Foster Caregiver - Therapeutic Foster Care (Fort McMurray)

We're a not-for-profit mental health centre based in Calgary, with locations across Alberta. Our mission is to build good mental health and well-being so everyone can thrive in their community.

Wood’s Homes is currently looking for Therapeutic Foster Caregivers (Home Fire Keepers) in Fort McMurray and area.

Wood’s Homes Therapeutic Foster Care (TFC) is a specialized treatment model that combines therapeutic-based care and cultural continuity within a transitional, in-home foster care placement. TFC is not intended to replace group-care placements; rather, it provides a “scaffolding” approach that supports children and youth as they transition from institutional therapeutic programming into a community-based home environment. This model preserves key benefits of traditional foster care (a natural caregiving environment and stronger connection to home communities and culture) while providing intensive support typical of therapeutic settings.

Children and youth with significant histories of traumatic experiences; developmental, mental health, or high-risk behavioural concerns; or who have not been successful in traditional home-like placements may be a good fit for TFC after responding well to intensive therapeutic programs and interventions. The mission of TFC is to take a wholistic, community-driven approach to enhance strengths, build connection, maintain or strengthen cultural identity, and support each child’s transition home or to a less intensive environment (such as traditional foster care).

What to expect (supports provided)

Home Fire Keepers provide a safe and supportive home for young people, with support from Wood’s Homes, including:

• Trauma-informed care guidance and support focused on healthy development, positive parenting, and quality caregiving.
• Access to Wood’s Homes clinical team and cultural navigators.
• 24/7 on-call support through Wood’s Homes staff.
• Ongoing collaboration with a team of youth specialists, cultural leads, and a clinician.

Qualifications

• Experience working with young people with behavioral and trauma-related challenges.
• Knowledge of Indigenous cultures and a willingness to learn.
• Willingness and ability to participate in training and collaborate with the TFC team.
• Ability to provide a stable, safe home environment for young people.
• Reliable transportation and a valid Class 5 driver’s license.

Key responsibilities

• Provide care for young people in your home on a 24/7 basis.
• Provide a safe, stable home environment for young people aged 5–17 for a short-term placement (typically 1–3 years).
• Support daily routines, school participation, life skills development, and building healthy socialization skillsets.
• Support emotional regulation and conflict-resolution skill-building.
• Support cultural learning and engagement.
• Support therapeutic and recreational activities chosen by the young person.
• Transport to and attend medical appointments and school meetings, including arranging annual checkups with doctors, dentists, and optometrists.
• Complete documentation in a timely manner and maintain open communication with the TFC team.
• Provide care in a home licensed for 1–2 young people.

Compensation

• Therapeutic homes may have 1–2 young people in their home.
• Per diem, to cover additional costs to care for a young person in your home: Year 1 \$110/day; Year 2 \$115/day; Year 3 \$120/day
• Participation in training is compensated.
• Regular respite of two days per month (included in the per diem).

How to apply

To apply, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter through Indeed or email your application to: [email protected]

Why choose us. We are committed to a workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We empower and are advocates for our employees by welcoming, respecting and valuing their unique perspectives, backgrounds and experiences. At Wood’s Homes we embrace each other’s differences and strive to learn and grow from them. We sincerely thank all applicants for their interest in this position; however, only those moving forward in the selection process will be contacted.