Drop-in Youth Support Worker

Hours for this Position: 20-40 hours per week. There are several drop-in positions available,ranging from 20-40 hours. Collectively, the Winter Response team will be facilitating a low barrier drop-in for youth aged 13-25 and providing Case Management support Monday-Friday from 8 am to 8 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 1 pm to 8 pm. We are currently are looking at a 3 month commitment which upon City approval is likely to continue through to the end of the year. The City is also hoping that this support would also roll over into next year as well.

Job Summary: Through funding from the City of Hamilton, our response to support homeless and vulnerable youth. Living Rock Ministries will provide a housing-focused drop-in that includes services and supports to provide relief and protection for youth experiencing homelessness. Our drop-in team will also focus on prevention and diversion services for youth at risk of homelessness. Program solutions are expected to operate from a Housing-First and people-centered approach. As a Youth Support Worker for our drop-in program, you will play a vital role in providing essential support and services to vulnerable youth aged 13-25. Your primary responsibilities will include creating a safe and welcoming environment, offering assistance with basic needs, providing emotional support, and facilitating access to resources and referrals. This position requires compassion, empathy, and a commitment to empowering young people to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Working as part of a larger Open Access/Drop-in team to support the facilitation of showers and a low barrier drop-in for vulnerable youth in Hamilton. Proactively develop positive, non-judgmental relationships with youth aged 13-25, recognizing their diverse backgrounds. Drop-in Staff will provide case management support and referrals at Living Rock and within the context of our drop-in community.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Welcoming Environment:

- Greet youth warmly as they arrive at the drop-in center.
- Create a safe and inclusive space where youth feel respected and supported.
- Conduct intake assessments and ensure all youth are signed in according to procedures.
- Engage youth in games and activities as time allows.

2. Basic Needs Assistance:

- Provide meals, snacks, water, and hygiene products to youth as needed.
- Provide access to showers and laundry.
- Assist with accessing food, clothing, and other essential resources.
- Conduct weapons checks and ensure the safety of all participants.

3. Emotional Support:

- Listen actively to youth and provide non-judgmental emotional support.
- Offer guidance, encouragement, and validation to help youth navigate challenges.
- Facilitate peer support groups and activities to promote social connection and emotional well-being.

4. Resource Referrals:

- Connect youth with relevant community resources, including housing assistance,
- mental health services, and educational opportunities.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of available resources and services in the local area.
- Assist youth with accessing transportation and making appointments as needed.

5. Documentation and Reporting:

- Maintain accurate records of interactions with youth, including case notes, incident reports, daily reporting, shift-end notes and time sheets.
- Complete all required paperwork in a timely and thorough manner. Provide input for program evaluation and improvement efforts.

Qualifications:

- Community College or University Student of a Social Service or Youth Worker Program

or relevant experience.
- Knowledge of Homeless Individuals & Families Information System (HIFIS4) database considered an asset.
- Understanding of the factors affecting the lives of young people and the ability to provide reliable support during stressful times.
- Knowledge/familiarity with related resources such as mental health, income assistance, harm reduction, trauma-informed practice, and addiction support services.
- Experience working with people experiencing homelessness, addictions, and/or mental health-related concerns.
- Ability to establish good relationships, patience, tolerance, and flexibility.

Living Rock Ministries has provided programs that engage, encourage, and equip youth towards their personal development goals for 38 years in Hamilton. Last year, Living Rock responded to over 22,000 visits, providing essential support to one of Hamilton’s most vulnerable populations: youth between the ages of 13-25 affected by significant risk factors such as loss of family, poverty, substance misuse, and mental health challenges. These youth need support to navigate social systems to meet their basic needs of food, education, and shelter. The programs and services offered by Living Rock Ministries provide a continuum of care for youth and their children, offering opportunities for personal development, life skills, and employment training. Because of the changing nature of the work and the presen