Outreach Support Worker

Outreach Support Worker

Term: Six months contract position, 35 hours/week with possibility of extension

Housing Alternatives Inc. is a private, non-profit organization that provides development and management services to both Housing Co-operatives and Non-Profit Housing Organizations. Housing Alternatives operates two programs, Housing First Saint John and the Organized Departure Program. As an Outreach Support Worker you will assist people experiencing homelessness to find and maintain suitable housing throughout the housing process (Coordinated Access) with the prime objective to stabilize housing. The incumbent will provide a range of housing search and housing support functions within the Housing First Saint John program.

Responsibilities

• Assisting participants to obtain and get settled in appropriate housing for their individual needs
• Completing regular check-ins with landlords to ensure housing is stable
• Providing ongoing case management with the prime objective of stabilizing tenancy
• Work with participants to develop plans in support of their housing stability and overall wellness
• Duties will involve assessment, service plan development, monitoring, linkage to appropriate community resources, follow-up, appropriate discharge, and data tracking
• Maintain precise and accurate documentation of case management services
• Set and observe appropriate boundaries with participants; observe confidentiality.
• Maintain and promote an atmosphere of dignity and respect in line with the philosophy and policies of Housing Alternatives.
• Be able to adapt hours to participant needs or crisis response as needed.
• Collaborate effectively with other community agencies and resources, and participate in the Coordinated Access system to provide high-quality services to households that may have been impacted by homelessness and related issues
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing, including the preparation of clear, concise, and thorough reports. Preparation of tenancy-related letters & program reports.

Requirements

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and inspire others
• Experience in data collection and analysis
• Proficient in administrative tasks, including record keeping and report writing
• Excellent public speaking and communication skills
• 2-5+ years of experience in outreach work or case management
• Post Secondary education in one or more of the following areas: Human Services, Psychology, Social Work or Education is considered an asset
• Experience conducting training, outreach, and presentations.
• Knowledge of homelessness and affordable housing issues within the community
• Ability to apply the principles of a Housing First approach in day-to-day work and interactions with the client
• Knowledge of the resources in the community for individuals, youth and families who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, living in poverty, or living with mental health or addiction issues
• Ability to integrate harm reduction approaches as appropriate in daily interactions
• Ability to use assertive engagement techniques and identify and assess risk and implement strategies that minimize risk to self and others
• Strong problem-solving, conflict resolution, and mediation skills within a solution-focused framework
• Knowledge of the Residential Tenancy Act
• Capable of functioning as a participating member of the team and understanding the work of the team as part of a broader system to end chronic homelessness
• Ability to coach on the principles and interventions required in a Housing First program
• Background in systems work, data analysis and supporting the work of others to achieve system goals
• Supports a learning culture that stays up to date with the main currents of thought and practice in the delivery of Housing First programs
• Valid NB Driver’s License
• Access to reliable transportation
• Clear Criminal and Vulnerable Sector Record Check
• Proof of COVID-19 vaccinations

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract

Salary: $20.00-$23.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35 per week

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Vision care

Flexible Language Requirement:

• French not required

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Application question(s):

• Do you have a valid class 5 NB drivers license?

Education:

• Secondary School (preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Saint John, NB (required)

Work Location: In person