Housing Support Worker

The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick is working hard to address the critical issue's facing the region; the health crisis, population decline, youth outmigration and child poverty. At the Y, we are striving to build a diverse and inclusive community where each person is valued for the unique perspectives and contributions they bring.

The Y offers a diverse set of programs at 19 locations in the city and surrounding municipalities. We are a community of 450 employees and 500 volunteers. If you don't have a Y story yet - now is your opportunity to get involved. We invite you to come see what the power of belonging can do for you, your career and your community.

Position Overview

The Housing Support Worker provides critical support for RAP Counsellors and/or Settlement Counsellors in their work of resettlement and settlement assistance through: application support, practical guidance, and community referrals to newcomer clients at Newcomer Connections. The Housing Support Worker position will assist RAP Counsellors and/or Settlement Counsellors in sourcing and securing housing options for newly arrived clients and ongoing follow up support for Newcomer clients during their Settlement journey. This position sits on the Newcomer Support Services team and reports to Supervisor, Resettlement Assistance Program.

Authority: The incumbent will take all actions appropriate to fulfilling the described functions. Such actions will be consistent with the practices and policies of the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick. Reports to the Development Supervisor.

Core Responsibilities

· Assist RAP Counsellors with searching for appropriate housing options

· Maintain strong relationships with local landlords and Housing NB

· Assist RAP counsellors to arrange all lease requirements with landlords

· Assist RAP counsellors to arrange all move-in details

· Liaise with landlords on behalf of clients as requested

· Work with RAP Counsellors to book appointments with newcomers to view housing options, and accompany clients to the appointments

· Deliver Housing specific information and orientation sessions or meetings with clients

· Assist the RAP and Settlement teams with other administrative duties during peak workload periods as required

· Support Settlement Counsellors with client NAARs, referrals, bookings and accompaniment to community services and opportunities

· Support Settlement Counsellors with information and orientation sessions or one-on-one settlement plan meetings

· Complete Monthly expense reports

· Attend staff meetings

· Support Settlement team with client housing issues and landlord relationships

· Perform other duties as assigned by the Manager, Settlement and Resettlement Services and GM, Newcomer and Community Connections

Expected Responsibilities

· Models appropriate behaviour in line with the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick's mission, vision, and values; establishes rapport and maintains effective relationship-building behaviour with staff, volunteers, and members.

· Represents the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick in a professional manner both in terms of relationships and documents circulated.

· Understands and integrates the value of philanthropy and volunteerism.

· Self manages personal professional development and work that needs to be completed.

Skills and Qualifications

· Strong knowledge of housing policies and tenant rights

· Excellent communication and negotiation skills

· Ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks simultaneously

· Ability to work flexible hours

· Fluent English language ability, knowledge of other languages is a great asset.

· Approachable and possessing a strong client-centric attitude

· Heightened sensitivity to the needs of our immigrant community

· Exceptional oral and written communication skills

· Exceptional organizational and inter-personal skills

· Employment is contingent on having a clean Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search

Competencies Required

· Commitment to Organization Vision and Values: Demonstrates and promotes a personal understanding of and appreciation for the mission, vision, strategic outcomes, and values of the YMCA.

· Communication: Communicates in a thorough, clear, and timely manner and supports information sharing and goal achievement across the YMCA.

· Initiative: Does the right thing at the right time without being asked.

· Integrity: Demonstrates responsible behaviour at all times and maintains high ethical standards.

· Philanthropy: Demonstrates personal responsibility for the YMCA as a charity.

· Planning and Organizing: Establishes a clearly defined and effective course of action for self and others to accomplish short and long-term work goals.

· Problem Solving: Identifies an issue and works towards a solution.

· Self-Management: Works independently with minimal supervision.

Working Conditions

· As a YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick staff person, you are responsible for your own travel to and from work.

· The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick has a Joint Health and Safety Committee which meets on a monthly basis to discuss health and safety within the workplace. Questions or concerns about your workplace must be brought forward to committee members.

· As Housing Support Worker, you will be required to work in an environment which is often busy and at times fast-paced.

· You will be required to manage multiple activities on a regular basis.

· This position could require the staff person to sit for long periods of time.

· You will be responsible to follow and abide by YMCA Canada National Experience Program.

· Ensuring a clean and well-maintained center is required by all staff persons.