Community & Family Services Worker

Who We Are

For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here.

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Job Description:

Position Purpose summary:

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

Accountabilities:

Client Services and Programs

• Conduct initial intake application and screen clients for general emergency assistance, including food, clothing household needs, referrals etc. 
• Refer clients to other community resources or Corps Officer for pastoral assistance where appropriate.
• 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.
• 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, Camp Programs; aid with other programs as required.              
• Refer clients for pastoral support as required.

Supervision

• Provide 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.
• In consultation with the Supervisor may organize regular meetings with volunteers.

Finance & 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.
• Periodically review program assistance guidelines with supervisor.
• Maintain accurate records of client information in Link2Feed and on The Salvation Army’s computer system while maintaining confidentiality.

• 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.

Perform other related duties as required.

CRITICAL RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT

Governance Boards and Councils: None

Internal:

• Corps Officer, supervisor(s), staff, volunteers.
• Participate in regular staff meetings to review operational effectiveness, changes in policies and procedures, and in-service training.

External:

• Community, clients, Government, and community social service agencies.

MANAGERIAL/Technical Leadership RESPONSIBILITY:

• This position reports directly to the Manager of Community Services or designate.
• This position has no direct reports.
• May assist in the development of strategies and recommendations for volunteer development.

FINANCIAL AND MATERIALS MANAGEMENT

• Handle grocery store cards.

• Oversee food bank materials management such as donations/product flow and distribution of same.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• This is a permanent part-time position based on 22.5 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 Community and Family Services or community partners office/food bank distribution areas or at community programs 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.

Normal hours of work: Scheduled as per hours of operation Monday to Friday, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This includes a ½ hour unpaid meal break each day.  The hours of work and hours of operation are subject to review as required. 

Please note there may be a seasonal temporary increase in hours to a maximum of 40 hours per week for a short period of time during the months of November and December and includes a ½ hour unpaid meal break as required. Extra hours will include evening and weekend work.

Normal locations of work:           588 Gustavus St., Port Elgin, ON

The above responsibilities must be performed in keeping with The Salvation Army’s Mission, Vision, and Values, in a professional manner, upholding our code of conduct.

education and experience Qualifications:

Education, Qualifications and Certifications:

• Completion of a Community College Diploma, Social Service Worker, counselling, or equivalent in a related field of study
• Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Experience and Skilled 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 provide a valid Safe Food Handlers Certification.
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Certificate preferred.
• 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.

Compensation:

The target hiring range for this position is $20.09 to $25.11 with a maximum of $30.13.

Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role.

The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please email [email protected] if you have a need for any accommodation and we will be pleased to discuss this with you.