Jay van Zeeventer
Calgary,Canada
Summary
Experienced Child and Youth Care Counsellor with over five years of proven success supporting diverse youth in group homes and supportive housing settings. Skilled in trauma-informed care, cultural humility, and community-based practices. Prioritizing trust, safety, and self-determination, I acknowledge the impact of intergenerational trauma from colonial systems such as the Sixties Scoop. I am committed to supporting Indigenous-led healing initiatives, honours kinship structures, and collaborating with community-defined care to decolonize child intervention practices. I have been deeply privileged to receive teachings, partake in ceremonies, and listen to stories alongside Anishinaabe, Cree, and Michif Elders and community members, whose guidance continues to shape my practice with humility, accountability, and deep respect.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Youth Worker & Supportive Housing Staff
Trellis Society
08.2022 - Current
- Guided over twenty teenagers aged 16–17 in transitional group care through trauma-informed practices.
- Organized daily routines, cultural engagements, and healthcare appointments.
- Implemented safety plans and crafted personalized care strategies.
- Tracked funds and maintained accurate records with accountability.
- Accepted overnight, evening, weekend, and extended shifts to address staffing shortages.
- Offered gender-affirming assistance, coordinated with school and healthcare professionals, and promoted youth advocacy.
- Facilitated monthly sessions to address gaps in sexual health education.
- Enhanced prenatal and housing assistance for expectant youth through effective agency partnerships.
Family Support Worker
Assure Community Services
08.2020 - 08.2022
- Facilitated family interventions using trauma-informed and culturally aware approaches.
- Enhanced support systems for youth through strategic safety planning.
- Strengthened family dynamics with a focus on preventive measures and coaching.
Leadership Practicum Student
Métis Calgary Family Services
01.2022 - 04.2022
- Engaged with Indigenous governance, organizational leadership, and power structures by learning from Elders, program leads, and community decision-making processes.
- Facilitated qualitative research exploring gaps and experiences of Indigenous employees working for Indigenous and non-Indigenous governed service models offering child, youth, and family support programs.
- Promoted the significance of following in allyship for effective service delivery
- Supported culturally responsive parenting initiatives and child development programs through collaboration with the Ke Mama Nnanik Family Program.
- Enhanced practicum experience by collaborating with multidisciplinary team members and integrating their feedback.
Education
Bachelor of Child Studies - Child and Youth Care Counsellor
Mount Royal University
Calgary01.2022
Skills
- Trauma-informed and culturally safe care
- Behavioural intervention and natural consequences
- Knowledge of Indigenous kinship and caregiving structures
- Advocacy and safeguarding youth rights
- Inclusive program facilitation and daily activity planning
- Gender-affirming and identity-inclusive support
- Crisis intervention and de-escalation
- Case documentation and petty cash management
- Interdisciplinary collaboration and family engagement
- Flexible availability including overnights and weekends
Certification
- CPR & First Aid – Valid until February 8, 2025
- Criminal Record & Vulnerable Sector Check – Completed January 3, 2024
- Child Intervention Record Check – Completed January 27, 2025
- Class 5 Driver’s License ($2 million liability coverage) – Valid with 5+ years of driving experience
Timeline
Youth Worker & Supportive Housing Staff
Trellis Society
08.2022 - Current
Leadership Practicum Student
Métis Calgary Family Services
01.2022 - 04.2022
Family Support Worker
Assure Community Services
08.2020 - 08.2022
Bachelor of Child Studies - Child and Youth Care Counsellor
Mount Royal University
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