Support Worker (One Year Fixed Term)

Hogan's Alley Society; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 41,328 - 44,083; Full time

Job summary

Hogan’s Alley Society is seeking a Support Worker for Nora Hendrix Place in Vancouver to ensure the well-being of residents through compassionate support. This full-time role involves case planning, providing emotional and social support, and collaborating with various service providers.

The ideal candidate will have a background in community support work, knowledge of mental health resources, and commitment to serving marginalized populations. Join us to make a positive impact in the community.

Qualifications

• Two years' experience in a similar role.
• Knowledge of Black and Indigenous community and health resources.
• Experience in harm reduction environments.

Responsibilities

• Assess residents' well-being and make referrals.
• Develop individual case plans with residents.
• Support residents in achieving their personal goals.

Skills

Experience working with people affected by trauma

Knowledge of mental health diagnosis and treatment

Clear communication skills

Education

Diploma or certificate in community support or relevant discipline

Food safe certification

Valid B.C. driver's license

Job description

About this position

Hogan’s Alley Society (HAS) is a Vancouver-based non-profit dedicated to advancing the social, political, economic, and cultural well‑being of people of African descent (Black people). Our work includes inclusive housing, community programs, and public education, and focuses on restoring and celebrating the Black presence in Vancouver while addressing the impacts of displacement and systemic racism.

Position Title

Support Worker (Nora Hendrix Place)

Reports To

Building Manager

Base Salary Range

$30.90 per hour

Hours of Work

Forty (40) hours per week, consisting of 8.5 hours per day including a 30‑minute unpaid lunch break, Monday through Friday from 8:30am – 5:00pm

Role Type

Fixed‑Term One Year, Full‑Time

Work Location

Nora Hendrix Place – 258 Union Street, Vancouver, BC

Scope of Role

Reporting to the Building Manager, the Support Worker is responsible for the day‑to‑day work of supporting residents at Nora Hendrix Place. The support worker will collaborate with residents and staff to provide a range of services, including case planning/management, day‑to‑day physical, emotional, and social support, life‑skills assistance, information, and resources. The Support Worker also works collaboratively with other direct service staff, cultural supports, families, and external service providers and government ministries involved in the care and support of residents.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assess the general well‑being of residents and make referrals to service providers as applicable.
• Help develop individual case plans.
• Work with residents to identify their goals and map out their unique journey while living in the building.
• Support and accompany residents to medical, ministry, and/or legal appointments.
• Conduct regular safety checks on residents throughout internal and external property.
• Liaise with relevant community partners regarding residents’ various needs.
• Provide one‑to‑one support, accompaniment, and advocacy.
• Document relevant information about resident well‑being to ensure continuity of care.
• Other responsibilities as directed by the building management team.

Skills / Knowledge / Experience

• Two (2) years’ experience working in a similar role.
• Experience and knowledge about mental health diagnosis, medications, treatment and support resources.
• Knowledge of Black and Indigenous community and health resources.
• Understand the ongoing impact of colonialism and the residential school system.
• Clear understanding of Black history in Canada, and experience working with immigrants and refugees.
• Knowledge of the legacies of urban renewal, residential displacement, and the attempted erasure of people of African descent in Metro Vancouver from Vancouver’s historical narrative.
• Basic sound knowledge of relevant physical health issues (e.g. HIV and Hepatitis C), including diagnosis, treatment, and support resources.
• Demonstrate clear, direct and sensitive verbal and written communication skills.

Training / Education Required

• Minimum diploma or certificate in a relevant discipline (e.g. community support worker, mental health and addictions worker, or social services worker) with at least two years of experience as a support worker working with people affected by trauma and who may also struggle with substance use and/or mental wellness.
• Equivalent combination of relevant experience and applicable skill‑based training may be considered.
• Must complete an acceptable Criminal Record Search report.
• Must hold a current Standard First Aid and CPR certificate.
• A current Crisis Prevention Institute certificate or non‑violent crisis intervention training is an asset.
• Lived experience is invaluable; living in the community in which you work is valued. HAS strives to hire staff who reflect the people we serve.
• Food safe certification.
• Valid B.C. driver’s licence and access to a vehicle.
• Mental Health First Aid is an asset.
• Harm reduction and Naloxone training.
• An educational background in social work or equivalent is an asset.

Personal Attributes

• Flexible – able to adapt to an ever‑changing environment and open to taking on diverse tasks whenever needed.
• A quick thinker who can make decisions without agonizing and who knows when to reach out to others for guidance and support.
• Committed to working with people struggling with substance use and comfortable working in a harm‑reduction environment.
• Strong consultative and relationship‑building skills.
• Embraces the mission, vision, values and philosophy of Hogan’s Alley Society.
• Ability to de‑escalate conflict and crisis situations.
• Put residents first and work to include them in all decisions that affect their lives.
• Well‑developed understanding of and commitment to anti‑oppression work and intersectionality.
• Committed to working with residents who may be struggling with substance use, brain trauma, cognitive impairment, and/or mental illness.
• Comfortable working within a harm‑reduction environment; understands that abstinence is one option for those struggling with substance use.
• Sound knowledge and understanding of the risks associated with programs that serve vulnerable populations.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends.
• Understanding of trauma‐informed care and support.