QUALIFICATIONS:

• Social Service Worker Diploma or equivalent with relevant practicum experience.
• Minimum of one (1) year full time experience providing housing services to refugee claimants and newcomers.
• Demonstrated experience providing services to families, refugee claimants, and newcomers.
• The ability to speak a second language is an asset. Preference will be given to those who speak Yoruba and Igbo.
• Minimum 9 months case management experience
• Experience working with landlords and demonstrated knowledge of various supportive housing programs
• Knowledge of specific issues facing people fleeing war
• Knowledge of settlement and housing related services and resources, with an emphasis on the services and resources that exist within York Region and the Greater Toronto Area.
• Strong skills in landlord recruitment and mediation, and client advocacy. Knowledge of Internet, Email and Windows software e.g. Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrated experience in data-entry, documentation and reporting.
• Excellent communication, organization and coordination skills.
• Possession of a valid First Aid/CPR training certificate is required.
• Required to provide a valid Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS) Police check. The VSS must have been completed within the last 6 months.
• Must be able to travel within the GTA to multiple locations using public transportation. Access to a vehicle is considered an asset.
• Must be fully vaccinated or be exempt from vaccination on human rights grounds. COSTI reserves the right to require information establishing the validity of the exemption.

• Conducts housing search in and outside of York Region for newcomer individuals and families.
• Conducts intake and needs assessments and provides case management services
• If needed escorts clients to housing appointments and advocates on their behalf.
• Secures appropriate and affordable housing for clients.
• Advocates on behalf of clients in negotiating and finalizing housing leases.
• Recruits housing providers and maintains a housing data bank/registry of housing providers.
• Provides crisis support and intervention as required.
• Mentoring volunteers to assist with housing search and escorting of clients.
• Conducts housing orientation sessions to ensure that client understands rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords.
• Liaises and consults with other professionals and organizations.
• Provides information and referrals to community & social service agencies for additional support.
• Keep administrative records of services and activities, prepare necessary reports and input data using COSTI and HIFIS databases.
• Perform other duties as required.