Casual Harm Reduction Outreach Specialist

4 weeks ago

Comox Valley, Canada AVI Health and Community Services Full time

AVI HEALTH & COMMUNITY SERVICES (AVI) is a multi-disciplinary community organization dedicated to providing essential services related to HIV, hepatitis C, and harm reduction across various locations. With a commitment to social justice and health promotion, AVI ensures equitable access to services for all individuals, emphasizing the importance of client knowledge in shaping the support they receive.

At the heart of our mission is the establishment of meaningful connections among clients, staff, and the broader community. AVI delivers comprehensive, accessible, and effective education, prevention, care, treatment, and support services to residents in the region. For further information, please refer to our resources.

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Harm Reduction Support Worker plays a vital role in offering a wide range of low-barrier support services to individuals engaged with harm reduction programs. This position focuses on delivering evidence-based educational interventions aimed at enhancing understanding of harm reduction, substance use, overdose prevention, and sexual health. The worker will facilitate behavior change to minimize risks associated with transmission of diseases.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Manage the distribution and recovery of harm reduction supplies.
2. Utilize assessment and crisis response skills to address immediate needs and connect clients with appropriate community resources.
3. Provide educational resources on safer substance use and sexual health, including HIV and hepatitis C prevention.
4. Assess and respond to overdose symptoms as necessary, including administering Naloxone.
5. Conduct overdose prevention education and facilitate Naloxone distribution.
6. Offer training on overdose response techniques.
7. Support peer groups affiliated with AVI, including managing honoraria.
8. Provide brief support and referrals to additional health services.
9. Engage clients using a collaborative, person-centered approach rooted in harm reduction principles.
10. Ensure the safety of program spaces by adhering to violence prevention protocols.
11. Collaborate with partner organizations to deliver a continuum of services.
12. Maintain accurate electronic records and compile necessary reports.
13. Uphold confidentiality in client files, both electronic and paper.
14. Assist with inventory management and supplier communications.
15. Oversee community distribution of harm reduction supplies and maintain records.
16. Participate in planning, evaluation, and program development as directed.
17. Perform additional duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:
• Diploma in health or social services or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of two years' experience in harm reduction settings.
• First Aid certification and experience with critical incident response.
• Valid Class 5 BC Driver's License.
• Experience in community social services with knowledge of local support systems.
• Familiarity with harm reduction frameworks and the importance of client involvement in service delivery.
• Ability to foster a supportive team environment through trust and transparent communication.
• Knowledge of issues affecting communities that use drugs, including mental health and sexual health.
• Understanding of the impacts of systemic injustice and personal privilege in service provision.
• Commitment to harm reduction principles and empathetic, person-centered approaches.
• Proven ability to build rapport with diverse clients, including those facing significant health challenges.
• Experience in managing challenging interactions using de-escalation techniques.
• Proficiency in overdose response and administration of Naloxone.
• Creative problem-solving skills in complex situations.
• Experience in supporting peer groups.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
• Capability to perform physical duties associated with the role.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Proficient in operating relevant equipment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
• Organizational skills to prioritize tasks.
• Ability to establish rapport and recognize client needs.
• Conflict resolution and crisis intervention skills.
• Advocacy and leadership experience.
• Comfort in initiating conversations and building respectful relationships.
• Capacity to work under pressure in crisis situations.
• Understanding of psycho-social issues affecting individuals who use drugs.

POSITION DETAILS:
• Compensation: $31.56/hour with potential increases based on seniority.
• Multiple casual positions available.
• Flexible hours, with shifts typically scheduled during weekdays.
• Unionized position under the Collective Agreement.
• Pension contributions available for eligible staff.
• Additional benefits include vacation and statutory holiday pay.

APPLICATION PROCESS:
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume and cover letter. AVI is committed to equity and diversity, welcoming applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Accommodation is available upon request for candidates participating in the selection process.

Note: Internal staff will be prioritized in the hiring process. We appreciate all applications, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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