Community Worker, Shine

**About NFLA**

Nanaimo Family Life Association is a non-profit organization with a proud history of providing services that have touched individuals and families throughout all stages of life and across all backgrounds. Since 1967 we have been supporting resilience in all aspects of individual and community life.

**Position Summary**

Reporting to the Director of Programs, the SHINE, Community Worker at NFLA plays a key role in supporting housing stability for seniors and reduces risks of housing instability and loss by providing information, navigation, and one-to-one support. The NFLA SHINE program also strives to increase the health and wellness of Nanaimo seniors by providing information, system navigation and advocacy as related to their housing needs to support the principle of aging in place.

The SHINE Community Worker operates under the guidance of the SHINE Program Coordinator, reporting directly to the Director of Programs or designate.

**Key Responsibilities**

**Provide a range of support services to senior clients who may have multiple barriers to housing, including**:

- Conducting comprehensive assessments through direct one-to-one consultations with clients.
- Providing guidance, and referral services to other community agencies.
- Serving vulnerable and marginalized older adults with the intention of establishing a rapport and building trust.
- Supporting clients by providing educational materials and guidance regarding how to obtain and maintain safe and affordable housing.
- Provide informational assistance to seniors regarding the Residential Tenancy Act and their rental rights.
- Support senior tenants in their communication with landlords and be a mediating resource when and where appropriate.
- Provide administrative support to the SHINE Program Coordinator by maintaining appropriate records and assisting with the preparation of reports as needed.
- Carry out other duties as assigned

**As a member of the NFLA team, performs a variety of administrative duties and attends professional development functions, including**:

- Initiating and participating in program and policy assessment.
- Attending team meetings to debrief cases, provide and receive peer support, provide up-dates on community status and exchange information on community resources.
- Tracking client statistical data for funders and completing reports as required.
- Attending, and at times presenting at, pertinent workshops/seminars and conferences as a program and agency representative.
- Supporting and participating in agency-wide initiatives such as public presentations, community forums, strategic planning events and information seminars.

**Educational Qualifications**
- Diploma or BA in Community Support Work, Social Work, Social Sciences, or other relevant disciplines.
- Conflict Resolution/Crisis Prevention/Mental Health First Aid, Training and Experience is an asset.
- Minimum two (2) years of experience within service provision.
- Note: An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. _

**Knowledge, Skills & Abilities**:

- Demonstrated knowledge of the needs of older adults, marginalized and vulnerable older adults as related to the housing sector.
- Knowledge of the principles providing services through “trauma-informed” lens.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and be part of an integrated community team.
- Knowledge of services and resources in the Nanaimo region.
- Awareness of harm reduction and ‘Housing First’ theory and practice.
- Demonstrated conflict management/crisis prevention skills.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain the utmost confidentiality and handle all relevant documentation appropriately.
- Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with clients, staff, and community professionals.
- Proficient in MS Office programs including Word, Outlook, and Excel.

**Additional Requirements**
- Completion of a Criminal Record Check is required.
- First Aid Certification is required.
- Must have a valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle with a minimum of $2 million liability business class insurance.
- This position involves a high degree of community engagement, with much of the work being completed independently out of the office._

**What We Offer**
- There is a 3-month probationary period after which benefits are offered.
- NFLA provides all employees with a paid self-care day each month as well as birthdays off.
- A supportive and inclusive work environment with opportunities for professional development.
- The opportunity to make a significant impact in a meaningful, mission-driven organization.

**How to Apply**

NFLA is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Indigenous peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, to apply.

Pay: $26.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35 per week

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
-