CEP - Justice Navigator
About The Position
The Justice Navigator provides justice-oriented navigation, advocacy, and education for individuals facing legal challenges. Through coordinated, client-directed care, the role connects individuals to holistic supports, addresses systemic barriers, and supports needs beyond immediate legal issues to promote dignity, stability, and long-term outcomes. Distress Centre Calgary (DCC) delivers the Coordinated Entry Program (CEP), providing intakes, assessment, and referral services that connect participants to housing and other essential supports. CEP staff work collaboratively with partner agencies on system navigation and service delivery, including applications, referrals, and follow-up.
Requirements
- A degree or diploma in Criminal Justice or a related human services field; an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will be considered.
- Demonstrated experience supporting individuals with complex needs, including homelessness, mental health challenges, substance use, and/or domestic violence.
- Exceptional communication and de-escalation skills, with the ability to engage calmly and respectfully with individuals in crisis.
- Experience with risk assessment, safety planning, and justice-related processes.
- Proven ability to assess risk, make informed decisions, and adapt quickly in fast-paced environments.
- Highly collaborative with excellent interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of universal precautions, community resources, and experience navigating homelessness support systems.
- Proven ability to work respectfully and effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences, particularly Indigenous communities, demonstrating strong cultural awareness.
Nice To Haves
- Familiarity with trauma-informed and harm-reduction practices is an asset.
- Familiarity with protection orders, court documentation, or victim statements is an asset.
Responsibilities
- Support and advocate for individuals in the justice and legal system, providing in-person support to reduce fear, trauma, and stigma.
- Connect people to the right supports, including legal, housing, health, and community services, especially for those experiencing violence or exploitation.
- Collaborate with strong community partners (e.g. Calgary Police Services, RCMP, legal and social agencies) to coordinate care and improve outcomes.
- Guide individuals through complex systems, helping them navigate court processes, probation/parole, and related legal matters.
- Build trust and reduce barriers by supporting individuals with stability, finding housing, and strengthening wellness.
- Work collaboratively across SORCe and community partners to provide coordinated, participant-centered support and seamless referrals.
- Create a safe and inclusive environment using de-escalation and engagement strategies to support diverse participant needs.
- Contribute to team and program success through accurate record-keeping, operational support, staff collaboration, and mentoring practicum students.
- Collaborate closely with partnering agencies to align approaches, share responsibilities, and support positive outcomes for participants and shared spaces.
- Build trust within the community by engaging in partner-facing and community activities that foster collaboration and positive relationships.
Benefits
- Generous vacation entitlement
- RRSP matching and Health Spending Account
- Extended health and dental benefits
- Access to on-site gym at Distress Centre (999 8 St SW) at no cost
- Paid development days and a staff development fund
- A supportive, mission-driven workplace where you can grow, take on new challenges, and collaborate with colleagues that value integrity, hard work, and making a meaningful community impact
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
