Community Development Worker -Children & Youth (WMSH1349)

YWCA Toronto•Toronto, ON

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Community Development Worker – Children and Youth works within a collaborative team to provide meaningful and relevant services within a theoretical feminist framework that includes a working knowledge of the dynamics and effects of trauma and oppression. They work in conjunction with women and children to establish a plan which will facilitate a safe and effective path to independence. The Community Development Worker– Children and Youth is responsible for providing a full range of services which include crisis counseling and the development, implementation and evaluation of workshops, activities and programs for children and youth. The Women's Shelter is a 33-bed emergency shelter supporting women and gender-diverse people, with or without dependents, who are fleeing violence. The program includes a Transitional Housing and Support Program that offers up to two years of post-shelter support to promote safety, stability, and long-term housing outcomes. Our shelters operate 24/7 and are grounded in feminist principles, trauma-informed and strengths-based care, harm reduction, anti-oppressive practice, transparency, and a spirit of inclusion. In addition to shelter accommodation, all programs provide nutritious and culturally diverse food, access to health care, crisis intervention, supportive counselling, individualized service planning, clinical and recreational programming, as well as opportunities to engage in advocacy.

Requirements

In-depth knowledge of an academic discipline normally acquired through completion of an undergraduate degree specializing in child development, for example BSW or BECE. An analytical framework that identifies clients' relation to social systems and the demonstrated practical application of this framework (Case for equivalency will be considered)
1-3 years’ experience in programming, community development work and group work with clients at risk including experience and training working with children of various age groups traumatized by violence
Ability to engage children and youth in activities that promote social inclusion, skill building and community building
Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of abuse/violence against women and children
Demonstrated experience in the development, implementation and evaluation of workshops and groups
Counseling approach that is flexible, de-escalates tension, teaches conflict resolution and is focused on success
Ability to deliver culturally sensitive services in a multicultural environment
Ability to work with an anti-oppression and feminist framework
Demonstrated ability to work under pressure
Ability to handle crisis situations effectively both in person and by telephone
Strong interpersonal skills
Good written and excellent verbal communication skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, e-mail and the internet
Ability to maintain a positive approach and a professional manner at all times

Nice To Haves

Knowledge and understanding of trauma, mental health issues, advocacy, child development and parenting, employment and/or addictions issues would be an asset
Knowledge of a second language an asset

Responsibilities

Supports children, youth and families to build leadership by developing and participating in community activities
Works in conjunction with the Shelter Support Worker – Parent and Child Support Worker to address the issue of woman abuse and its impact on children
Interviews, conducts preliminary assessments and identifies children’s needs and goals
Provides information and referrals as required; liaises with professionals and agencies in the community to facilitate the access to services as required by the children and youth
Develops safety and departure plans for children
Works with children and youth individually and/or in groups to develop improved social and living skills by assisting them to: set goals, follow through on plans, discuss alternatives and make choices and decisions
Develops, implements and evaluates group and other activities for children and youth exposed to woman and child abuse.
Contributes specialized knowledge and expertise to team members to develop meaningful and relevant services for women and their children
Attends regular staff meetings, staff training sessions and case meetings as required
Shares on-call duties
Regular evening and weekend work required

Benefits

Comprehensive Medical, Vision, and Dental Coverage
Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability Benefit
Multi-Sector Pension Plan: Employer’s contribution of 5.75% and Employee Contribution of 3.25%
20 Vacation Days
1.5 Days Per Month Sick Leave
12 Paid Holidays
Health Promotional Days
4 Float Days
Child Care Benefits
Maternity/Parental Leave Supplementary Employment Benefits
Educational/Sabbatical Leave
Financial Assistance for Professional Development