Ve’ahavta is a registered non-profit social service organization based on the Jewish ethics of justice, kindness, and responsibility. At Ve’ahavta, we deliver programs that break down barriers, restore human dignity, foster capacity-building, and empower marginalized individuals to break the cycle of poverty and create real change in their lives. Further information can be found at www.veahavta.org
JOB DESCRIPTION
The Mobile Jewish Response to Homelessness outreach van program operates 7 times per week (Monday – Saturday 2pm-12am, and Sundays 10am-8pm) in the downtown Toronto area. The Outreach Worker facilitates the distribution of essential supplies such as food, coffee, clothing, hygiene products, and harm reduction supplies to individuals experiencing homelessness. The Outreach Worker also provides supportive services and referrals to other community organizations as needed. As this program is a hands-on volunteer opportunity in which each shift includes the participation of three volunteers, including youth, the Outreach Worker is responsible for an educational component as well.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Client Service and Program Facilitation
- Lead the outreach shift according to all standards of practice as outlined by
Ve’ahavta policies - Provide exemplary and compassionate service to clients experiencing
homelessness in the GTA - Provide support to clients via telephone or in person outside of regular van shifts
(during office/client support days) - Refer clients to services required for capacity-building and poverty relief, such as
healthcare, housing, and counselling supports - Offer harm reduction strategies based on client needs
- Complete shift exchange and case notes
- Track and record all required data related to outreach work and client interactions
- Drive the Ve’ahavta mobile outreach van safely and effectively
- Populate the vehicle with supplies from the Ve’ahavta supply room
- Track inventory of van supplies and order necessary supplies on a regular basis
- Keep vehicle clean, well-maintained, and serviced regularly according to service
schedules - Work with fundraising and communications staff to identify sources of supply
donations for the program - Communicate with other Outreach Workers regarding client issues or needs (for
services, referral or crisis situations)
Volunteer Management
- Supervise a small team of volunteers, ensuring a safe and fulfilling volunteer
experience - Provide thorough orientation and education pertaining to homelessness and
systemic poverty - Foster volunteer relationships and support of Ve’ahavta
Education and Advocacy
- Deliver occasional public education and awareness activities about
homelessness and marginalization for corporate and community groups - Engage in media opportunities as a representative of Ve’ahavta
- Represent Ve’ahavta at community events, conferences and other networking
opportunities - Other duties as specified by Manager of Client Outreach Programs
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Post-secondary education in social services or related field
- Demonstrated experience with an understanding of homelessness, marginalized
populations, including those experiencing mental illness and addictions - Demonstrated experience in crisis intervention and services
- Thorough understanding of harm reduction practices
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Knowledge of community/social services, particularly in areas of mental health,
corrections, housing and health, in order to do appropriate referrals - Experience working with external community service partners and stakeholders
- Proactive and “hands on” approach to meet deadlines and accomplish assigned
tasks and projects with minimal supervision - Adept at working collaboratively, in building a client centered approach to support
other team members and volunteers - Proficient use of Microsoft applications and experience with online reporting
forms and databases are required - Adept at working collaboratively, with team members and volunteers
- Hold a valid driver’s license and at least 5 years driving experience, with a clean
driving record free of convictions and moving violations - Ability to carry up to 25 lbs. to manage the supplies and clothing bins
- Ability to work a flexible schedule
*Please be advised that all offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a Police Records Check and Vulnerable Sector Screening, and clear Driver’s Abstract provided by the Ministry of Transportation.
Applicants are invited to submit their resume and cover letter to Toya Brooks at jobs@veahavta.org with “Outreach Worker” in the subject line.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the posting will remain
open until the position is filled.
We thank all interested applicants but can only respond to those invited for an interview.
Ve’ahavta is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from equity seeking groups including qualified individuals with personal experience of the mental health system. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.