ABOUT US

Kennedy House (KH) is a not-for-profit organization with a long-standing dedication to providing exceptional personalized care for youth in the Greater Toronto Area for over 50 years. KH started with an initial family-like group home in 1971 and currently operates several residential and community-based programs, for marginalized and at-risk youth, including:

• One residential home for young people in care;
• Three homes for youth and young adults living with developmental disabilities;
• A Day Treatment school program for youth struggling in the typical school setting;
• Kennedy House Youth Centre, a secure custody facility for male youth experiencing conflict with the law;
• Bailiff services to safely and securely transport youth experiencing conflict with the law;
• Kennedy House After School Program for children aged 4-13 in underserved communities throughout Scarborough; and
• Kennedy House Youth Shelter, for youth aged 16-24 experiencing homelessness.

KH works with youth to enable them to grow as individuals and contribute as members of the community. This is achieved by providing customized support and building trusting relationships.
To learn more about our organization and the causes we support, we strongly encourage you to visit our website.

POSITION SUMMARY

Kennedy House - Residential Services Division is looking for dynamic, consultative, and results-oriented Developmental Service professionals to join our team in the role of Developmental Service Worker (DSW).The Residential Services Division works in conjunction with child welfare systems and other organizations to provide individualized plans of care and support. We offer a wide range of programs including but not limited to the following: time management, hygiene, transportation, nutrition, self-growth, health & safety, financial management, purchasing and utilization of community resources, job skills & employment preparation and housing & accommodation support.Reporting to the Program Supervisor and indirectly to the Clinical Manager, the incumbent will be responsible for the care and safety of the clients residing in the residence. The DSW will provide direct/ongoing supervision and care to clients, age 12+ who live with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities, supporting their daily living environment while adhering to the organization’s policies and procedures regarding confidentiality, privacy, conflict of interest, and safety expectations.
This is a full-time position located at our Galloway and Manse Road program in Scarborough, Ontario. The DSW will work an average of 40 hours per week and will require being flexible (working a rotational shift that incorporates morning, evening and overnight hours) to best meet the needs of the Program and clients.

EDUCATION:

• A University Degree or College Diploma with a focus on Social Services and/or Behavioral Science is required
• DSW Degree or Diploma is preferred

QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior experience specifically related to working with youth with developmental needs. This may include placement experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of developmental needs (intellectual, emotional, physical, and social) of children and youth
• Current certification in CPR and First Aid Level C is mandatory within 30 days of hire
• Current certification in CPI with autism awareness is recommended
• Valid Class G Driver’s License and clean Driver’s Abstract is required
• Current (within 6 months) Police Check and Vulnerable Sector Search must be provided
• Experience in a not-for-profit government agency is considered an asset
• Broad awareness of other cultures, values, identities and perspectives with a demonstrated ability and interest in working with and for diverse populations
• Ability to work under pressure to meet tight deadlines
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage conflicting and/or competing priorities in an effective and efficient manner
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent assessment, interviewing, and counselling skills
• Excellent clinical skills, including experience and ability to work with and manage difficult behaviour
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with the ability to write legible, clear and concise reports and person-centred plans
• Maintain all required immunizations and vaccines

• Provides case management to youth/individuals on caseload
• Provides appropriate personal and physical care as needed, including but not limited to: hygiene and toiletry, medication administration, and crisis response
• Advocates on behalf of individuals supported and liaise with family, medical, other professionals, and other service providers to address client needs
• Identifies needs of supported youth/individuals and participates in the development and implementation of life plans/plan of care to enhance clients’ capacity to function in all aspects of community living.
• Develops and implements life skills programs based on the Individual Support Plan/ Plan of Care
• Assists in monitoring achievement of personal outcomes
• Provides life skills training and emotional support to clients on a one-on-one or group basis
• Maintains documentation, monitors finances while ensuring an appropriate standard of living
• Provides direction to part-time and student placements staff as required
• Supports individuals to achieve their established goals using a strength-based approach
• Participate, attend and complete all required training meetings and/or learning programs
• Complies with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, applicable legislation, and workplace-specific health and safety policies and procedures
• Performs other duties as required