Community 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 Services Worker provides direct support to individuals and families seeking assistance through The Salvation Army St. Catharines (Welland) Community Services programs or who have been referred for support. The incumbent conducts client intake and assessment, connects clients with appropriate resources and services, and assists in addressing immediate needs. This position also supports the operation of the Food Bank Program and contributes to the delivery of other Community Services programs and initiatives, ensuring services are provided in a respectful, compassionate, and client-centered manner.

In addition, the Community Services Worker provides operational guidance and oversight to volunteers, ensuring that established policies, procedures, and standards are consistently followed.

Accountabilities:

Client Services and Programs

• Conduct initial client intake and needs assessments to identify immediate requirements and appropriate supports.
• Provide emergency assistance services, including food, clothing, household necessities, and other supports in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Coordinate the Adopt-A-Family program and other community initiatives, ensuring that program objectives are achieved and that The Salvation Army's mission and a spiritual focus are integrated into all activities.
• Oversee the day-to-day operation of the food bank, including maintaining cleanliness and organization, monitoring inventory levels, receiving, and sorting donations, and assisting clients with food bank services.
• Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with government agencies, community organizations, and social service providers to facilitate referrals and coordinate resources that support client and program needs.

Volunteer Coordination

• Recruit, orient, train, schedule, supervise, and support volunteers as required. Demonstrate work methods and foster a collaborative environment that supports the organization's mission and ministry objectives.
• Assist in the development and implementation of volunteer recruitment, retention, and recognition strategies.
• Facilitate regular volunteer meetings, training sessions, and communication opportunities.

Finance and Administration

• Ensure Ministry Unit policies and procedures are followed regarding the safe and secure handling of monetary donations, gift cards, vouchers, and other program-related resources, maintaining appropriate documentation and records.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, statistics, activity logs, and reports as required.
• Review program eligibility criteria and assistance guidelines with the supervisor on a regular basis to ensure consistency and compliance.
• Maintain confidential and accurate client records within Link2Feed and other required databases, ensuring compliance with privacy and confidentiality standards.

Health and Safety

• Ensure that the food bank and area is maintained regarding appearance, condition and safety as recommended by Public Health etc.
• 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 related duties as required.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• This is a temporary part-time position based on 16 hours per week.   
• Schedule may vary according to requirements of responsibilities; some flexibility is required as it relates to hours of work. 
• Working environment is typically in the office in generally agreeable conditions.
• Be able to lift/move up to 30 pounds.
• This job requires reaching, bending, and stooping frequently, working in a standing position for periods of time.
• Some travel is associated with this position up to 10% to pick-up food donations from stores and warehouses.

Normal hours of work:  Monday’s and Thursday’s, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and includes a ½ hour unpaid meal break.  The Supervisor will set the hours of work and work schedule.

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, Qualifications and Certifications:

• Completion of a post-secondary program of two academic years, i.e. Social Service Worker, or related field of study.
• Current Safe Food Handlers Certification is required.
• Current Certification in First Aid & CPR would be a definite asset.
• Valid Ontario Class “G” Driver’s License, own vehicle and insurance, is needed.

Experience and Skilled Knowledge Requirements

• Minimum of two (2) years of prior related experience working with multi-barriered persons, individuals with mental health issues and a variety of social service programs and supervisory  experience.
• Knowledge of community-based resources and experience networking with government and social service agencies. 
• Proficiency in all Microsoft Office products is required - i.e. Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, etc.

Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Skills and Capabilities:

• Treat the property of The Salvation Army with due care and caution.
• Ability to maintain information in confidence and exercise good judgement.
• Must comply with all Salvation Army policies, procedures, and associated legislation.
• Ability to work independently and participate as an active and responsible team member in a cooperative team environment.
• Represent the organization in a positive, professional and engaging manner.
• Exhibit good listening skills, have strong oral/written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, integrity, and adaptability.
• Ability to use tact and diplomacy when dealing with the public, both in person and on the telephone.
• Lead by example, by demonstrating a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn.
• Adaptable, proactive, a self-starter and the ability to work independently.
• Ability to learn, adapt, and utilize technology and processes quickly.
• Ability to prioritize, organize and manage multiple tasks; the ability to complete assignments and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• 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 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.

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.