Part Time Community & Family Services Caseworker

The Family Services Caseworker will provide various services to community members in need while interacting in a positive and supportive manner, making referrals to other agencies and staff as appropriate, and supporting other programs and initiatives of Chatham-Kent Ministries.

ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Client Services:

• Conduct intake application and screen clients for LEAP, OESP, Entegrus, and general emergency assistance including food, clothing, household needs, referrals etc; as per funding allowance.
• Provide information and referral services as needed for clients
• Process vouchers for clients to receive clothing and household needs from our Thrift Stores.
• Provide a variety of casework duties, including analysis of data, statistical recordings, and ongoing case management as required.
• Through exercising empathetic care, assist individuals to determine an appropriate and mutually agreed upon goals; facilitate effective problem-solving behaviors of the client/family.
• Support, advocate for and refer clients to help empower them to become more self-sufficient.
• Develop and maintain a database list of services provided by external agencies to ensure clients receive support as needed.
• Develop and maintain ongoing engagement and/or involvement with community partners such as churches, schools, businesses, and other external agencies.
• Participate in community meetings and/or committees as directed by the Community & Family Services Director.
• Refer clients to Community & Family Services Director or Corps Officer for pastoral assistance.
• Assist as needed in maintaining an adequate food bank stock and an up-to-date inventory list.
• Assist as needed in appropriate food bank ordering process, i.e., submitting food orders, receiving, and reviewing food order for accuracy, and storing all products properly.
• Assist in ensuring all food products are handled, stored, and used appropriately, ensuring older products are used first.
• May need to assist with overseeing and coordinating Christmas toy and food hampers process i.e., receive applications, record applications in appropriate systems, pack and distribute hampers, etc.
• May assist in overseeing and coordinating food and toy drives throughout the year including Christmas season (i.e. Angel Giving Trees, Sponsor a Family, etc.).
• Periodically review assistance guidelines with Community & Family Services Director.
• Ensure that all clients are treated with dignity and respect.

Program Services:

• May be required to assist and support the organization and implementation of fundraising events, i.e., Christmas Appeal, Christmas Kettles, etc.
• May be required to participate, support, and/or attend fundraisers put on for The Salvation Army by various community partners.
• When asked by the CFS Director, participate and/or assist in recruitment, orientation, training, and supervising of volunteers at Chatham CFS.
• Work with other family services staff to maintain, promote and improve the profile of The Salvation Army in the community.

Administration:

• General administrative duties, answering phones, directing inquiries, photocopying, faxing, scanning documents, etc.
• Maximize utilization of all computerized management programs, i.e., Link2feed program and/or external programs, as necessary.
• Ensure client information is entered in a timely fashion as well as accurately on the Link2Feed program.
• Maintain accurate records of client information on computerized systems while maintaining confidentiality and prepare/provide statistical reports.
• Provide written reports as requested by management.
• Maintain information in confidence as required.

Training

• Participate in ongoing professional development and training.
• Participate in supervision and performance appraisal process.

Health and Safety

• Ensure that the food bank and area is maintained regarding appearance, condition and safety as recommended by Public Health etc. (i.e. record fridges and freezers temperature)
• Ensure the safety and comfort of the ministry unit by maintaining cleanliness and food safety etc.
• Work in compliance with OH&S Act and Regulations and abide by The Salvation Army's health and safety policies and procedures.

Perform other position-related duties.

Working Conditions:

• This is a permanent part-time position based on 24 hours per week.
• Hours of work will be scheduled from Monday through Friday between 8:30am - 4:30pm as per operational requirements and include 1/2 hour paid meal-break when applicable.
• Some flexibility in scheduling required, some weekend and evening work may be required.
• The Supervisor will set the hours of work and work schedule.
• Working environment is typically in the office in generally agreeable conditions.
• Ability to lift/move 20 lbs. on a regular basis.
• This job requires reaching, bending, and stooping frequently, working in a sitting, and standing position for periods of time.
• Some travel may be associated with this position.

• Completion of a two (2) year Community College Diploma in a human services field, i.e., Social Services Worker.
• Ability and willingness to obtain Safe Food Handling Certification.

EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE:

• More than one (1) year of prior related experience, including experience working with multi-barriered persons, individuals with mental health issues a variety of social service programs.
• Knowledge of community-based resources and experience networking with government and social service agencies.
• Valid Ontario Class "G" Driver's License, own vehicle, and insurance, is an asset
• Provide an original copy of current driver's abstract that is satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion, is required for driving MU Program vehicle.

Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered.

SKILLS AND CAPABILITIES:

• Proficient computer skills in all aspects of Microsoft Office.
• General office skills in record keeping and filing.
• Exceptional organizational, prioritizing and time management skills to effectively handle multiple priorities and meet competing deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Relationship building - Demonstrated ability to build positive, productive, and supportive relationships with the community, corps members, clients, and other staff.
• Client centered - Willingness to listen and learn from each client with compassion and dignity.
• Lead by example, by demonstrating a positive attitude, a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn and be flexible in the face of change.
• Maintain information in confidence as required.
• Exhibit good listening skills, have strong oral/written communication skills and respect authority.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, integrity, and adaptability.
• Represent the organization in a professional and engaging manner.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team with minimal supervision in a multi-faceted environment.
• Ability & willingness 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 Background Check with vulnerable sector screening.
• 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.

Please include the Job Title and Ministry Unit in your email subject line.

Interested applicants must respond in writing with a cover letter and resume.

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.