Full Time Family Services Worker

The Family Services Worker assists individuals and families who are seeking aid and assistance from, or have been referred to, The Salvation Army. This position also provides support to other programs provided by the Community and Family Services.

Client Services and Programs

• Conduct initial intake application and screen clients for general emergency assistance, including food, clothing household needs, referrals etc.
• Ensure that the facility is tidy and clean, adequate stock levels, sort and process donated goods and process clients through programs.
• Assist with food bank operations, ordering and/or receipt of food donations, recording, general cleanliness, organization.
• Under the direction of the Community and Family Services Manager, assist with new and existing program and service provisions in the community.
• Assist with the coordination and pickup of food donations and/or non-monetary donations.
• Network with referral agencies and/or other community sources as required.
• May participate in community meetings/client referrals as directed by supervisor.
• May assist, support and where applicable participate in annual fundraisers and seasonal programing provided by the Community and Family Services i.e., Christmas Hampers, Christmas Kettles, Food Drives, Camp Programs; aid with other programs as required.
• Refer clients for pastoral support as required.

Supervision

• Assist in providing direction and support to all family services volunteers, ensuring that they work together to achieve the purpose of the organization and enhance the ministries of The Salvation Army.
• May assist in the development of strategies and recommendations for volunteer development.

Finance and Administration

• Ensure that Ministry Unit policies and procedures are followed for the safe/secure handling of all monetary donations received and appropriate documentation of gift cards and various vouchers is maintained, i.e., milk and clothing vouchers.
• Maintain written records, logs of activities, including activity reports and statistical information.
• General administrative duties as required, such as answering phones, directing inquiries etc.
• Maintain accurate records of client information in Link2Feed and on The Salvation Army's computer system while maintaining confidentiality and providing operational and statistical reports as needed.
• Follow direction on the compliance and adherence to Operating Policies and Procedures (i.e., gift cards, vouchers, etc.)

Vehicle/Maintenance

• Assist in maintaining safety, maintenance, operation of program vehicle, and records of the vehicle; work in compliance with CVOR regulations.
• Perform circle checks of the vehicle and maintain vehicle logs; fuel the vehicle as necessary and ensure that the vehicle is always kept clean and presentable.
• Report any vehicle mechanical failures or concerns to the Family Services Manager or designate in a timely manner.
• Complete and maintain an accurate driver's log.
• Maintain knowledge of legislative and company policies such as Health and Safety Regulations, provincial and Municipal Highway traffic acts.

Health and Safety

• Work in compliance with OH&S Act and Regulations and abide by The Salvation Army's health and safety policies and procedures.
• Ensure the safety and comfort of the ministry unit by maintaining cleanliness and food safety, etc. as recommended by Public Health.

Perform other related duties as required.

Working Conditions:

• This is a permanent full-time position based on 37.5 hours per week.
• Schedule may vary according to requirements of responsibilities - with occasional evening and weekend work.
• The Supervisor will set the hours of work and work schedule.
• The working conditions are such that in order to meet the operational needs of the job some flexibility is required as it relates to hours of work.
• Working environment is typically in the office/food bank distribution areas and in the community in generally agreeable conditions. May interact with verbally/physically abusive clients.
• Be able to lift/move up to 50 pounds.
• This job requires reaching, bending and stooping frequently, working in a standing position for periods of time.
• Will be required to wear Salvation Army branded clothing provided by the employer.
• Travel is associated with this position, mainly in the Grey Bruce area.
• Note: Required to use a program vehicle where applicable.

• Completion of a Community College Diploma, Social Service Worker, counselling or equivalent in a related field of study.
• Ability and willingness to provide a valid Safe Food Handlers Certification.
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Certificate preferred.
• Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered.

EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE:

• Minimum of two (2) years of prior related experience, including experience working with multi-barriered persons with mental health issues
• Knowledge of community-based resources and experience networking with government and social service agencies.
• Valid Ontario Class "G" Driver's License, provide an original copy of current driver's abstract for review and verification that it satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion, is required.

SKILLS AND CAPABILITIES:

• Self-motivated and disciplined.
• Demonstrate a high level of integrity and good judgment.
• Good computer skills and experience using Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to exercise diplomacy, tact, and compassion.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team with minimal supervision in a multi-faceted environment.
• Demonstrated patience and compassion to work with challenging and/or emotionally dependent individuals.
• Ability to prioritize, organize and manage multiple tasks; the ability to complete assignments and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Exhibit good listening skills and strong oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, integrity, and adaptability.
• Strong sense of integrity and confidentiality with professional ethics.
• Lead by example, by demonstrating a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn and be flexible.
• Attention to detail, problem solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to undergo applicable screening and background checks successfully that are satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion (i.e., The Salvation Army Abuse Registry) and provide an original copy of a vulnerable sector check search.
• Ability and willingness to develop an understanding and support for the mission and purpose of The Salvation Army in Canada and its implications as related to position responsibilities.

The Salvation Army offers accommodation for applicants with disabilities in its recruitment process. If you are contacted to participate in an interview or screening process, please advise us if you require accommodation.

We thank all applicants, however, only those candidates to be interviewed will be contacted.

You must advise your managing supervisor of your intentions prior to submitting your application.