Reports To: Director of Health and Recovery Services and Director of ASK Works
Term: 12 (twelve) weeks starting ASAP. End date to be determined based on starting date.
Hours: 20 hours per week (flexible times between Monday-Friday 8:30-4:30pm)
Program: ASK Works and United Way BC Work Experience Opportunities Grant
Program Requirement: Eligible if receiving or qualified for*:
§ BC Employment Assistance (BCEA)
§ Disability Assistance, Persons with Disabilities (PWD) or Persons with Persistent Multiple Barriers (PPMB)
§ Hardship Assistance
§ Indigenous assistance through Treaty First Nations or First Nation Administering Authorities

§ Indigenous people receiving equivalent federal assistance, can participate in work experience projects that occur only on Indigenous reserves or Treaty Lands

• Participants are required to demonstrate their eligibility (i.e. proof of deposit, letter, statement, etc.) as we recognize that each participant’s circumstances are unique.

Work Experience Stipend: $300/wk
ASK Works is a division of the ASK Wellness Society that provides opportunities to individuals to achieve connection, dignity and purpose through meaningful employment.

POSITION SUMMARY:

In accordance with the established vision, mission, focus and values of the ASK Wellness Society, the Peer will provide one-on-one and group support for individuals who self-identify as having challenges related to their mental health and/or substance use (MHSU). Peer will work alongside clients/peers as they develop a wide range of life skills and work towards meeting their self-identified goals related to their health and wellness, income and finances, community connections and housing. Holding expert knowledge of local resources, Peers assist clients/peers to navigate barriers and gain access to these systems of support. Peers represent clients/peers as formal advocates, and provide person-centered, strength-based and recovery-oriented care.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

(Note: This is a supported work experience position. Training and mentorship will be provided.)

• Successful completion of SUAP Peer Navigator Program or Interior Health Peer Connect Modules an asset but not required.
• Lived Experience with Substance Use, and /or homelessness.
• Understands or willingness to learn about Indigenous culture, programming, and services.
• Understands or willingness to learn about Harm Reduction strategies and philosophies.
• Active listening, communication, and helping skills an asset.
• Willingness to approach issues with patience and empathy.
• Ability to take initiative and act as a good role model.
• Positive, client/peer-centered attitude.
• Ability to implement effective crisis management techniques an asset.
• Knowledge of community services an asset and the ability to work cooperatively with partner agencies.
• Computer skills: Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel an asset or willingness to learn.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Understands and maintains clientele/peer/worker boundaries.
• Respectful workplace and occupational health and safety training provided.
• Must pass an acceptable criminal record check.
• As Program Participants are allowed to have pets, it is noted that this is a pet-friendly environment.

The ASK Wellness Society is dedicated to promoting diversity/multiculturalism with inclusion as one of our Core Values. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or age.

• Assist clients/peers in obtaining referrals to outside services, such as Service Canada, Interior Health, Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, and local housing organizations and social service organizations (such as CMHA and KAFS).
• Develops and maintains dignifying, meaningful and collaborative relationships with diverse clients/peers who hold a wide range of skills, strengths, needs, goals and abilities.
• One-on-one connections with clients/peers in a trauma-informed and recovery-oriented manner to support them in developing physical, social, emotional and life skills.
• Shares lived-experience perspectives to model hope and recovery for all, and consistently demonstrates effective communication, conflict resolution and advocacy skills.
• Support front-line staff in other tasks as needed.
• Assist to clean external areas such as entranceways, sidewalks and parking lots using brooms, rakes, shovels and other equipment to remove dirt, leaves, snow and other refuse.
• Follow safe work procedures and act safely in the workplace at all times.
• Reporting repairs and replacements when encountered on the job to your supervisor.
• Report any dangerous situations in the workplace to your supervisor.
• Other duties which may or may not be outlined in this job description.