Outreach Worker

Position Overview

The Community Outreach Worker works with street-involved people and is responsible for initiating contact, developing rapport, providing support, prevention education, advocacy, case management, referral and some directly observed treatment within a public health and harm reduction service model. Services are provided through street walks, mobile van outreach, and at fixed sites and where people live.

Experience

• Minimum two years working with marginalized populations including but not limited to street youth, sex trade workers, solvent, crack/inhalation and injection drug users.
• Counselling background preferred, especially experience with youth and in the areas of mental health, addictions, abuse, and sexual health.
• Extensive personal and/or professional experience working with street-involved populations, including but not limited to street youth, sex trade workers, solvent, crack/inhalation and injection drug users preferred.

Education (Degree/Diploma/Certificate)

• Recognized post-secondary certificate and/or Diploma in a health services or social sciences field required.
• First Aid training preferred.

Certification/Licensure/Registration

• Valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle required.

Qualifications and Skills

• Knowledge of harm reduction, street issues, substance use, sexually transmitted and blood borne infections and tuberculosis required.
• Able to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team using strong communication skills and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of immigrant and Indigenous issues and cultures preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Physically capable of performing the duties of the position under varying weather and environmental conditions.
• This position requires significant lifting of a variety of supplies, the ability to move easily within the confines of a van, as well as the ability to climb stairs in buildings without elevators.
• Able to spend long periods in a vehicle or walking.
• Must be able to work weekend and evening shifts.