About Company
Unlock your potential in community service. Career.zycto specializes in connecting compassionate individuals with vital roles that foster genuine impact and positive change across Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods. We believe true career satisfaction comes from contributing to a better society, and for Street Outreach Support Workers, this means directly engaging with those most in need. Join us and discover a supportive environment where your empathy and dedication are valued, empowering you to build essential bridges within the Leslieville community. Career.zycto is your partner in finding purpose-driven work that truly matters.
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Job Description
Career.zycto is proud to partner with a leading community services organization in Leslieville, Toronto, dedicated to supporting vulnerable populations and fostering community well-being. We are actively seeking a compassionate and resilient Street Outreach Support Worker to join their dynamic team. In this pivotal role, you will be on the front lines, engaging directly with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, and substance use issues within the Leslieville area. Your primary mission will be to build rapport, offer immediate support, and connect individuals with essential services such as shelter, food, healthcare, and housing resources. This is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those often overlooked, providing a beacon of hope and practical assistance. The work is challenging yet immensely rewarding, requiring a high degree of empathy, strong communication skills, and an unwavering commitment to advocacy. You will work independently and as part of a supportive team, navigating complex situations with cultural sensitivity and a non-judgmental approach. If you are passionate about social justice, community development, and possess the resilience to work in diverse and sometimes unpredictable environments, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the chance to contribute significantly to a healthier, more inclusive Leslieville. We are looking for someone who thrives on direct community engagement and is driven by a desire to uplift others. Join us in strengthening our community, one connection at a time.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct regular street outreach in designated Leslieville areas to identify and engage with individuals experiencing homelessness and other vulnerabilities.
- Build and maintain trusting relationships with service users through consistent, respectful, and non-judgmental interactions.
- Provide immediate crisis intervention and de-escalation support when necessary, ensuring the safety of individuals and the community.
- Assess individual needs and provide information, referrals, and accompaniment to appropriate support services (e.g., shelters, food banks, healthcare, harm reduction, mental health support, housing programs).
- Assist individuals in navigating complex service systems and completing necessary paperwork for accessing benefits or housing.
- Advocate on behalf of service users to ensure their rights are respected and their needs are met.
- Maintain accurate, confidential client records and prepare detailed reports on outreach activities.
- Collaborate effectively with internal teams, partner agencies, and emergency services.
- Participate in team meetings, training, and professional development opportunities.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 1 year of experience in social services, outreach, community support, or a related field.
- Demonstrated understanding of harm reduction principles, mental health first aid, and trauma-informed care.
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to build rapport quickly.
- Strong crisis intervention and de-escalation skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team in challenging environments.
- Proficiency in basic computer applications for record-keeping and communication.
- Valid G-class driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle is preferred, or strong comfort with public transit and walking long distances.
- Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse populations and lived experiences.
Preferred Qualifications
- Post-secondary education (diploma or degree) in Social Work, Community Development, Psychology, or a related discipline.
- Knowledge of local Leslieville and Toronto community resources and support networks.
- Experience working with Indigenous communities, newcomers, or LGBTQ2S+ individuals.
- Fluency in additional languages relevant to Toronto's diverse population.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
- Generous paid time off and sick days.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- Supportive and collaborative team environment.
- Access to an employee assistance program (EAP).
- Making a direct, meaningful impact in the community.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience and passion for community outreach. Please click on the application link below to apply for this vital role.
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