Position: Full-time Social Service Caseworker
Location: Mississauga
Application Deadline: May 26, 2022
Send resume, covering letter to: info@deensupportservices.ca

Position Description:

Working closely with the CEO and the Director of Programs and Facilities, responsible for the development, coordination, and implementation of our Peer Support Network Program for Racialized Persons with Disabilities.  Through DEEN’s current peer support networks, this position is responsible for responding to the needs of marginalized PWD, caregivers and families by bringing participants together to share ideas, resources, experiences, tips to navigate the pathway out of poverty, access opportunity/resources/boost social inclusion in a culturally sensitive environment.

The incumbent will provide families/caregivers supporting PWD with mental health counselling empowering them to thrive in community. Responsible for championing intentional, reciprocal, connected peer support communities with system navigation, coaching participants to self-advocate, access wrap-around services/resources with the overall goal to tackle/overcome poverty.

Boost PWD access to different opportunities to gain social connectedness/caregiver respite/resources in different languages, appropriate tools/webinars/workshops to navigate independence, safety, employment skills development support/personal growth, accessing disability support, financial workshops, housing information, mental health counseling, self-care/mental health/mindfulness, and through wrap around services. Support participants to get connected to appropriate services to alleviate precarious financial/housing circumstances. As an adaptable and flexible professional, the successful incumbent must be a team player with excellent communication skills to support IID, caregivers and families.

Duties and responsibilities:

  • Provide case support and practical support to participants by building strong relationships, providing informal counselling and emotional support information and referrals, community advocacy and accompaniments; crisis intervention and prevention;
  • Respond to PWD/families/caregivers mental health counselling needs, providing support, guidance, and counsel;
  • Assessing cases and compiling case reports containing relevant information; ensuring case reports are kept up to date;
  • Conduct weekly individual information counselling/peer support information network sessions (in-person and virtual);
  • Problem solve PWD individual barriers; connect them to appropriate services/resources; schedule follow-up appointments to disseminate information;
  • Act as a first responder for potential crisis situations including planned interventions and where needed, connect participants to appropriate supports/care;
  • Lead guided workshops on various topics to boost confidence, inclusion,  build resilience, self-advocacy skills;
  • Conduct in-person peer support network meetings/meet and greet events to bring people together;
  • Maintain accurate case management records and conduct statistical reporting/surveys;
  • Conduct targeted assistive technology training opportunities for PWD/caregivers and families;
  • With the support of the Director of Programs & Facilities, collect social identity project data;
  • Attend and actively participate in supervision and team meetings;
  • Communicate with individuals and families, as necessary;
  • Perform administrative tasks to facilitate accurate record keeping;
  • Facilitate other duties as assigned.

Education/Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services, Sociology, Inclusive Education, Counseling or Psychology;
  • Minimum 3 years work experience in the social service field;
  • Demonstrated achievements in coordinating community resources and accessing government and other resources;
  • Sensitivity and respect for diversity in all areas, including age, culture, and language;
  • Knowledge of disability issues, knowledge and understanding of the Independent Living Philosophy, community living and disability rights;
  • Demonstrated positive experience in a collaborative team setting;
  • English verbal and written communication skills required;
  • A second language in Arabic, Urdu, Somali, Punjabi, Gujarati, or French preferred;
  • Experience working or volunteering in a community-based, non-profit setting;
  • Demonstrated analytical, organizational, interpersonal, facilitation and communication skills;
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team; ability to work effectively under pressure, and meet deadlines;
  • Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office, other on-line systems, evaluation, and data analysis;
  • Contribute, monitor, and report on annual objectives and strategic plans;
  • Demonstrate good judgment and sound decision-making skills;
  • Previous experience working or volunteering with individuals with an intellectual disability preferred;
  • Experience in group facilitation (in person and virtual);
  • Performs other duties as assigned in accordance with organizational objectives;
  • Current Standard First Aid and CPR certification;
  • Driver’s license essential.

Send your resume and cover letter to: info@deensupportservices.ca including the position in the subject line. No phone calls please. Qualified candidates will be contacted. We thank all applicants in advance for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.