The Linkage to Care Coordinator, reporting to the direct supervisor of the Sexual Health department, plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between our Harm Reduction services and Sexual Health supports. This position is responsible for conducting outreach and in-reach activities across Simcoe Muskoka to identify individuals who could benefit from our services and effectively connect them to the care they need. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, along with a deep understanding of the intersection between harm reduction, sexual health, and social determinants of health. This position is office based.

The Gilbert Centre is a registered, not-for-profit, charitable organization that was incorporated in 1995 in response to the HIV epidemic in Simcoe County and Muskoka Region. The mandate of the Centre has broadened to not only support people at risk of, living with, and affected by HIV and other sexually transmitted and blood borne infections (STBBIs), but to also support and celebrate the lives of the 2S-LGBTQ+ communities in our regions. Gilbert Centre covers a large catchment area encompassing a significant geographic territory with a mix of small and mid-sized urban environments and rural settings.

Key Role and Responsibilities

• Coordinates the delivery of programs based on needs identified, using already available services provided by community partner agencies as well as programs developed within Gilbert Centre.
• Collaborate with local health care providers such as the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit to ensure newly diagnosed individuals living with HIV are connected to the Gilbert Centre's services.
• Collaborate with priority population service providers, including Indigenous, newcomer, and other non-mainstream organizations to support HIV/STBBI awareness and knowledge translation efforts.
• Maintain and expand client base through strategic outreach, engaging community activities, developing relevant outreach materials, and collaboration with other Gilbert Centre programs while expanding and promoting community networks.
• Provide group support and group education sessions through various mediums (live workshops, virtual workshops, self-guided recordings, etc.).
• Facilitating supportive transition through a continuum of care, including collaboration with colleagues, providing HIV and STBBI point of care tests, promoting pathways to PrEP and PEP, and maintaining strong working relationship with health care providers that provide HIV, STBBI, and trans or gender diverse related health care.
• Engage various professional development, collaboration, networking, and relationship building with relevant campaigns and networks, such as the Positive Leadership Development Institute, the Women HIV/AIDS Initiative, the Ontario AIDS Network, Gay Men's Sexual Health Alliance, etc.
• Conduct outreach and in-reach through in-person and online platforms which promotes the health of diverse communities for those living with and affected by HIV and other STBBI's. A specific focus on populations which may benefit from HIV testing, prevention, and workshops/educational resources.
• Distribute safer sex supplies, information, and resources across Simcoe County and Muskoka.
• Maintain, contribute to, and utilize a referral list for individuals to access ‘safe' external resources such as mental health professionals in the area.
• Assist with planning World AIDS Day event(s), the Red Scarf Campaign, and other HIV related community events.
• Embodies, supports, and engages with GIPA/MEPA principles and activities.
• Utilize various funder reporting tools (i.e. OCHART/OCASE/TREAT) in accordance with program tracking and evaluation measures, and prepare relevant reports as needed.
• Monitors and evaluates program activities with the community and makes recommendations for appropriate changes as needed.
• Meets regularly with program staff to facilitate and maintain effective working relationships.
• Contributes to the home-like atmosphere of the Gilbert Centre through interacting with participants, Ambassadors, volunteers, and participates in community programming activities when available.
• Collaborates with Gilbert Centre management and staff on projects and activities that strengthen the Centre's programs and services, including team meetings and organizational events.
• Other administrative and operational duties and responsibilities as required.

Skills, Ability and Qualifications Required

• Formal education in a relevant field of study (social science, health promotion, social work, adult education, or any related field) and/or the equivalent combination of lived, education, and work experience.
• At least one year experience in coordinating programming in the HIV/STBBI, 2S-LGBTQ+ communities, non-profit, or health promotion fields.
• An understanding of health and social issues and factors relevant to people living with or affected by HIV and other STBBIs, 2S-LGBTQ+ communities, PWUD, and a personal comfort discussing sex and sexual health related topics.
• Demonstrated commitment to community development, engagement, and accountability practices.
• Ability to work independently and on a flexible schedule.
• Excellent computer skills, with the ability to use a variety of software (Microsoft 365 products, SharePoint, MS Teams, Zoom, social media platforms, etc.)
• Commitment to social justice, diversity, equity, and anti-oppression principles.
• Excellent communication, including written and verbal presentation skills, group facilitation, diplomacy, act as an effective liaison, interpersonal skills, and proficiency in English with French is an asset.
• A valid driver's license with regular access to a vehicle for work-related duties is required.
  

Additional information about the position This role is essential for engaging and supporting systemically marginalized communities, including the 2S-LGBTQ+, People Who Use Drugs (PWUD), sex workers, and individuals experiencing homelessness. The Linkage to Care Coordinator will work to ensure that these populations receive the necessary support and resources, bridging the gap between harm reduction services and sexual health supports in Simcoe Muskoka.

Interested staff members are encouraged to apply by submitting their resumes to the designated contact person as indicated on the posting.

As an equal opportunity employer, we value diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. The successful candidate will be selected in accordance with the terms outlined in the collective agreement.