Diversion Worker

The Pod Group; Mississauga; On-site; CAD 49,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pod Group is partnering with a Peel Region organization to recruit a Diversion Worker who will support homeless youth with safe housing options and access to shelter services. The role operates a 40-hour work week on a rotating day/evening schedule (8:00–16:00 and 15:30–23:30).

The successful candidate will assess needs, provide diversion services, and coordinate care within a system of care. Ideal applicants hold a university degree in social services and have 3+ years of experience working

Qualifications

• University degree in social services or equivalent.
• 3+ years experience supporting youth experiencing homelessness.
• Experience in mental health, harm reduction and crisis intervention.
• Knowledge of Motivational Interviewing, CBT/DBT and harm reduction.

Responsibilities

• Meet with youth entering the shelter to assess and explore safe alternative living arrangements.
• Assess diversion or shelter entry and coordinate access to shelter services.
• Provide client-centered counseling, conflict resolution and mediation to prevent homelessness.
• Develop and maintain relationships with community partners and refer to appropriate services.
• Maintain records and compile monthly/quarterly reports for funding and program evaluation.

Skills

Youth mental health support

Crisis intervention

Motivational Interviewing

Cultural competency

Education

University degree or equivalent in social services

Job description

COMPASSIONATE STRATEGIC DETAIL-ORIENTED RESOURCEFUL CLIENT-CENTRED

OVERVIEW

A growing, community-based organization that provides shelter and outreach support for homeless youth in Peel Region. They are a leading organization recognized in the community for its commitment to providing youth in need with a safe environment and access to services to help them achieve independence and foster growth.

Are you passionate about supporting youth homelessness?

The Pod Group is partnering with this organization to place a resourceful, compassionate, and hands-on individual to fulfill the role of a Diversion Worker.

WHY YOUR ROLE MATTERS

The Diversion Worker provides diversion support for youth who are experiencing or at-risk of homelessness to secure safe housing alternatives to emergency shelter that is appropriate to their circumstances including acquiring or to maintain existing housing. The Day/Evening position will be 40 hours per week, based on a 5 day rotation between day and evening shifts. The day shift is from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. and the evening shift is from 3:30 pm to 11:30 pm.

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

• Meet with youth entering the shelter to assess and explore safe alternative living arrangements through solution focused support and diversion services.
• Work within a system of care approach to assess diversion or entry to the shelter, and provide coordinated access to the shelter system if appropriate.
• Apply client-centered approach when working with youth to achieve positive outcomes and empower them through strength-based practices.
• Provide counseling, conflict resolution and mediation to youth, their ‘families’ and/or landlords to prevent homelessness.
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with community partners and support youth with referrals to appropriate professional services.
• Assist in creating practices and protocols that promote positive shelter diversion outcomes.
• Participate in client care reviews and team meetings to ensure effective delivery of support services and continuity of care.
• Facilitate and/or support social and emotional skills groups for youth.
• Collaborate with other agencies that work in the areas of youth homelessness.
• Utilize assessment tools to provide accurate care planning, outcomes and client centered goal development.
• Compiles statistical information and prepares monthly reports as required for program evaluation and development.
• Maintain accurate records, including Housing Technology, and entering client data for monthly, quarterly and annual funding reports.
• Actively network within the community to promote the program and services by conducting presentations, attending information sessions and sitting on committees.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING

• University degree or equivalent in related social services field.
• 3+ years experience within the social service sector supporting youth experiencing homelessness, mental illness and substance use in obtaining housing, employment, educational and community opportunities.
• Experience in mental health, harm reduction and crisis intervention.
• Experience supporting youth through evidence-based practices and frameworks (Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, Harm Reduction).
• Cultural competency sensitivity and commitment to working through an anti-oppressive, anti-racism framework.
• Knowledge of housing first for youth, trauma informed care, and counselling.
• Knowledge of resources within the Region of Peel, specifically for youth.
• Ability to work rotating shifts including some weekends and holidays.
• A valid Ontario Driver’s License, access to a vehicle and $2,000,000 (minimum) liability car insurance coverage are mandatory
• Valid CPI/ UMAB and First Aid/ CPR certifications.
• Satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Police Check that meets the standards of Our Place Peel.

OUR COMMITMENT TO EDIB

The success of an organization stems from a team that is aligned with its mission and vision, where decisions are made in the best interests of the clients they serve and the marginalized and vulnerable populations across our communities. Through this effort, all team members embrace their roles in the organization with respect and dignity for all stakeholders. Through these partnerships, everyone is focused on ensuring a commitment and responsibility toward anti-racism, anti-oppression, equity,diversity, inclusivity, and belonging.

We thank you for your interestinapplying!

Job Type: Full-Time, unionized role

Unionized Salary: $54,635 CAD Annually

Vacancy: Current Opening