Homelessness Outreach Worker Full-time Job

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Coordinated Access and Assessment Manager, the Homelessness Outreach Worker, connects with people experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless in community locations. He/She/They aides and assists individuals to navigate housing and related support system(s). The incumbent collaborates and partners with shelters and supportive housing providers, and homelessness service agencies to ensure an integrated system of supports and services. As a core member of a multidisciplinary regional homelessness and encampment response team (HEART), the position supports communities to prevent, minimize and or resolve encampments and respond to homelessness through coordination and rapid support for individuals sheltering outdoors.  

CANDIDATE PROFILE

The successful candidate will have the following:

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• High School diploma plus completion of post-secondary courses in social housing, community development, mental health, trauma counselling and or other relevant discipline
• Considerable progressive experience in working with individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty on account of physical, mental, or psychological disability, and or, substance use challenges.
• Sound experience in liaising with government, private and community-based housing providers and working with individuals from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.
• Some experience with crisis management and or de-escalation techniques.
• Or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience acceptable to the employer. 
• Tier 4 Criminal Record Check Required.

 KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Considerable knowledge of causal factors of homelessness, mental illness and or addiction. 
• Sound understanding of the importance of cultural and community connections in supporting individuals to improve well-being, exit homelessness and thrive in housing. 
• Good understanding or lived experience of the impacts of residential schools, generational trauma and or abuse.
• Sound knowledge of government, private and community-based housing service providers.
• Good de-escalation, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills to manage evolving situations.
• Good understanding of traditional, cultural and or holistic wellness and healing initiatives
• Exceptional verbal and written communications skills.
• Proficient in computer applications and software including MS Office tools. 
• Demonstrated ability to empathize when engaging with individuals from diverse socio economic and cultural backgrounds, a high degree of confidentiality and sensitivity.
• Demonstrated ability to partner, curious perspective when engaging with a wide array of community partners, including advocates, volunteers, local business owners, neighbours, and community members. 
• Ability to develop strong partnerships with services providers and community partners. 
• Ability to learn, understand and update BC Housing mandate, programs, and services. 
• Ability to develop and foster trusting relationships with people facing homelessness and multiple barriers. 
• Ability to travel and work periodic evenings and weekends; transportation arrangements must meet the operational requirements of the position. Valid Class 5 BC driver’s license and access to a vehicle. 
• Please Note: Successful applicant(s) are subject to a satisfactory criminal record search and are required to maintain Security Clearance throughout their employment. 
• Due to the nature of this role, a valid class 5 driver's license and satisfactory driving record is required.
• Due to the nature of this role, access to a reliable vehicle will be required.

BC Housing is a provincial Crown Corporation that develops, manages and administers a wide range of subsidized housing options for those most in need across the province to address critical gaps across the housing continuum ranging from emergency shelter through to rent assistance in the private market and affordable home ownership. Share in the rewards of working with an organization that offers challenging work and competitive compensation and supports the growth and development of its people.
Our mission is to provide access to safe, quality, accessible, and affordable housing options. We do this to promote strong, inclusive communities where people can thrive.
BC Housing offers competitive salaries and an excellent benefits package. But a job is more than a pay cheque. We also offer our staff the opportunity to work together to make a difference. When employees go home at the end of the day, they experience the satisfaction of knowing theyve helped provide safe, affordable housing for British Columbians. And while theyre here, employees can take advantage of many opportunities:
In-house training, and training at other institutions, for courses related to employees current positions or to prepare them for advancement within BC Housing.
Wellness programs including physical fitness, programs to help employees quit smoking, free flu shots, mental health resources, and lunch-and-learn lectures and seminars.
Recognition programs including long-term service awards, idea recognition and outstanding performance awards.
Livegreen incentives include an employee transit pass program, and other initiatives that encourage alternative, sustainable transportation (even a bike purchase program!).
An active Social Club that organizes special events like seasonal parties and arranges group discounts to other events.
Participation in community and charitable events.