Community Engagement Worker

**COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT WORKER**
FULL TIME, REGULAR POSITION - 35 hours per week

SALARY: $50,000 ANNUALLY, HOOPP (HEALTHCARE OF ONTARIO PENSION PLAN), HEALTH BENEFITS

**Join Us in Making a Meaningful Difference**

At Fontbonne Ministries, we're more than just a workplace -- we're a community dedicated to fostering dignity and creating positive change. Founded on the inspiring legacy of the Sisters of St. Joseph, we're looking for passionate individuals who share our commitment to building a more inclusive and supportive society.

**Why Choose Us?**
- **Purpose-Driven Work**: Be part of transformative programs that directly impact the lives of socially isolated individuals in our community.
- **Inclusive Culture**: Join an organization that actively champions diversity and equity, where every team member's unique perspective is valued and celebrated.
- **Exceptional Benefits**: Secure your future with our comprehensive HOOPP pension plan, one of Ontario's most respected pension programs.

**Our Vision & Impact**

We're dedicated to nurturing community, dignity, and spirit through:

- Building authentic connections with our community members
- Creating welcoming spaces where everyone belongs
- Driving positive social change through innovative programs

**Our values guide everything we do**:

- **Respect**: We celebrate each person's unique gifts and inherent dignity
- **Advocacy**: We lead positive change by responding to evolving community needs
- **Community**: We build strong, collaborative partnerships that create lasting impact
- **Compassion**: We provide personalized attention with empathy and understanding
- **Accountability**: We make sustainable choices that benefit future generations

If you're passionate about making a real difference while building a rewarding career with excellent benefits, we want to hear from you. Join our team and be part of a legacy of compassionate care and community building.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Reporting to the Director, Programs and Partnerships, the Community Engagement Worker is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with program participants, community members, and partner organizations. This role focuses on increasing community participation, facilitating access to services, developing and implementing outreach strategies, and creating opportunities for meaningful engagement that foster social connection and belonging.

AREAS OF ACCOUNTABILITY

Acting in accordance with Fontbonne Ministries' mission, vision, values, and policies in all dealings.

Community Outreach and Relationship Building
- Develop and implement effective outreach strategies to connect with isolated or marginalized community members.
- Build and maintain relationships with diverse community members, organizations, and stakeholders.
- Act as a liaison between Fontbonne Ministries and the broader community, representing the organization at community events and meetings.
- Identify and engage with potential program participants who may benefit from our services.
- Create and nurture a welcoming environment that encourages participation and fosters a sense of belonging.
- Develop and maintain a network of referral sources and community partners.

Program Development and Implementation
- Collaborate with the Social Worker and other team members to design, implement, and evaluate community engagement initiatives.
- Organize and facilitate community events, workshops, support groups, and social activities that respond to identified community needs.
- Develop culturally appropriate programming that reflects the diversity of our community.
- Create opportunities for community members to develop leadership skills and engage in meaningful volunteer roles.
- Support the implementation of asset-based community development approaches.
- Identify emerging community needs and trends, and develop responsive programming.

Participant Support and Advocacy
- Provide information, referrals, and navigation support to help community members access needed services.
- Support program participants in building social connections and developing community belonging.
- Advocate for inclusion and accessibility in all community spaces and services.
- Assist participants in identifying and building on their existing strengths and assets.
- Support individuals with complex needs to participate fully in community life.
- Facilitate engagement opportunities for diverse community members, including those who face barriers to participation.

Community Capacity Building
- Identify and nurture community members' skills, talents, and leadership potential.
- Create opportunities for peer support and mentorship among program participants.
- Facilitate community-led initiatives and social action projects.
- Support community members to become advocates and leaders in addressing local issues.
- Develop and implement skill-building workshops and training opportunities.
- Collaborate with community members to address barriers t