
• Foster relationships with community members to better understand their health needs and concerns.
• Assist with community health assessments and surveys to identify health priorities and needs.
• Assist in the development and delivery of community health programs and services based on the identified needs of the community.
• Provide health resources, information, and referrals to Cheam First Nation members regarding health services and programs.
• Support the implementation of public health initiatives and vaccination clinics, working in collaboration with regional and provincial health authorities.
• Advocate for Cheam First Nation community members within healthcare systems, ensuring access to healthcare services and support.
• Provide one-on-one support to individuals seeking information or assistance with navigating health services, such as arranging transportation, booking appointments, or interpreting health-related documents.
• Maintain accurate records of health programs, services, and community engagement activities.
• Comply with the legal obligations, as well as with the professional, ethical and organizational standards that ensure privacy, security and confidentiality in the access, retention, storage and disposal of personal health information.
• Prepare regular reports on community health issues, progress, and outcomes for the Health Director and other stakeholders.
• Work collaboratively with other community-based services, including the Cheam First Nation Social Development team, and external health organizations to deliver comprehensive support to community members.
• Coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care for community members.
Qualifications
• A certificate or diploma in a health-related field (e.g., Community Health Representative Public Health) is preferred.
• Previous experience in health promotion, community health, or a related field is an asset.
• Knowledge of Indigenous health issues, culture, and traditions, particularly those affecting First Nations communities.
• Experience in working with First Nations communities is an asset.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with community members.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple responsibilities.
• Knowledge of local, provincial, and federal health programs and services available to Indigenous communities.
• Basic understanding of health promotion principles and public health practices.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• A strong commitment to supporting the health and well-being of the Cheam First Nation community.
• Empathy, compassion, and respect for Indigenous traditions and practices.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with integrity.
Working Conditions
• Must be willing to travel locally and, if necessary, regionally to support community health programs and initiatives.
• Some evening or weekend work may be required depending on community events and program schedules.
• Occasional physical activity may be involved in organizing community health events and outreach programs.
How to Apply
Apply by submitting your resume and a cover letter to [email protected] detailing your relevant experience and interest in this role.
Thank you for your interest in joining our team at Cheam. We appreciate the time and effort you have taken to apply for the Community Health Representative role.
We encourage Band Members and Indigenous people to self-identify when applying.
Please note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. We thank all applicants for their interest and encourage you to apply for future opportunities that match your qualifications.
