Crisis Desk Direct Support Professional

Coordinate during emergencies (Lockdown/Code XXX or Keep Clear):
Fulfill participant needs/requests (e.g., food, hygiene products, clothing, cheques).

Respond to escalated participants when staff is unavailable.

**ABOUT US**

Turning Leaf is a non-profit, charitable organization that provides person-centered, crisis and treatment services to low and high-risk vulnerable and marginalized individuals living with mental illness and intellectual challenge in our community. Turning Leaf’s support is customized to every individual’s needs and risk level. We offer crisis-intervention and treatment services, community support, day program services, residential support (including emergency housing, 24-hour homes, cluster housing, and home share), a harm reduction program, clinical services, indigenous services and more.
- **We are proud to be recognized as one of Manitoba’s Top Employers of 2024. This honour distinguishes Turning Leaf as a leader in our industry, and as one of the top places to work in the province.**_

**WHO WE SUPPORT**

The participants of our programs are often deeply impacted by their circumstances which can become barriers to living safely and independently in the community. Trauma, homelessness, poverty, addictions, discrimination, sexual exploitation, societal stigmas, and lack of access to resources are some of the barriers our participants face every day.

**MAKE AN IMPACT**

Being a part of the Turning Leaf team means you will have the opportunity to make a direct and positive impact on people’s lives every day. The work is challenging in all the best ways and deeply rewarding. Many of our employees say they have found their life’s purpose while working here.

Turning Leaf provides ongoing, meaningful training to ensure we remain an industry leader and that our employees have the skills and confidence to be successful in their careers. We are an organization that pledges to uphold a workplace culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, compassion, and respect.
- **New Hire Incentive Program: Full/Part-Time new hires will receive a $200 bonus after six months of employment.**_

**JOB SUMMARY**

The Crisis Desk Support Professional is a crucial member of Turning Leaf's Crisis Response team, working closely with the Crisis Response Supervisor to maintain a safe and supportive environment for both participants and staff. This role involves managing the front desk during busy periods, assisting participants, and addressing crises or escalated situations as they arise.

The Crisis Desk Support Professional acts as the main point of contact during emergencies, coordinating responses and delegating tasks to ensure effective crisis management. Additionally, this position supports harm reduction efforts and helps maintain smooth daily operations within the office.

**ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS**
- Cover letter and updated resume.
- 18 years of age or older.
- Clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check (no older than six months)
- Clear Adult Abuse Registry Check (no older than six months)
- Clear Child Abuse Registry Check (no older than three months).
- Valid CPR and First Aid Certification.
- Minimum two years of direct support experience working in a residential or community setting.
- Completion of a Post-Secondary Education in Human Services (Certificate, Diploma, or Degree) is considered an asset.
- Three employment references.

**QUALITIES AND QUALIFICATIONS**

Crisis Desk Support Professional should demonstrate emotional awareness and have the ability to remain calm in escalated situations. Moreover, the Crisis Desk Support Professional must be able to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously, empathetically, and professionally while executing their responsibilities and providing Turning Leaf’s person-centered supports. Additional required attributes include:

- Strong situational awareness and crisis management skills.
- Excellent communication and de-escalation abilities.
- Ability to respond quickly and calmly to high-stress situations.
- Organized, reliable, and detail-oriented.

**SUMMARY OF JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIRES**

Managing the front entrance (when the front desk is absent or busy):

- Monitor the door to allow entry.
- Assist visitors by contacting relevant staff.
- Help participants connect with their Case Manager (CM).
- Receive and notify the corresponding CM of medications
- Support the front desk during busy times by assisting waiting individuals.

Ensure sign-in sheets are completed.

Support staff with escalated participants or those presenting with self-injury (SI) risks.

Respond to escalated participants when staff is unavailable
- Direct someone to call 911, if necessary.
- Delegate tasks (e.g., Narcan administration, monitoring, CPR/First Aid).
- Clear bystanders and ensure everyone move to secure areas.
- Perform tasks such as Narcan administration or de-escalation if needed.
- Provide harm reduction supplies (e.g., Cleans, Stems, Bubblers, Cond