Title

Youth Service Worker

Reports To

The Program Manager & The Director of WYC

Hours

To agreed contract

Divisions Served

Windsor Youth Center

Summary of Position

The Youth Service Worker oversees the provisions of services in accordance with the DTM- WYC philosophy and mandate, is the primary contact for youth, volunteers, donors, and visitors, and implements programming in collaboration with volunteers and other professional partners of the Downtown Mission

Expected Outcomes

Your in-depth understanding of the vulnerable youth, be it in the form of addiction, poverty, mental health issues, is provided and utilized as an aid in developing and improving the services at the WYC to meet the needs of this sector in our society

Education Required

Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Social Services, Community Services OR Diploma/Certificate in a related human services field. Or combined work experience and education could be considered

Experience Required

Time Management, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, CPR/First Aid, HIFIS, mental health first aid or a willingness to seek certification in such Office 365 Suite, HIFIS (preferred)

Skills Required

Ability to build trust and respect by treating people with dignity, respect, and fairness; you listen to others and consider opinions and ideas

You are a collaborator who promotes cooperation by actively listening, being genuine, valuing others' points of view, leveraging diversity, support, and respond well to others

Maintains and develops professional competence, through appropriate continuing education methods

Exhibits the desire to serve a diverse population of youth by providing helpful, courteous, accessible, and responsive service

Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and dedication to the mission & vision of the DTM

Financial Responsibility

Nurture an awareness of cost efficiency

Duties & Responsibilities

• Ensure the WYC is prepared for opening at 4:00 PM or earlier depending on programming.
• Engage in conversations with new and returning youth with the intention of welcoming them, collecting information to confirm appropriate age requirements, orienting youth to the WYC’s services, providing necessary services, or directing participants to other supports or interventions not available at the WYC when necessary. Respond to situations in which youth may be a danger to themselves or others.
• Provide for the basic and immediate needs of marginalized youth.
• Assure adherence to safety protocols to protect all members of the WYC community.
• Call on and cooperate with emergency personnel or other agencies when necessary.
• Document concerns and serious incidents.
• Liaise with external agencies or partners.
• Advocate for youth with external agencies.
• Provide feedback regarding the programming, policies, and procedures for the WYC program when needed.
• Engage in formal consultations (not counseling) with youth, making referrals to external agencies and emergency services when appropriate.
• With approval from the Manager or Director, use a personal vehicle to grocery shop for Centre meals, attend DTM–WYC special events, or complete other off-site DTM–WYC related errands.
• Alert other staff and volunteers to professional development opportunities or relevant information.
• Share new insights and information in a professional manner, with the aim of improving the DTM–WYC community and the larger community it serves.
• Commit to participating in the ongoing creation of a safe and affirming environment.
• Demonstrate strong communication skills.
• Maintain enthusiasm for ongoing learning and personal and professional development.
• Develop and implement programming that encourages healthy youth growth through youth participation.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.
• Assist with cooking and/or serving meals for youth, staff, and vol