Social Support Worker

About this position

Mission Statement

Belong Ottawa offers support to homeless and vulnerably housed people to ensure health and well-being, nourishment, and social connection. Our programs promote equity and address barriers such as housing, food and income insecurity. Everyone who comes to our agencies will be given the opportunity to have their individual needs addressed through a variety of services unique to each program and space. Our mission is to provide safe spaces that connect people and create a community in which we foster dignity, wellness and hope for all.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Ensure that a safe and supportive environment is maintained at the Centre.
• Assist in the planning and supervision of recreational activities.
• Assist during mealtimes.
• Encourage participants to be engaged in activities and daily tasks related to the program.
• Provide information, assistance and advocacy to participants in accordance with the policies and procedures of each social service drop-in centre.
• Provide support and to the volunteers at each drop-in centre.
• Advise and mentor academic students, as directed by the Team Leader.
• Make referrals to other agencies and community resources as required.
• Ensure that each Centre is secured upon closing each day.
• Ensure that emergency and critical participant incident management plans are affected appropriately.
• Work collaboratively with the other staff on site, including the Program Administrator, other Program Support Workers, the Food Services Coordinator, ODSP Application Assistants, Social Support workers.
• Support the Program Manager in the administration and operational responsibilities of the organization as required.

Job Requirements and Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in the social sciences, social work or equivalent experience and education.
• A client-centered and non-judgmental approach.
• A demonstrated flexible approach with the ability to problem solve.
• Understanding issues related to poverty, homelessness, addictions, mental illness and a strong motivation to support people to achieve their potential.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain professionalism in stressful situations.
• Ability to work in a demanding and busy environment.
• Experience working with people from marginalized communities and diverse populations.
• Experience working with people who have experienced homelessness.
• Excellent knowledge of community resources and social services in Ottawa.
• Harm reduction training such as Naloxone and safe needle handling/disposal.
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training.
• First Aid, CPR, AED training.
• Bilingualism, English/French, is preferred and additional languages would be an asset.
• Moderate computer skills (ie: basic use of MS office)

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Dental care
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• Paid time off.

Thank you for your interest in our opportunity.

We thank all who apply. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Successful candidates will be required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Police Records Check

The Anglican Diocese of Ottawa is committed to accessibility, values diversity and is committed to providing equal opportunities in employment and to protecting the human rights of its employees. We welcome and encourage applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.