HEATHER MACLARY, BSW, RSW
Sault Ste. Marie,ON
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate social worker with 10+ years of experience in the social services sector, specializing in First Nations Child Welfare. Proven leadership skills in team management, community engagement, and culturally competent care delivery. Expertise in working with diverse populations, including children, youth, families, and Knowledge Keepers. Committed to promoting an anti-oppressive, client-centered, strength-based practice for the well-being of individuals and communities.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Protection Resource Manager
Nogdawindamin Family & Community Services
01.2020 - Current
- Manage a portfolio encompassing Foster Care, Adoption, Recruitment, Access, and Family Well-Being
- Supervise and support staff in the delivery of culturally appropriate services, ensuring compliance with Ministry standards and agency best practices
- Lead community outreach and awareness campaigns to recruit and engage potential Alternative Care Parents
- Develop and implement strategic initiatives to improve service delivery and client outcomes
- Provide direct support and consultation for cases involving First Nation children and families with complex needs
- Collaborated with department heads to identify staffing requirements, resulting in improved workforce planning and reduced turnover rates.
Alternative Care Supervisor
Nogdawindamin Family & Community Services
01.2018 - 01.2021
- Supervised and mentored a multidisciplinary team, ensuring quality service provision and adherence to policies
- Managed cases for foster homes, group care, and treatment facilities
- Facilitated support groups for Alternative Care Parents, offering resources and guidance to improve retention and care standards
- Streamlined the home study and assessment process for prospective caregivers, improving efficiency and outcomes
Alternative Care Worker
Nogdawindamin Family & Community Services
01.2016 - 01.2018
- Delivered direct case management and support to families and children in Alternative Care placements
- Worked closely with families to develop and monitor care plans, ensuring the safety and well-being of children
- Provided crisis intervention services to children and caregivers, including those facing mental health, addiction, and behavioral challenges
- Supported families through the reunification process
Educational Assistant
Algoma District School Board
01.2014 - 01.2016
- Supported students with a variety of learning and behavioral needs, working collaboratively with educators to implement Individual Education Plans (IEPs)
- Assisted with the development and delivery of educational materials, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all students
Case Manager / Social Worker
Summit Human Services / Larimar Homes
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Managed cases for individuals with complex mental health and behavioral issues, developing personalized care and treatment plans
- Coordinated with other service providers to ensure a holistic approach to client care
Residential Youth Worker
Summit Human Services
01.2011 - 01.2014
- Provided direct care and support for youth in residential treatment programs
- Developed and implemented behavior management strategies and participated in case reviews
Education
Honours Bachelor of Social Work -
Algoma University
Sault Ste. Marie, ON 06-2014
Social Service Worker Diploma -
Sault College of Applied Arts And Technology
Sault Ste. Marie, ON06-2011
Skills
- Decision-making
- Problem solving
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Case Management
- Cultural competency
- Anti-Oppressive Practice
- Crisis management
- Program development
- Community engagement
- Crisis intervention
- Strategic planning
- Staff training
- Confidentiality
- Public speaking
- Community outreach
- Recruitment,
- Pre-employment screening and interviewing
- Creative thinking
- Project planning
Training
- ASSIST Training
- SAFE Home Study Training & SAFE Supervisor Training
- HEART & SPIRIT
- Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI)
- Restorative Justice Training
- Clinical Supervision Training
- Emotion Focused Family Therapy
- Child and Adolescent Functional Assessment Scale (CAFAS) Training
- First Nations Cultural Training
- Forensic Interviewing
- Grief and Loss Training
- Privacy and Ethical Practice Training
- Gender Diversity Training
- Managing in Indigenous Child Welfare
- Change Management in Indigenous Child Welfare
Awards
Algoma Visionary Award - Public and Social Services Sector
January, 2020
Timeline
Protection Resource Manager
Nogdawindamin Family & Community Services
01.2020 - Current
Alternative Care Supervisor
Nogdawindamin Family & Community Services
01.2018 - 01.2021
Alternative Care Worker
Nogdawindamin Family & Community Services
01.2016 - 01.2018
Educational Assistant
Algoma District School Board
01.2014 - 01.2016
Case Manager / Social Worker
Summit Human Services / Larimar Homes
01.2014 - 01.2015
Residential Youth Worker
Summit Human Services
01.2011 - 01.2014
Honours Bachelor of Social Work -
Algoma University
Social Service Worker Diploma -
Sault College of Applied Arts And Technology
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