Aboriginal Homeless Outreach Program Coordinator
Purpose: The Aboriginal Homeless Outreach Program Coordinator is responsible for planning, organizing, directing, coordinating, and administering outreach services, tenancy supports, and housing stabilization programs for Indigenous individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The Coordinator ensures that all program activities are delivered in accordance with organizational policies, funding requirements, and Indigenous cultural values while promoting safe, stable, and sustainable housing outcomes.
The Coordinator works collaboratively with tenants, community partners, service providers, government agencies, and Indigenous organizations to address barriers to housing and support participant well-being. Through a trauma-informed, culturally safe, and client-centered approach, the Coordinator advocates for individuals and families while ensuring fair, equitable, and respectful treatment of all program participants.
Scope: The Aboriginal Homeless Outreach Program Coordinator operates within a complex and politically sensitive environment where historical and ongoing impacts of colonization, racism, discrimination, systemic oppression, poverty, mental health challenges, addictions, and homelessness affect the lives of clients and communities.
The Coordinator must maintain a holistic and strengths-based approach that recognizes the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual needs of Indigenous peoples. This position requires sound judgment, confidentiality, cultural awareness, conflict resolution skills, and the ability to build trusting relationships with diverse stakeholders.
The Coordinator is responsible for coordinating outreach activities, supporting tenancy sustainability, facilitating access to community resources, maintaining accurate program documentation, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies and funding agreements. The position also serves as a key liaison between clients, landlords, service providers, Indigenous communities, and government agencies to promote housing stability and positive community
Accountability: The Coordinator reports directly to the Executive Director and submits monthly reports for Board information.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Education and Experience
- Certificate, Diploma, or Degree in Human Services, Social Work, Indigenous Studies, Community Support, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant work experience.
- Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, housing instability, mental health challenges, addictions, and other complex social issues is considered an asset.
- Experience working with Indigenous communities and knowledge of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and histories is preferred.
Knowledge
- Comprehensive knowledge of the social services sector, housing programs, homelessness prevention initiatives, and community-based support services.
- Understanding of trauma-informed practice, harm reduction principles, cultural safety, and client-centered service delivery.
- Knowledge of community resources, funding programs, referral processes, and support systems available to Indigenous individuals and families.
- Understanding of tenancy rights and responsibilities, landlord-tenant relations, and housing support services.
- Knowledge of local Indigenous communities, organizations, and service providers.
Skills and Abilities
- Ability to effectively plan, organize, coordinate, and manage program resources and caseloads.
- Strong leadership, organizational, problem-solving, negotiation, and decision-making skills.
- Excellent oral, written, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to build positive relationships with clients, community partners, landlords, service providers, government agencies, and Indigenous organizations.
- Ability to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a team.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and respond appropriately to sensitive and complex situations.
- Strong conflict resolution, advocacy, and crisis intervention skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.
- Experience using the Homeless Individuals and Families Information System (HIFIS) is an asset; training will be provided.
- Ability to maintain accurate records, case notes, reports, and program documentation.
Requirements
- Valid BC Class 5 Driver's Licence and access to reliable transportation.
- Successful completion of a Criminal Record Check.
- Valid Occupational First Aid Certificate or willingness to obtain one upon hire (training provided).
- Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends, as required to meet program needs.
Job Types: Permanent, Full-time
Pay: $27.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Vision care
Flexible language requirement:
Application question(s):
- Would you be a good fit to be an Outreach Worker for the Homeless?
Work Location: In person
