QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

• An undergraduate degree or diploma in a human services field; an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Demonstrated experience in crisis assessment, intervention, and de-escalation in high-pressure or fast-paced environments.
• Experience working with individuals with complex needs, including homelessness, mental health concerns, substance use, and/or domestic violence.
• Knowledge and experience in delivering housing-focused services and navigating homelessness support systems.
• Experience working both independently and collaboratively in dynamic environments with competing priorities.
• Strong understanding of community resources within and beyond the homeless-serving system.
• Knowledge of Indigenous cultures and experience supporting Indigenous individuals and communities, including navigating relevant social services.
• Familiarity with trauma-informed and harm-reduction practices is an asset.

SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to adapt communication style to diverse individuals and situations.
• Effective organizational and problem-solving skills; strong attention to detail, accuracy, and the ability to manage time and priorities effectively.
• Flexibility in responding to unexpected challenges, including technology issues, participant needs, or operational changes.
• Ability to quickly assess situations and make informed decisions in crisis or high-stress scenarios.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to learn and navigate databases or case management software (e.g., HMIS).
• Ability to maintain professionalism and composure while supporting individuals in distress or exhibiting challenging behaviors.

PRIMARY DUTIES

This is not an exhaustive list of duties, but meant to give you a sense of what you’ll be doing on a regular basis. Other related duties may be required.

Participant Engagement and Community Space Support

• Warmly greet and engage individuals accessing the Day Space, including frequent visitors who may not yet be connected to supports.
• Foster a safe, welcoming environment by monitoring activity, addressing risks, and applying safety procedures as needed.
• Support respectful use of the space by managing expectations around wait times and service availability.
• Provide crisis support and de-escalation using trauma-informed approaches and Distress Centre crisis intervention practices.
• Respond effectively to drug poisoning incidents in or near the space by following established protocols and leading or assisting in overdose response.
• Contribute to the upkeep of the space by helping maintain cleanliness, organization, and access to basic needs supplies.

System Navigator & Resource Specialist

• Assess participant needs through conversation and informal screening, providing timely information and connections to services.
• Assist with referrals, applications, and navigation of housing, income support, health, and other community resources to support wellness.
• Build rapport with frequent visitors, encouraging engagement and connection to supports over time.
• Document participant interactions and updates in the HMIS database, ensuring informed consent and adherence to data-sharing policies.
• Provide individualized support and advocacy to reduce barriers and help participants achieve stability and wellness goals.
• Coordinate care for participants engaging with multiple services in the space to ensure a cohesive experience.
• Apply strong knowledge of community resources to guide participants in accessing the most appropriate supports.

General Shared Responsibilities

• Collaborate with site staff, DCC staff, and volunteers at the Day Space in Tuscany to ensure a welcoming, respectful, and supportive environment for all participants.
• Participate in community engagement activities and events that enhance participant experience and strengthen positive community connections.
• Contribute to a team-oriented approach by sharing tasks, promoting open communication, and fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity.
• Attend team meetings, training, and collaborative planning sessions to support continuous learning and service improvement.