Part Time Mobile Outreach Worker

The Mobile Outreach Worker provides assistance/service to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, inclusive of youth, while interacting in a positive and supportive manner. Assist the Kitchener-Waterloo community through delivering food assistance to those in need.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES : Service Responsibilities

• Direct the loading of the vehicle with prepared food, personal items such as clothing, blankets etc. for distribution through outreach program services and take inventory to ensure all material assistance items are in stock.
• Provide mobile crisis intervention to those who are homeless/at risk of homelessness on the streets on designated day/days of the week and provide support, problem-solving and referrals to community partners as needed.
• Provide follow-up service on all referrals and consumer needs as required; complete and submit notes on ministry outcomes, including program documentation and statistical data.
• Work in collaboration with the Community Ministries Director and/or Executive Director to cultivate and maintain existing emergency disaster networks and community partner relationships in the region.
• Participate in various committees as requested.
• Participate in emergency disaster services related events/trainings and outreach (parades etc.) as required.

Volunteer coordination

• Coordinate, schedule and supervise volunteers on the Outreach vehicle, and work collaboratively with the volunteer coordinator in recruitment, orientation, and training.
• Work closely with volunteers to carry out tasks and maintain open communication.
• Maintain a database of volunteers, contacts and statistics, and ensure volunteers adhere to Salvation Army protocols, procedures and screening.

Safe Operations

• Direct care of mobile outreach vehicle and program vehicle are serviced and maintained, including driving, perform circle checks, maintain vehicle logs, ensure the vehicle is always kept clean and presentable, and coordinate timely servicing as required.
• Contact emergency service personnel (ambulance/police) as needed.
• Responsible for the safe operations of the Mobile Outreach vehicle ensuring best/safe practices at all times including safe food handling for volunteers and vehicle operation.
• May engage in and implement a local emergency response plan, assisting with provincial/federal emergencies as required.
• Respond to emergencies arising from local or regional disasters in connection with Waterloo Region and/or The Salvation Army in the Ontario Division.

Perform other duties as mutually agreed upon.

WORKING CONDITIONS :

• This is a permanent part time position based on 6 hours per week.
• Schedule may vary according to requirements of responsibilities which includes weekday evening work and weekends, and will be determined in consultation with the Community Ministries Director
• Flexibility in scheduling is required.
• Ability to lift/move more than 25 lbs. and this job requires reaching, bending, and stooping frequently; working in a standing position for long periods of time.
• Normal location of work is at Kitchener Community Church and Family Care Centre, and at the location of the street ministry.
• Travel is required.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS :

• Completion of Undergraduate University degree, degree in Human (Social) Sciences is preferred.
• Background in Emergency Disaster Services is an asset.
• Possess or willing to obtain Safe Food Handling Certification, First Aid & CPR and Non-violent Crisis Intervention certifications.
• Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered.

EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE :

• At least one (1) year of prior related experience in outreach programs or related experience.
• Experience driving a commercial vehicle is an asset.
• Valid Ontario Class ‘G Driver’s license, a dopy of current driver’s abstract that is satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion, is required.

SKILLS AND CAPABILITIES :

• Demonstrated ability to establish and implement goals and plans for self and clients.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated and disciplined.
• Works well with people.
• Maturity and ability to exercise good judgement.
• Ability to work both independently and with supervision.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Attention to detail, problem solving and analytical skills.
• Strong sense of integrity and confidentiality with professional ethics and a balanced sense of fairness and flexibility.
• Ability to work independently and participate as an active and responsible team member in a cooperative team environment.
• Participate in orientation and ongoing professional development and training.
• Work in compliance with OH&S Act and Regulations and abide by The Salvation Army’s Health & Safety policies and procedures.
• Ability to undergo applicable screening and background checks successfully that are sat