Youth Worker - Part-time
About The Position
NOVA aims to offer individuals aged 16 - 24 experiencing homelessness a safe, supported living environment as they develop the skills to make positive lifestyle choices and live independent lives in the community. NOVA provides a low-barrier housing solution to youth who may have been street-involved, and who may be struggling with drugs, alcohol, isolation and/or mental health issues. The program operates primarily from the Harm Reduction and Housing First philosophies. Youth Workers is a part-time role that provides ongoing day-to-day support to the youth residing at NOVA. Using positive role modeling and effective communication skills, the Part-Time Youth Workers assist NOVA youth in increasing their skills toward independence.
Requirements
- Working towards a diploma in human services or a related field
- A minimum of 6 months’ experience working with youth
- Knowledge of harm reduction, addictions, and strength-based philosophy
- Able to work within a team and effectively deal with crisis situations
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Valid First Aid and CPR certification as required
- Criminal Record Check and Child Intervention Check; a criminal record will not disqualify you from employment with us; we evaluate each application individually
- The successful candidate must be able to work shift work (7:00am – 3:00pm, 3:00pm – 11:00pm and 11:00pm – 7:00am) that includes evenings and weekends and be available for a minimum of 4 shifts per month.
- Weekend and Holiday availability is essential.
- The position requires frequent standing, walking up and down stairs, and occasional lifting.
Responsibilities
- Completion of accurate written daily documentation (log book entries, contact notes, incident reports, medication book entries)
- Completion of referral and REST intake documentation
- Deliver services in a client-centered, strength-based approach consistent with NOVA philosophy
- Adapt services to meet the needs of diverse populations as per unit policy
- Build collaborative relationships with youth
- Role model life skills, social skills, communication skills and conflict resolution
- Support youth to achieve goals as defined on their individual goal plans
- Encourage youth to engage in healthy lifestyle alternatives
- Transparently address current challenges with the youth
- Role model and assist the youth with self-advocacy
- Deliver services in accordance with unit and agency policies and procedures
- Ensure youth are aware of and understand House rules and respond accordingly
- Maintain a safe, secure environment
- Communicate pertinent information to the supervisor and other staff as necessary
- Ensure maintenance and cleanliness of unit and property
- Liaise with guardians, program partners and other professionals
- Maintain positive relationships with community members (neighbors, visitors etc.) and report significant challenges/incidents to supervisor immediately
- Contribute to a positive culture by assisting and supporting colleagues as needed and encourage and teach others about the unit’s operations
- Practice agency mission, vision, values and guiding principles
- Maintain positive, professional working relationships with colleagues
- Participate in unit staff meetings
- Participate in core agency and additional ongoing training opportunities as directed and approved
- As directed by supervisor
Benefits
- Part Time Health Spending Account (based on hours worked)
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
