Full Time Community & Family Services Worker

The Community and Family Services Worker assists individuals and families who are seeking aid and assistance from, or have been referred to, The Salvation Army. this position also provides support to the food bank program and other programs provided by the community and family services.

Client Services and Program

• Conduct intake interviews and screen clients for emergency assistance including food, clothing, and household needs (if on hand)
• Refer clients to Corps Officer for pastoral assistance
• Maintain accurate, confidential records of client information on The Salvation Army’s computer system while maintaining confidentiality and providing statistical reports
• Maintain food bank stock, cleanliness, tidiness, and organization of food bank area
• May direct and supervise volunteers which includes recruitment, selection, orientation, and training of volunteers working in reception, food bank and other family service functions
• Research and maintain information list of services provided by external agencies
• Client referral to other community resources where appropriate
• Assist in organization of seasonal or special programs i.e., Christmas Hamper Program, Drop-in centre, and Community Kitchen, etc.
• Actively promote Yorkwoods Community Church and Community & Family Services programs to food bank clients
• Work with other Family Services staff to maintain, promote and improve the profile of The Salvation Army Yorkwoods. Marie Community Church and Community & Family Services programs within the community

Financial and Administration

• Maximize utilization of all computerized management programs i.e. Link2Feed and/or external programs as necessary
• Enter and maintain personal and assistance data in an accurate and timely manner in Link2Feed (for Ontario Food Bank Association) while maintaining confidentiality
• Maintain written records, logs of activities, including activity reports, and statistical information keeping Salvation Army computer programs (such as Link2Feed) updated

Health and Safety

• Seek out continual education and resources for all areas of responsibilities, specifically regarding COVID-19 requirements as per the local Health Unit
• Ensure the safety and comfort of the ministry unit by maintaining cleanliness and food safety etc. · Ensure compliance of Ontario Health & Safety Act as well as The Salvation Army’s health and safety policies and procedures. o Update records & requirements as needed o Identify safety issues and report to the Community Services Officer
• Record fridge and freezer temperatures, report unexplained discrepancies to Corps Officer
• Health & Safety orientation of new volunteers

Perform other duties as required

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• This is a permanent full-time position based on 37.5 hours per week
• Ability to lift/move 20 lb./10 kilos.
• Schedule may vary according to requirements of responsibilities, with occasional evening and weekend work.
• The Supervisor will set the hours of work and work schedule
• The working conditions are such that in order to meet the operational needs of the job some flexibility is required as it relates to hours of work
• Working environment is typically in the office in generally agreeable conditions
• This job requires reaching, bending, and stooping frequently, working in a standing position
• Some travel may be required with this position

Normal hours of work – 37.5 hours per week. Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and includes a ½ -hour unpaid meal break.

Education, Qualifications and Certifications:

• Completion of a Community College Diploma, Social Service Worker, counselling, or equivalent in a related field of study
• Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered

Experience and Skilled Knowledge Requirements

• Minimum of two (2) years of prior related experience working with multi-barriered persons, individuals with mental health issues and a variety of social service programs
• Knowledge of community-based resources and experience networking with government and social service agencies
• Valid Ontario Class “G” Driver’s License, own vehicle, and insurance, provide an original copy of current driver’s abstract for review and verification that it satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion, is required

Skills and Capabilities:

• Treat the property of The Salvation Army with due care and caution
• Ability to maintain information in confidence and exercise good judgement
• Ability to work independently and participate as an active and responsible team member in a cooperative team environment
• Represent the organization in a positive, professional, and engaging manner
• Proficiency in all Microsoft Office products is required – i.e., Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, etc.
• Exhibit good listening skills, have strong oral/written communication skills and respect authority
• Excellent interpersonal skills, integrity, and adaptability
• Ability to use tact and diplomacy when dealing with the public, both in person and on the telephone
• Lead by example, by demonstrating a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn and be flexible in the face of change
• Adaptable, proactive, a self-starter and the ability to work independently
• Ability to learn, adapt, and utilize technology and processes quickly
• Ability to prioritize, organize and manage multiple tasks; the ability to complete assignments and meet deadlines with minimal supervision
• Ability and willingness to develop an understanding and support for the mission and purpose of The Salvation Army in Canada and its implications as related to position responsibilities
• Ability and willingness to provide a valid Safe Food Handlers Certification
• First Aid/CPR certification would be an asset

Successful candidates will be required to provide a satisfactory Criminal Record Check and/or Vulnerable Sector Screening.

The Salvation Army offers accommodation for applicants with disabilities in its recruitment process.  If you are contacted to participate in an interview or screening process, please advise us if you require accommodation.

We thank all applicants, however, only those candidates to be interviewed will be contacted.

You must advise your managing supervisor of your intentions prior to submitting your application.