JASON STAATS is from Six Nations. He grew up in Brantford, Ontario, then later moved to Barrie to attend Georgian College. There he studied in a number of programs in the areas of health, culture and well-being (Pre-Health Science certificate, one year towards a Bachelor of Nursing, and Shki-Miikan Indigenous Studies certificate). Following graduation, one of his instructors referred him to Miziwe Biik where there was a job posting that caught his interest. Working with the staff at Miziwe Biik he succeeded in obtaining a position at the Native Men’s Residence (Na-Me-Res).
Moving to Toronto wasn’t the easiest of transitions. While being employed, Jason couch-surfed at the homes of friends and family. The irony didn’t escape him.
I became homeless in order to work for the homeless.
Jason’s compassion and empathy for his clients also come from shared life experiences. He has four proud years of sobriety, deals successfully with mental health issues, and is reconnecting with his culture. Jason started at Na-Me-Res as a Client Care Worker trainee in May 2017, but quickly took on the role of Team Lead. In his new role, he was able to increase communications within the organization in order to establish consistent care for clients transitioning through all of the programs (outreach, shelter, Mino Kaanjigoowin’s dual diagnosis mental health + addictions team, and Sagatay transitional housing). Aware of the importance of building teams and sharing responsibilities, Jason relies heavily on his co-workers. He describes the Client Care Workers as the “Day to Day Heroes.” All of the team works with the bigger issues that face the community but they are also adept at managing the little things that keep clients comfortable and happy in a healthy and culturally supportive environment.
Over the upcoming months, Jason is moving into a Case Manager role, giving him a better opportunity to develop care plans for clients. These plans address long-term needs and how to move individuals forward. Jason is excited at the opportunity to continue his professional growth while addressing systemic barriers within the shelter system.
Interested in working a trainee position? Find them in our External Job Postings.
