Indigenous Outreach Worker - TFT

Durham Community Health Centre•Oshawa, ON

66d

About The Position

The Indigenous Outreach position and initiative is the result of an innovative partnership between Miwizii Biik Housing Development Corporation and Durham Community Health Centre. The (MBDC) was established in 2004 by Miwizii Biik Aboriginal Employment and Training, with a focus on training and affordable housing. The Indigenous Outreach Worker position will provide culturally competent services across Durham Region with vulnerable and street-involved First Nation, Métis and Inuit individuals who may be at risk or have contracted Covid-19. The primary focus of this position is to respond to the housing/health/safety needs of individuals who may be negatively impacted by Covid-19. The Outreach Worker assists clients using a wholistic approach focused on wellness and safety, decreasing risks and challenges facing the Indigenous Community as well as rebuilding and attending to practical needs (ie. shelter, food insecurity, transportation, housing subsidy and isolation issues). This position coordinates and organizes services for individuals, offers support to people that are vulnerable and living on the street or are in compromised housing arrangements. This position will coordinate, deliver support, provide documentation to financial services for accounting and will work closely with surrounding Indigenous support agencies. The Outreach Worker will serve as a bridge to internal and external agencies/resources. In addition, the Outreach Worker will provide supports and arrange transportation to essential appointments. The Indigenous Outreach Worker will collaborate within an interdisciplinary team of health professionals across the community network that influence the health environment targeted to Indigenous clients, as well as within the Agency’s team structure, in support of goals that align with the response to supporting Indigenous Peoples.

Requirements

Completion of a formal 2-year post-Secondary program at a Community College (Health/Social Services).
Minimum 1-year related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
Broad knowledge of Indigenous issues, history, culture and tradition
Experience providing support services
Current knowledge of community programs, services and resources
Highly organized and compassionate
Understanding and willingness to practice Covid-19 safety protocols
Available to work a flexible schedule
Valid driver’s license is required, and access to a reliable vehicle
Full vaccination against COVID-19 is mandatory for this position (DCHC will however adhere to its duty to accommodate those who are unable to be fully vaccinated for a reason related to a human right protected ground).

Responsibilities

Provide a range of Outreach support services that promote wholistic wellbeing for those with experiencing homelessness, at risk of homeless or in a crisis situation.
Provide financial aid to those needing short term financial support for personal services such as prescription medication costs, physiotherapy services, transportation, food vouchers, etc.
Provide a range of opportunities for clients to learn daily life and living skills, while increasing their sense of community and belonging and connection to culture and traditions as necessary.
Provide comprehensive culturally appropriate resources and culturally relevant service plans.
Educate clients about their tenant rights and responsibilities.
Contribute to the coordination, planning and enhancement of local services, including those from Indigenous agencies and partners.
Support the implementation of realistic and culturally relevant goals and objectives through regular community and home visits.
Act as an advocate on clients’ behalf
Access and utilize community resources for clients.
Keep detailed client records to provide quality care.
Coordinate and submit expense claims to financial services.
Participate in events, workshops/orientations for clients and community.
Coordinate, support and facilitate Indigenous based programming.
Document within DCHC’s EMR, information regarding outreach contacts.
Complete Incident Reports as required.
Follow policies and standards regarding confidentiality and documentation.
Ensure all necessary reports are completed accurately and in a timely manner.
Attend relevant team meetings and planning activities.
Participate in quality improvement and evaluation activities.
Work with the health and safety guidelines provided by the agency, which includes annual mandatory training requirements.