Wabanaki Wise Worker - Aroostook County

Wabanaki Public Health and Wellness•Houlton, ME

21h•Remote

About The Position

Wabanaki Public Health & Wellness (WPHW) is seeking a Wabanaki Wise Worker to support the Mi’kmaq and Maliseet communities. This role focuses on enhancing the health, safety, and well-being of community members, with a specific emphasis on elder wellness, fall prevention, and veteran engagement. The position involves close collaboration with Elders, Veterans, families, caregivers, Wabanaki communities, WPHW teams, and community partners to plan, support, and participate in events, activities, and outreach efforts across Wabanaki Territories.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.
Must have a valid Maine Driver’s License, must be insurable on the organization’s auto insurance plan and have access to reliable transportation.
Ability and willingness to travel throughout the five Wabanaki Territories.
Passion for supporting the health, safety, and well-being of Wabanaki Elders, Veterans, youth, and families.
Strong understanding of, or willingness to learn, Wabanaki cultures, traditions, values, and community strengths.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to build positive relationships with community members and partners.
Comfortable speaking with individuals, families, and groups in community settings.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries.
Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and virtual meeting platforms.
Willingness to participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
Flexible and adaptable in responding to community and organizational needs.
Enjoys organizing and participating in cultural, wellness, and community-based activities.
Values collaboration, relationship-building, and community engagement.
Is dependable, approachable, and respectful.
Demonstrates initiative and a willingness to learn.
Is committed to promoting wellness, prevention, and healthy communities.
Has a strong interest in supporting Elders, Veterans, and future generations.
Must pass a criminal background check.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree in Human Services, Public Health, Community Health, Social Work, Education, or a related field preferred.
Equivalent combinations of education, lived experience, cultural knowledge, and community involvement will be considered.
Experience working with Tribal communities, community-based programs, public health initiatives, youth, Elders, Veterans, or families preferred.
Experience organizing community events, outreach activities, or educational programs preferred.

Responsibilities

Organize and support monthly activities that promote wellness, community connection, and cultural engagement.
Organize and support community events such as Elder Expos, Community Health Fairs, Community Days, Veteran gatherings, youth events, and prevention-focused activities.
Support teams throughout WPHW in the implementation of programming and community initiatives.
Assist with culturally relevant wellness activities that strengthen community relationships and promote healthy lifestyles.
Work with other WPHW teams to support and lead community-centered programs, events, and outreach efforts.
Participate in regular planning meetings with staff, Elders, Veterans, community partners, and Tribal representatives in each of the five Tribal communities.
Collaborate with local organizations, Tribal departments, and community partners to support program goals and objectives.
Share information with Elders and caregivers about staying safe at home and preventing falls.
Help create and share simple home safety checklists and other tools that reflect Wabanaki culture and lifestyle.
Coordinate or support fall prevention trainings for caregivers, community health workers, and clinics.
Support activities that promote Elder engagement, connection, and well-being.
Engage with Veterans to better understand community needs and identify opportunities for support and connection.
Share information about available Veteran resources, services, programs, and benefits.
Assist with organizing Veteran gatherings, educational events, and wellness activities.
Support outreach efforts that increase awareness of services available to Wabanaki Veterans and their families.
Promote peer-to-peer connections and community support opportunities for Veterans.
Share prevention messages and educational materials that promote safe and responsible choices.
Support community awareness campaigns focused on reducing alcohol-impaired driving.
Assist with organizing prevention activities and events that encourage healthy decisionmaking and community safety.
Participate in outreach efforts that promote harm reduction, wellness, and prevention.
Help distribute educational resources at health fairs, community events, schools, and community gatherings.
Help organize and lead events that blend wellness, prevention, and culture.
Support intergenerational gatherings that bring together youth, adults, Elders, and Veterans in meaningful ways.
Assist with event logistics, outreach, registration, setup, and community engagement activities.
Collaborate with the Knowledge Management team to gather information through assessments, surveys, and community feedback.
Share observations and community input with staff to help guide future programs and services.
Participate in training opportunities that support professional development and program implementation.
Perform all other duties assigned.