POSITION SUMMARY:

The Child and Youth Client Advocate uses a client-centered approach to support children and youth who are experiencing abuse and/or homelessness. The Child and Youth Client Advocate will provide trauma-informed and anti-racist anti-oppressive services.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A degree or diploma in Child & Youth Worker, Social Services Worker, Assaulted Women & Children Counsellor/Advocate diploma, Social Work or related program in a post-secondary institution
• Minimum two (2) years of work experience in any of the following fields: gender-based violence, child development and mental health, counselling or other social services supporting vulnerable women and children
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and take initiative
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Exemplifies excellent skills in working with vulnerable people
• Organized, with good communication skills, both verbal and written
• Ability to work independently and within a team setting
• Committed to upholding the organization’s mission, values and standards
• Demonstrated understanding around importance of confidentiality

REQUIREMENTS:

• Police Vulnerable Sector Check
• Two-Step Tuberculosis Skin Test

• Assist in providing support and advocacy to children and youth in the shelter
• Plan and assist in the facilitation of recreational activities to suit the needs of the program; this includes ongoing assistance with the children’s playroom
• Ensure the overall safety and security of the shelter is maintained
• Participate in Emergency Residential Child and Youth and Child Witness Program (LEAF) planning as required, including program development, promotion and evaluation
• Immediately report any child protection concerns to the Manager, Residential Programming or Director, Women’s Services
• Assist staff in the daily maintenance of the program. This may include, but is not limited to, such things as: cleaning the playroom, providing childcare while mothers attend meetings, and identifying maintenance and security needs
• Adhere to a strict policy of confidentiality
• Follow Mission Services workplace health and safety policies and procedures at all times and identify any health and safety concerns and report to management
• Other duties as required to ensure the continuation of person-centered service to residents