Homelessness Outreach Worker

BC Housing; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A community housing organization in the Metro Vancouver area seeks a Homelessness Outreach Worker. This role involves connecting with individuals experiencing homelessness, assisting them with housing navigation, and collaborating with local shelters and agencies. Candidates should possess a strong background in crisis management, communication skills, and a relevant educational background. Must have valid BC driver's license and willingness to work flexible hours.

Qualifications

• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty.
• Experience liaising with various housing providers.
• Experience with crisis management or de-escalation techniques.

Responsibilities

• Connect with people experiencing homelessness in community locations.
• Aid individuals in navigating housing and support systems.
• Collaborate with shelters and service agencies.

Skills

Crisis management

Conflict resolution

Cultural sensitivity

Verbal communication

Written communication

Negotiation

MS Office proficiency

Education

High School diploma

Post-secondary courses in social housing/community development/mental health

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Coordinated Access and Assessment Manager, the Homelessness Outreach Worker connects with people experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless in community locations. He / She / They aides and assists individuals to navigate housing and related support system(s). The incumbent collaborates and partners with shelters and supportive housing providers, and homelessness service agencies to ensure an integrated system of supports and services. As a core member of a multidisciplinary regional homelessness and encampment response team (HEART), the position supports communities to prevent, minimize and or resolve encampments and respond to homelessness through coordination and rapid support for individuals sheltering outdoors.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

The successful candidate will have the following :

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE :

• High School diploma plus completion of post-secondary courses in social housing, community development, mental health, trauma counselling and or other relevant discipline
• Considerable progressive experience in working with individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty on account of physical, mental, or psychological disability, and or, substance use challenges.
• Sound experience in liaising with government, private and community-based housing providers and working with individuals from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.
• Some experience with crisis management and or de-escalation techniques. Or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience acceptable to the employer.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES :

• Considerable knowledge of causal factors of homelessness, mental illness and or addiction.
• Sound understanding of the importance of cultural and community connections in supporting individuals to improve well-being, exit homelessness and thrive in housing.
• Good understanding or lived experience of the impacts of residential schools, generational trauma and or abuse.
• Sound knowledge of government, private and community-based housing service providers.
• Good de-escalation, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills to manage evolving situations.
• Good understanding of traditional, cultural and or holistic wellness and healing initiatives
• Exceptional verbal and written communications skills.
• Proficient in computer applications and software including MS Office tools.
• Demonstrated ability to empathize when engaging with individuals from diverse socio economic and cultural backgrounds, a high degree of confidentiality and sensitivity.
• Demonstrated ability to partner, curious perspective when engaging with a wide array of community partners, including advocates, volunteers, local business owners, neighbours, and community members.
• Ability to develop strong partnerships with services providers and community partners.
• Ability to learn, understand and update BC Housing mandate, programs, and services.
• Ability to develop and foster trusting relationships with people facing homelessness and multiple barriers.
• Ability to travel and work periodic evenings and weekends; transportation arrangements must meet the operational requirements of the position.
• Valid Class 5 BC driver’s license and access to a vehicle.
• Tier 4 Criminal Record Check Required.