We are currently seeking a Community Support Worker to add to our team! This is a full-time parental leave position. Our organization offers a challenging and interesting environment that is supportive of both the community and professional growth and achievement of its employees!
CLOSING DATE is September 17, 2019
Community Support Workers at Bethlehem Housing & Support Services (BHSS) provide advocacy and support to disadvantaged individuals facing issues such as poverty, homelessness, domestic violence, mental health issues, addiction issues and/or family breakdown. Community Support Workers provide support in an effort to assist clients to maintain safe and stable housing while residing in BHSS housing units or in the community on an outreach basis.
QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES
- Diploma or Degree in Social Services or other public service related field.
- Minimum of two years’ related social service experience, preferably with direct program delivery experience in the areas of supportive housing, violence against women, mental health, homelessness, and/or addictions.
- Strong knowledge and awareness of community services, local programming, and housing.
- Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of people, with varying levels of ability and/or challenges.
- Excellent time management, organizational, and leadership skills.
- Has a mature and empathetic personality, able to relate and communicate with individuals in a positive and judgement free manner.
- Demonstrates and promotes a personal understanding and appreciation for the mission, vision, strategic outcomes and values of Bethlehem Housing & Support Services.
- Vulnerable Sector Police Check (or willingness to obtain) with results satisfactory to Bethlehem Housing & Support Services, which is eligible for a partial reimbursement by the organization.
- Valid Certification in First Aid/CPR (or willingness to obtain at BHSS expense)
- Available to work evenings and weekends as required.
- Bilingual English/French or other languages an asset.
- Proficiency with MS Office programs including but not limited to Word, Excel and Outlook.
- Must have excellent written, active listening, and verbal communication skills.
- Have access to a car; hold a valid Driver’s license in good standing and insurance.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Direct Service
- Assess the needs of individuals requesting support services from BHSS.
- Develop service plans with clients through a client-centred approach.
- Meet with clients in the office, community or in client homes.
- Work in cooperation with other BHSS program and/or department staff members, as well as liaise and coordinate services with other organizations and community support agencies.
- Provide information to individuals on options and available resources in the community.
- Ensure a “trauma informed” approach is maintained within program and service delivery.
- Assist clients with Lifeskills in areas such as: relationships, finances, housing, parenting, education/training, employment, health, etc. as identified by the client goals and service plan.
- Provide direct support through crisis prevention/intervention with clients.
- Assist with the intake process of new applicants and provide supports as required.
- Advocate with third parties in specific cases (e.g. Landlords, FACS, court appearances, and enrolling children in school).
- Provide on-call support and availability after hours, as required.
- Consult with the Program Manager for direction regarding service delivery.
- Maintain a database of required statistics and additional reports as required.
- Maintain record of client contacts, individual service plans, services provided (individual and group) and outcomes.
- Encourage clients to participate in program evaluation.
- Occasionally drive clients in personal vehicle.
Program Administration
- Follow the Privacy of Personal Information policy and procedures of Bethlehem.
- Follow all established organizational policies and procedures.
- Support the strategic plan, mission, vision and values of the organization.
- Promote and participate in a work environment free of workplace harassment and violence.
- Perform work in a safe manner, so as not to endanger oneself or others.
- Immediately report all workplace hazards, accidents or other occurrences that may pose a risk to the organization or the safety of oneself or others.
- Adhere to the Occupational Health & Safety Act, Workplace Safety & Insurance Board Act, Ontario Human Rights Code and Employment Standards Act.
- Participate in all training programs as required.
- Participate in team/staff meetings when required.
- Work in a manner that preserves confidentiality and minimizes risk.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Please submit your resume and cover letter by completing the career form on our website or through Charity Village.