HOURS: The working hours are from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Who We Are

At Good Shepherd, we are committed to providing hope and enhancing dignity and self-determination for individuals and families. To learn more about Good Shepherd, visit our website at www.goodshepherdcentres.ca.

This opportunity is with our Good Shepherd - Seniors Support Services

Reporting to the Director of Seniors' Hospice Palliative Care Services, the Community Connector enhances the dignity and quality of life of clients by providing individualized support to vulnerable older adults, removing barriers to care, and identifying and supporting access to essential resources and services. The Community Connector works as part of the Seniors' at Risk in Hamilton (SaRiH) collaborative and is dedicated to assisting clients in achieving their optimal level of health and community function. The role involves working with older adults in their own homes and other community settings, including shelters, hospitals, congregate living locations.

How You Will Make an Impact

• To provide service in a dignified, culturally competent, anti-oppressive and respectful manner that reflects the charism of Good Shepherd Centres and which reflects an integrated anti-racism/anti-oppression framework.
• Partner with clients and other SaRiH partners in developing and executing a care plan that reflects client goals, priorities and needs
• Establish positive rapport with clients and provide individualized home/community-based supports geared to building optimal health, wellness, safety and inclusion for clients
• Facilitate timely client access to government supports, community services and resources including those related to health and wellness, appropriate/affordable housing, income support, food security, therapeutic recreation, or cultural activities.
• Provide referrals, advocacy and system navigation services that address client needs and goals
• Provide accompaniment into the community for activities and appointments that support the client's care plan
• Support client in developing and/or maintaining skills, confidence and knowledge in managing activities of daily living (e.g. personal hygiene, nutrition, home management, money management, medication compliance etc.)
• In partnership with the care team, engage in ongoing risk assessment, crisis prevention and intervention
• Encourage community engagement through the use of consumer-driven, self-help and special interest initiatives
• Engage in all communication and documentation processes put in place to ensure effective and timely communication and in accordance with all privacy regulations and requirements
• Maintain records, reports and statistics necessary for program operations, evaluation and audit
• Oversee student and volunteer placements in the program as required
• Responsible for participating in Good Shepherd's Health and Safety programs, procedures, procedures and work in compliance with the provisions of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations to minimize risk to clients, staff and others as well as to the property of the Good Shepherd
• To carry out all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Mission and Values of Good Shepherd Centres.
• To provide a work ethic in leadership and role modelling of behaviors that demonstrates the Mission, Vision and Values of Good Shepherd Centres.

What You'll Bring to Our Team

• Completed University degree or College diploma in social service/social work or an equivalent combination of education and experience, preferred
• Minimum of 3 years relevant experience in human and/or health services supporting older adults preferred.
• Knowledge of Ontario Health Links Model of Care harm reduction, trauma-informed care, anti-oppressive practice and motivational interviewing
• Demonstrated case management, assessment and crisis intervention skills
• Extensive knowledge of community resources and services, social and environmental determinants of health and community development processes
• Excellent knowledge of provincial legislation and processes to support persons who are victims of abuse, including the Office of the Public Guardian & Trustee
• Excellent verbal and written communication, computer, interpersonal and organizational skills
• Demonstrated ability to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team
• CPR/First Aid certification
• Valid Ontario drivers' license, and a vehicle insured for work are both required
• Committed to anti-racist/anti-oppressive practice and to the mission and values of Good Shepherd
• Fluency in a language in addition to English is an asset
• Demonstrated understanding of workplace health and safety practices and understanding of an employee's responsibility under current legislation
• Proven ability to work as a member of an intradisciplinary team, including evidence of supporting an environment of professional collegiality.
• Resourceful problem-solver with excellent communication and interpersonal skills required to effectively provide care in an interdisciplinary setting, excellent time management and ability to perform assigned duties with attention to detail.
• Demonstrated commitment to professional continuing education.
• Proficient in computer software such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint
• Good organizational skills and ability to prioritize workload.

What We Offer

• Be a part of a caring TEAM THAT SUPPORTS OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
• Support for continuing EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Staff recognition programs along with access to self-care supports and EMPLOYEE /
• FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP)
• POSITIVE and ENCOURAGING atmosphere
• Make a difference and provide HOPE
• Extended Health Benefits

Good Shepherd, a ministry of the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God, is an equal opportunity employer operating within an anti-racist and anti-oppression framework. We strive to establish workplaces that reflect and are enhanced by the rich diversity of the community we serve.

Good Shepherd welcomes and encourages applications from all people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. If you need accommodations, please contact Human Resources at 905-528-5877.

Good Shepherd has a mandatory verification of COVID-19 vaccination policy. More information on the full policy requirements and accommodation allowances will be provided to those selected for an interview.