KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Demonstrated high level of understanding of youth development and the issues of housing insecurity.
• Demonstrated high level of understanding in a housing first model and approach.
• Demonstrated skill using anti-oppressive practice (harm reduction, narrative practice, a client-directed approach, and a social justice perspective).
• Knowledge of mental health issues, substance abuse and crisis intervention.
• Demonstrate knowledge of trusteeship programs and effective money management.
• Demonstrated exceptional level of interpersonal, communication, youth service and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build appropriate and healthy rapport with at-risk and unhoused youth.
• Extensive knowledge of community resources and the social service delivery system.
• Must have valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and using the Internet.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor of Social Work, or an undergraduate degree and Human Services diploma or other relevant undergraduate degree.
• Registration or Candidacy for Registration, certification, or membership of a related professional body (if applicable).
• At least five years of experience working with at-risk and unhoused youth providing case management and advocacy.
• Non-violent crisis intervention (CPI), suicide intervention (ASIST), standard first aid or a commitment to secure those requirements within six months of being hired. These trainings are also offered in-house for free.
• Experience in program development.
• Experience working for a walk-in centre, or a non-profit organization is an asset.

• Work in accordance with Phoenix’s policies, procedures, and framework of practice.
• Work with youth and other Phoenix programs to create effective housing plans that address the issues of those who experience housing insecurity.
• Work in collaboration with staff of Phoenix Centre for Youth, especially the other Housing Support Worker and the Trusteeship Worker, and Phoenix Youth Shelter to assist youth in the creation of housing/goal planning.
• Provide support for a caseload of approximately 20-25 youth within the housing program.
• Liaise and develop relationships with landlords and property managers within HRM.
• Develop a list of viable housing stock and options for youth transitioning to independence within this housing program.
• Help youth move into or out of their apartments. This involves moving their belongings including furniture and often necessitates a full cleaning of the apartment.
• Provide for youth: intake, assessment and referral services, assistance in accessing resources, crisis intervention and eviction prevention services, outreach, mediation for youth and their families in relation to the Housing Support program.
• Liaise with other agencies on behalf of youth and programs and participate in community committees, projects, or activities as appropriate.
• Work in collaboration with other Housing Support Workers within HRM.
• Advocate with community agencies to ensure that the needs, barriers, and strengths of youth who are at-risk and unhoused are addressed.
• Conduct public education presentations about the Agency and the issues of unhoused youth.
• Complete and maintain records and assessments, ensuring that confidentiality is upheld.
• Compile statistics and data for youth accessing housing supports that will assist with the outcomes and evaluation of this housing initiative.
• Commit to the development of the Agency and participate in internal committees, projects, and activities.
• Assist in program and service development to ensure that quality, effective and youth-centered programs, and services are delivered.
• Provide a supportive environment and foster a therapeutic milieu that promotes youth empowerment.