Assistant to The Shelter Coordinator

Assistant to the Shelter Coordinator Work Site: 502 Front Street,

Assistant to the Shelter Coordinator

Work Site: 502 Front Street, New Westminster

**Salary**: $29.00 / hour

Hours: 37 hours per week (Weekends, 8pm - 8am; Weekdays with some flexibility)

Reports to: Shelter Coordinator and Purpose Executive Director

**Who We Are**

Purpose Society is a community-based multi-service organization dedicated to delivering comprehensive programs for children, youth, and families. We focus on enhancing well-being, strengthening family functioning, and promoting personal responsibility through a client-centered approach. Our services are provided in a safe, respectful environment that values diversity and community connection.

**The Opportunity**

**We are seeking a passionate and committed Assistant to the Shelter Coordinator who will provide administrative, operational, and programming Support to the Shelter Coordinator of the Purpose Overnight Shelter. The Assistant to the Shelter Coordinator must be compassionate, level-headed, and able to exercise good judgment in unpredictable circumstances. The Purpose Overnight Shelter operates from 8:00 pm to 8:00 am, 7 days a week, with possibility of service expansion. The shelter currently provides a cot, linen, dinner and breakfast to approximately 50 individuals per night**.**

**What You’ll Do**
- Assist the Shelter Coordinator in overseeing nightly shelter operations in an administrative capacity
- Coordinate shifts, ensures proper coverage, schedules staff training
- Maintain efficient and accurate shelter data (electronic), required documentation and prepare reports as required
- Provides information and direction to employees in the absence of the Shelter Coordinator
- Maintain active participation in process improvement of day to day shelter operations, in collaboration with the Shelter Coordinator
- Monitor the safety of the site and the practices on a daily basis to ensure everyone’s safety, initiate crisis management protocol as required, report all safety-related concerns and issues
- Prepare monthly Risk Management Safety Inspection report
- Participate in and record minutes of staff meetings
- Collaborate with the Shelter Coordinator on program evaluation and determines positive outcomes for the site
- Assist the Shelter Coordinator in establishing relationships with the City of New Westminster, the Police and Fire Departments, other organizations, the business community, resident associations, and others in order to ensure excellence in service delivery

**What We Are Looking For**

**Qualifications**:

- Experience working with vulnerable and marginalized populations, especially those dealing with mental health and substance use
- A degree from a recognized university in a relevant discipline (e.g. social services, community development, public health), or
- A two-year post-secondary diploma in a relevant discipline (e.g. social services, community development, public health) and 4 years’ experience providing front-line, harm reduction services with an emphasis on mental health, addiction, homelessness and/or social services
- Current First Aid and CPR certification

**Job Skills and Abilities**:

- Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Suite
- Highly organized with strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Experience developing and implementing new programs
- Experience supervising employees
- Advanced overdose recognition and response training
- Knowledge of common drugs and their effects
- Ability to work with and collaborate in a team setting to produce excellent results
- Ability to maintain a non-judgmental and non-stigmatizing approach is required
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and in stressful situations
- Willingness to participate in an ongoing on the job and other outside courses
- Ability and willingness to work with a client-centered approach
- Good verbal and written communication skills

**Additional Information**:

- Personal vehicle required on occasion
- Must be physically and mentally able to be on your feet for long periods, take on physical tasks and work in a fast-paced environment

**Required**:
3 Professional references from supervisors

Criminal record check

Valid First Aid Certificate (OFA1 or equivalent)

**Why Work With Us**

Join our mission-driven organization and help create positive change in people’s lives. By working with us, you’ll be part of a dedicated team that:

- Provides essential services to vulnerable populations
- Fosters personal growth and healthy decision-making
- Contributes to community well-being in the Lower Mainland

Your work will directly support our programs, which are made possible through generous donations and community support. If you are passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a dynamic, values-driven team, the Lower Mainland Purpose Society for Youth and Families is the place for you.

**How to Apply