Urban Squash Toronto supports students from the Jane & Finch community to graduate high school, pursue post-secondary education, and build pathways to successful careers by providing opportunities and removing the barriers that stand in their way.

Social Worker – Programming and Community Support

Role Overview:

The Social Worker – Youth Program and Community Support role is a flexible, part-time team member who supports the emotional well-being, engagement, and holistic development of UST students through a combination of program facilitation, drop-in support, and responsive one-on-one intervention.

This role is designed to be general and adaptive, responding to the day-to-day needs of students and programming. The Social Worker will primarily focus on open-forum availability, preventative support, and integration into general programming, while remaining available to provide more intensive, individualized support for students who need it. When students do not require direct support, the Social Worker will assist with or temporarily support general programming and operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Youth Support & Mental Health Services

• Maintain an open-door / drop-in model, allowing students to seek support as needed.
• Provide brief one-on-one or small group support related to emotional regulation, stress, peer conflict, family challenges, or school-related concerns.
• Use trauma-informed, strengths-based, and culturally responsive approaches.
• Identify students who may require additional or external support and make appropriate referrals in collaboration with staff.
• Maintain confidential, concise documentation when required.
• Other duties as required

Workshop & Group Programming

Design, facilitate, or co-facilitate workshops and group sessions related to:

• Mental health, self-care and wellness
• Emotional regulation and coping skills
• Identity, confidence, and life skills

Adapt facilitation style to various age groups and program settings.

Participate in general programming when student support needs are low, ensuring continuity of services.

Program & Operational Support

• Step into general program support when not engaged in direct student support, including:
• Assisting with transitions between activities
• Co-facilitating enrichment or academic programming
• Supporting safe and positive student behaviour
• Serve as a visible, trusted adult presence within the space.
• Support program flow to ensure a safe, organized, and welcoming environment.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with program staff, facilitators, and leadership to:
• Share relevant student insights (within confidentiality guidelines)
• Support integrated care and prevention strategies
• Participate in staff meetings and contribute professional knowledge to program development.
• Act as a bridge between students, families, and external supports when appropriate

General Duties

• Perform all other tasks assigned by supervisors to support the mission and daily operations of Urban Squash Toronto.
• Uphold UST’s values of respect, responsibility, teamwork, and integrity in all interactions.

Schedule & Compensation

Work Schedule:

• 2:15 pm-6:15 pm – Monday – Friday
• 12 pm – 2 pm Saturday (once a month wellness workshop)
• These hours are flexible (~20hours per week expected)

Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications.

Qualifications and Qualities:

Education & Certification:

• Diploma or Degree in social work or a related field
• Registered or eligible for registration with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW)

Experience:

• Experience working with underserved or equity-deserving communities
• Comfort facilitating workshops or informal group discussions
• Knowledge of community-based mental health resources
• Experience working with youth and/or young adults, particularly in community or non-profit settings
• Experien