Family Support Worker

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Title: Family Support Worker

Department: Community Programs

Classification: Full Time, Term (1 year), Salaried, Non-Management

Hours: 37.5 hours per week. This position requires afternoon and evening availability. Required to work 1 PM – 8:30 PM and weekends.

Location: Spryfield, NS (with temporary work in Halifax until site opening)

Deadline: Until filled

*Must submit cover letter to be considered*

YWCA Halifax is a progressive, multi-service, not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of women, girls, two-spirited and gender diverse people and their families at critical turning points in their lives. We work to transform lives by providing a continuum of services and programs that drive lasting positive change. We strive to change the underlying issues that are root causes of inequality, violence, poverty, and homelessness. Our four program focus areas include: promoting the health, wellness, and leadership of women and girls; advancing women's economic and housing security; delivering quality, accessible, early learning, and childcare; and working to end violence against women, girls and gender diverse individuals.

Why work for the YWCA

Staff at YWCA Halifax enjoy a supportive and dynamic team environment, a commitment to staff growth, a connection to the national and international YWCA movements, learning from colleagues in a multiservice agency, and a strong shared vision.

Why YOU should apply

Even if you don't have all the requirements listed in this position, you may be the right candidate. If you are a natural leader with a strong attention to detail and a passion for social justice and gender equity, we want to hear from you. Take a chance and apply. Tell us how you can make a difference through your YWCA.

Program Overview

Integrated Youth Services (IYS) is an international and pan-Canadian movement that takes a community-led, partnership based approach to support for youth ages Anchor Youth Spaces provide timely, coordinated access to a wide range of programs and services. IYS reduces barriers, promotes early intervention, and integrates wraparound supports such as mental health and addictions care, primary health, social services, and peer supports.

Key Responsibilities:

• Embrace a holistic, equity focused, and trauma-informed approach to strengthening family well-being grounded in IYS Guiding Principles, the social determinants of health, and YWCA Halifax's commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, reconciliation, accessibility, and anti-racism.
• Meet with caregivers to assess needs and options, provide education, and offer ongoing support.
• Facilitate referrals and connections within IYS and to other external community services.
• Assist caregivers in supporting youth on their wellness journeys and in their transitions to adult services.
• Provide case management support and crisis intervention when needed.
• Nurture opportunities for caregiver engagement, leadership, personal development, and peer support, both formally and informally.
• Plan, deliver, and facilitate group programming and activities for families/caregivers that support capacity building, peer support, and build knowledge of mental health and addictions challenges.
• Support and organize the Caregiver Advisory Committee in collaboration with the provincial Youth & Engagement Caregiver Coordinator.
• Collaborate with IYS staff, service providers, and committees to ensure integrated service delivery.
• Maintain timely and accurate case documentation.
• Participate in IYS planning, evaluation, team building research and quality improvement initiatives locally and provincially.
• Contribute to IYS committees, working groups, and communities of practice, and take part in regular performance appraisals, training, and professional development.
• Act with the highest professional and ethical standards, following all organizational policies, procedures, applicable legislation and regulation, and professional standards and codes of ethics.
• Carry out other duties as required

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Undergraduate degree in Social Sciences (family studies or similar preferred); specialization in mental health and addictions an asset.
• Minimum two (2) years of experience supporting caregivers and working with youth;
• Equivalent education/experience combinations will be considered.
• Experience working with people who bring diverse lived experiences, including 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Mi'kmaq, Inuit, and Métis), African Nova Scotians, racialized communities, newcomers, people with disabilities, and others with intersecting identities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multi-service environment.
• Demonstrated ability to engage and build rapport with diverse youth, including those impacted by trauma.
• Proficiency with electronic case documentation and Microsoft Office suite.
• Ability to work flexible hours (including some evening and weekends to meet the needs of youth)
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification, including naloxone training; NVCI; or a willingness to obtain this training
• Must be able to provide a current Child Abuse Registry and Criminal Record check with a Vulnerable Sector check upon hiring

YWCA Halifax is committed to diversity, and we welcome all suitably qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. YWCA Halifax is governed by, employs, and serves diverse individuals and community members. Self-identification by applicants does not guarantee an interview but we want you to know that we understand that lived experience of racialization, Indigeneity, disability, and gender diversity are their own knowledge and expertise. We value this expertise and consider it as we discern who to interview.

If interested, please send your cover letter and resume in one document to

Subject line: Family Support Worker

Job Type: Full-time

Expected hours: 37.5 per week

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Extended health care
• Paid time off

Application question(s):

• Are you legally entitled to work in Canada?

Work Location: In person