In this position, you will engage in collaborative work within the community, with: HAMSMaRT, Refuge Newcomer Health, Shelter Health Network, Canadian Mental Health Association and Good Shepherd, Hamilton as part of the Primary Care Access and Attachment Team (PCAAT). This team will be focused on connecting with vulnerable populations to increase access and attachment to Primary Care.

The Community Connector will be working within PCAAT, a community-based hub of interdisciplinary professionals providing on-the-spot care to clients, collaborating with their circles of care, and improving overall health outcomes of marginalized individuals. The Community Connector will work with all members of this team and their clients through systems navigation, coordination of services, and transportation assistance.

The work of PCAAT is based on a fundamental belief in promoting hope and dignity to the most under-served members of our community. You will be working with our patients/clients, visitors, and staff by providing comprehensive primary healthcare services, including health promotion, disease prevention, treatment of injury and illness, consultation, and support.

Good Shepherd and PCAAT are committed to integrating Harm Reduction into our all of our services and to prioritizing the rights, dignity, and choices of those who use substances. By integrating a Harm Reduction framework within PCAAT, we can decrease barriers to service and better support some of our community's most marginalized members.

How You Will Make an Impact

• Partner with clients of PCAAT in developing and executing a plan of care that reflects client 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 community services and resources including those related to health and wellness, appropriate/affordable housing, income support, food security, therapeutic recreation, faith or cultural activities etc.;
• Provide referrals, advocacy and system navigation services that address client needs and goals;
• 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

What You'll Bring to Our Team

• Post-secondary education in social services or a related field
• Have strong knowledge of Hamilton community services and resources, harm reduction, and motivational interviewing
• Understand and be comfortable working from a person-centered, trauma-informed approach
• Minimum 1 year of experience working in community outreach or emergency shelter
• Fluency in a 2nd language is an asset
• CPR certification or willingness to be certified is required
• Valid G license required
• Excellent interpersonal and conflict resolution skills
• Committed to anti-racist/anti-oppressive practice and to the mission and values of Good Shepherd
• Demonstrated understanding of workplace health and safety practices and understanding of an employee's responsibility under current legislation.

HOURS - if applicable: Regular Part Time Weekdays

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 ENCOURAGINGatmosphere
• Make a difference and provide HOPE

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.