Overnight Diversion Worker

Organization Overview
Our Place Peel is a growing, community-based, non-profit charitable organization that is focused on providing shelter and outreach support for homeless and disadvantaged youth aged 16-24 in the Region of Peel. We are a leading organization recognized in the community for our commitment to providing youth in need with a safe environment and access to services to help them achieve independence and foster growth.

Our Place Peel’s mission is to empower youth through prevention, intervention and support in accessing safe and sustainable housing. Their vision is for all youth to have a place to call home.

What We Can Offer You:
• Paid Time off
• Casual dress
• On-site parking
• Training and education allowance
• 100% employer-paid benefits
• Wellness program
• Employee and family assistance program
• Opportunity for Growth!

Location: Brampton

Job Type: Full-Time

Position Profile:
The Diversion Worker provides diversion support for youth experiencing, who are or at-risk of homelessness to secure safe housing alternatives to emergency shelter that is appropriate to their circumstances including acquiring or to maintain existing housing. For the Overnight position, it will be a 40 hours, 4 days a week shift. The hours from the overnight shift is from 11:00 pm to 9:00 am.

Role Overview

Responsibilities:
• Meet with youth entering the shelter to assess and explore safe alternative living arrangements through solution focused support and diversion services.
• Work within a system of care approach to assess diversion or entry to the shelter, and provide coordinated access to the shelter system if appropriate.
• Apply client-centered approach when working with youth to achieve positive outcomes and empower them through strength-based practices.
• Provide counseling, conflict resolution and mediation to youth, their ‘families’ and/or landlords to prevent homelessness.
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with community partners and support youth with referrals to appropriate professional services.
• Assist in creating practices and protocols that promote positive shelter diversion outcomes.
• Participate in client care reviews and team meetings to ensure effective delivery of support services and continuity of care.
• Facilitate and/or support social and emotional skills groups for youth.
• Collaborate with other agencies that work in the areas of youth homelessness.
• Utilize assessment tools to provide accurate care planning, outcomes and client centered goal development.
• Compiles statistical information and prepares monthly reports as required for program evaluation and development.
• Maintain accurate records, including Housing Technology, and entering client data for monthly, quarterly and annual funding reports.
• Actively network within the community to promote the program and services by conducting presentations, attending information sessions and sitting on committees.

Qualifications:
• University degree or equivalent in related social services field.
• 3+ years experience within the social service sector supporting youth experiencing homelessness, mental illness and substance use in obtaining housing, employment, educational and community opportunities.
• Experience in mental health, harm reduction and crisis intervention.
• Experience supporting youth through evidence-based practices and frameworks (Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, Harm Reduction).
• Cultural competency sensitivity and commitment to working through an anti-oppressive, anti-racism framework.
• Knowledge of housing first for youth, trauma informed care, and counselling.
• Knowledge of resources within the Region of Peel, specifically for youth.
• Ability to work rotating shifts including some weekends and holidays.
• A valid Ontario Driver’s License, access to a vehicle and $2,000,000 (minimum) liability car insurance coverage are mandatory
• Valid CPI/ UMAB and First Aid/ CPR certifications.
• Satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Police Check that meets the standards of Our Place Peel.
• Must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, subject to applicable legislation.