Peer Support Worker - Non-Profit Homes - Toronto - Part Time - Jobs in Richmond

Job Description

Who We AreThe work of Good Shepherd is based on a fundamental belief in providing hope and restoring dignity to the most vulnerable members of our community. Our services include emergency food transitional housing and education for homeless and street-involved youth; hospice palliative care; community mental health programs; and supportive housing programs. We are committed to integrating Harm Reduction practices into our programs and to prioritizing the rights, dignity, and choices of those who use substances. By integrating a Harm Reduction framework at Good Shepherd, we can decrease barriers to service and better support some of our community #39;s most marginalized members.This opportunity is with our Good Shepherd Non-Profit Homes - TorontoReporting to the Program Manager of Supportive Housing within NPH-Toronto and with support from the Team Lead, the Peer Support Worker enhances the dignity and quality of life tenants/clients, visitors and staff by providing dignified support and education to the individuals who seek our services.How You Will Make an ImpactGood Shepherd Non-Profit Homes is looking for a dedicated individual to take on a vital role that encompasses both leadership and direct service in a supportive housing context.The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong work ethic, leadership qualities, and the ability to model behaviors aligned with the organization #39;s mission, vision, and values. This role demands providing service in a dignified, culturally competent, and respectful manner, consistent with the ethos of Good Shepherd Centres and incorporating an anti-racism/anti-oppression framework.Responsibilities include offering support and understanding to tenants and clients, assisting with their emotional and mental health needs, and helping staff understand these aspects. The candidate will also engage in assisting residents with constructive and therapeutic activities that align with their personal goals, including health, substance use recovery, social, and community support, as well as developing self-care plans and coping techniques.Additionally, the role involves accompanying residents to various meetings and services, providing encouragement and hope within professional boundaries, and engaging in educational activities around personal hygiene, nutrition, life skills, and money management. The ideal candidate will suggest resources with therapeutic value and work collaboratively with mental health and addiction counselors to support residents in safety planning.Facilitating group programs where appropriate is also a key part of this role. The position requires attendance at all staff meetings and trainings, effective communication skills (both written and oral), the ability to compile program statistical information, and the flexibility to perform additional duties as directed.What You #39;ll Bring to Our Team

• Lived experience with mental health, addictions, trauma, homelessness and/or substance use system
• Post secondary education in a related field and/or a combination of education and a few years of experience in a similar position.
• Demonstrated commitment to the mission and values of Availability, Flexibility, Adaptability, Hospitality and Dignity.
• CPR/First Aid certification and WHMIS training.
• Creativity and flexibility in achieving desired outcomes.
• Hospitable in dealings with clients/public / volunteers / staff, and other key stakeholders.
• Available and responsive to the needs of others.
• Respectful and compassionate demeanor.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, computer, interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Must have understanding of the Recovery model, and ability to relate to persons in crisis.
• Must have knowledge and ability to work within a Harm Reduction and Housing First framework
• Knowledge of and experience working with community based agencies and services
• Preference will be given to candidates with training in Peer Support.
• Training in the use of Naloxone, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, ASIST is recommended
• Must have ability to empathize and find strategies to work with persons with a wide range of symptoms and needs.

What We Offer

• Be a part of a caring TEAM THAT SUPPORTS OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
• Support for continuing EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Staff recognition programs along with access to self-care supports and EMPLOYEE / FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM(EAP)
• POSITIVE and ENCOURAGING atmosphere
• Make a difference and provide HOPE

Good Shepherd, a ministry of the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God, is an equal opportunity employer operating within an anti-racist and anti-oppression framework. We strive to establish workplaces that reflect and are enhanced by the rich diversity of the community we serve.Good Shepherd welcomes and encourages applications from all people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. If you need accommodations, please contact Human Resources at 905-528-5877.Good Shepherd has a mandatory verification of COVID-19 vaccination policy. More information on the full policy requirements and accommodation allowances will be provided to those selected for an interview.Job Posted by ApplicantPro