Family Engagement and Practice Assistant

Family Engagement & Practice Assistant (Part-Time, 20 hrs/week)

Location: Vancouver, BC (Hybrid)
Compensation: $25–$27/hour
Term: 10 months (with possibility of extension)

About REA-L

REA-L is a family-founded organization that helps families support their family members who have a label of intellectual or developmental disability in creating inclusive, meaningful lives.

We provide families with tools, opportunities to connect, and to learn alongside other families to help their family members self-direct their own lives.

We focus on real lives in community; relationships, contribution, and belonging, not separation or reliance on services alone. Our work is grounded in equity, social justice, and the belief that people with disabilities should be part of everyday life immersed in our communities alongside everyone else.

Position Summary

The Family Engagement & Practice Associate works directly with REA-L leadership to grow and strengthen a network of families and support meaningful engagement.

This role focuses on building relationships, supporting shared learning, and contributing to a deeper understanding of what helps families support their family members who have a developmental or intellectual disability to live regular, equitable, and authentic lives.

As REA-L continues to evolve, this role plays a key part in both engaging families and capturing what is being learned; including what matters to families, what is helping, and where barriers exist in order to inform the ongoing development of REA-L’s approach, resources, and network.

Key Responsibilities

Family Engagement & Relationship Building

• Build and maintain trusting relationships with families through consistent, thoughtful connection
• Welcome and orient new families into REA-L’s network
• Participate in conversations with families alongside leadership
• Support the creation of respectful, non-judgmental environments where families feel safe to share
• Encourage continued engagement and connection over time

Gatherings, Learning Spaces & Network Development

• Coordinate and support the delivery of gatherings, workshops, and learning spaces (virtual and in-person)
• Assist with facilitation where appropriate, including small group discussions
• Support outreach and promotion to encourage participation
• Ensure consistent follow-up after gatherings to maintain relationships and momentum

Learning, Insight & Practice Development

• Listen for key themes in family conversations, including needs, challenges, and emerging opportunities
• Identify patterns across family experiences and levels of engagement
• Document insights clearly and consistently to inform decision-making
• Contribute to the development of tools, resources, and approaches grounded in real experiences

Communication, Equity & Coordination

• Support communication with families through email, updates, and light social media ensuring alignment with REA-L’s mission and the lived experiences of families and their family member
• Ensure all work aligns with REA-L’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion
• Support coordination, scheduling, and tracking of engagement to ensure strong follow-through
• Maintain simple and effective systems for organizing information and communication

Who This Role Is For

Someone who:

• Builds trust easily and communicates with care
• Listens well without jumping in to fix or direct
• Is curious and notices patterns across conversations
• Is comfortable working in an environment that is still evolving
• Can take initiative while working closely with others

Knowledge & Experience (Preferred)

• Experience in community development, facilitation, or relationship-based roles
• Experience supporting or organizing events, workshops, or group spaces
• Familiarity with social media as a communication tool
• Lived experience as a family member or ally of a person with the label of developmental or intellectual disability (valued but not required)

Values & Approach

• Commitment to equity and social justice
• Respect for diverse perspectives and where families are at in their journey
• Belief in the importance of community, belonging, and everyday relationships
• Focus on strengthening the voice, agency, and leadership of people with disabilities and their families

Working Conditions

• 20 hours per week
• Hybrid work environment with flexible scheduling
• Some travel will be required

To Apply

Please submit your resume and a short cover letter