COMMUNITY HOMES FOR CHILDREN - Direct Support Worker (Part-Time)

New Directions for Children, Youth, Adults, and Families•Winnipeg, MB

1d•CA$17 - CA$23•Onsite

About The Position

New Directions is a social service agency offering a wide range of resources and services that foster people’s hopes and dreams in their communities. Child Home Services (CHS) offers a range of home supports to children, youth, and families who are dealing with challenges related to the experience of trauma and/or living with a disability. Our community-based resources are designed to support connection with family and community, a sense of belonging, and provide opportunities to engage in a meaningful life. We are seeking Direct Support Workers for specialized residential settings serving youth ages 12–17. In this role, the mission is empowerment through intentional skill-building and advocacy. We provide stabilization for youth who may be dealing with significant mental health concerns or involvement with the justice system through predictable structures, restorative justice principles, and positive behavior support. You aren't just a caregiver—you are a Life Skills Coach and Advocate. You will work within a trauma-informed environment to help youth move from crisis to self-sufficiency, transforming daily routines into opportunities for growth, healing, and future independence.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent.
Minimum two (2) years’ experience working with youth (ages 12-17) facing mental health challenges, justice involvement, addictions, homelessness, and exploitation.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Demonstrated understanding of Trauma Informed Care, the Youth Criminal Justice Act, and developmental milestones for adolescents.
A valid Class 5 driver’s license is a requirement for this position.

Nice To Haves

Post-secondary education in the area(s) of Youth Care Worker, and/or Mental Health.
Strong understanding of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), and FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) and a commitment to person-led care, routine structure and adaptive communication.
ASIST, Mental Health Training, or Health Care Aide certification.
Strong awareness of Indigenous cultures, history, and the unique needs of Indigenous communities.
American Sign Language (ASL) skills preferred; willingness to learn and develop communication skills required.

Responsibilities

Actively teach and model life skills, including meal planning, basic cooking, grocery shopping, budgeting, and household maintenance.
Coach youth on how to safely access community resources, use public transit, and manage medical or legal appointments.
Facilitate and encourage educational and vocational activities that prepare youth for future employment, volunteering, or post-secondary transitions.
Accompany and/or transport individuals to legal appointments, shopping, school, employment or leisure activities.
Utilize basic counselling and conflict resolution skills to help youth navigate social dynamics and emotional regulation.
Act as a liaison with social workers, lawyers, teachers, and community partners to ensure the youth’s developmental goals are met.
Assist youth in meeting conditions of probation or court mandates, focusing on restorative practices and accountability.
Provide a "secure base" through positive behavior support, crisis intervention, and medication administration, ensuring a safe environment for learning to occur.
Utilize trauma-informed intervention to defuse aggressive situations, focusing on de-escalation strategies that protect the individual’s safety and foster long-term self-regulation skills.
Actively engage in harm reduction approaches.
Maintain health and safety standards through medication administration and accurate documentation.
Assist with personal care routines and medical needs with a focus on maintaining the individual’s dignity and comfort.