Street Outreach Worker (Keele & Sheppard)

A registered non-profit social service organization based on the Jewish ethics of justice, kindness, and responsibility is looking for someone to be the face of the organization to their clients who are facing homelessness and poverty.

Our employer delivers programs that break down barriers, restore human dignity, foster capacity-building, and empower marginalized individuals to navigate socio economic barriers and create real change in their lives. The outreach team performs life-saving work through the provision of essential supplies, support, and referrals for our clients.

Job Description:

The outreach van program operates 7 days per week (Monday-Saturday 2pm-12am and 1 daytime shift Sundays 10am – 8:00pm) in downtown Toronto and Scarborough.

The Outreach Worker works four 10-hour shifts per week, in which they facilitate the distribution of essential supplies such as food, coffee, clothing, hygiene products, and harm reduction supplies to individuals experiencing homelessness.

The Outreach Worker also provides supportive services and referrals to other community organizations as needed. Most importantly, the Outreach Worker is a consistent and reliable source of support and caring for individuals in our society who need it most.

As this program is also a hands-on volunteer opportunity in which each shift includes the participation of 3-4 volunteers, including youth, the Outreach Worker also has the unique opportunity to educate and engage community members about the issues of homelessness, raising awareness and a sense of agency amongst the general community.

• Post-secondary education in social services or related field

• Demonstrated experience with an understanding of homelessness, marginalized populations, including those experiencing mental illness and addictions

• Demonstrated experience in crisis intervention and services

• Thorough understanding of harm reduction practices

• Knowledge of community/social services, particularly in areas of mental health, corrections, housing and health, in order to do appropriate referrals

• Proactive and “hands on” approach to meet program objectives and accomplish assigned tasks and projects with minimal supervision

• Hold a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record

• Ability to carry up to 25 lbs. to manage the supplies and clothing bins

• Ability to work a flexible schedule (evenings and weekends on a rotating schedule)

The employer values hard work, but also values recognition, wellness, and taking care of each other. In addition to a competitive salary, their employees are offered full group health benefits including dental coverage, a Wellness Spending Account allowance, Employee Assistance Program, generous vacation, and sick time off policies, in addition to office closures for all statutory and Jewish holidays. They provide a warm, supportive, fun, and progressive place of work.