The Gay Men's Sexual Health Coordinator, reporting to the direct supervisor of the Sexual Health
department, will play a pivotal role in fostering synergy between our Sexual Health program and our
2S-LGBTQ+ initiatives. Primary responsibilities will include disseminating vital information, conducting workshops, and offering subject matter expertise to ensure the sexual health needs of men who have sex with men are addressed comprehensively. The GMSH Coordinator will spearhead the implementation of provincial Gay Men's Sexual Health (GMSH) campaigns, amplifying their reach and impact within our community. This role presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to the well-being and empowerment of gay men by bridging critical gaps in sexual health awareness and accessibility. 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
- Engage in and promote the provincial GMSH campaigns and other relevant initiatives.
- Attend meetings, events, and training opportunities facilitated by the Gay Men's Sexual Health Alliance and the Ontario AIDS Network.
- Provide STBBI workshops to priority populations (PWUD, underhoused folx, BIPOC communities, People engaging in Sex Work, service providers of these demographics, etc.) through various mediums (live workshops, virtual workshops, self-guided recordings, etc.) in collaboration with organizations and communities across Simcoe County and Muskoka.
- Develop and implement social and support groups for individuals and couples living with and affected by HIV, with a specific focus for queer, gay, bi, trans masculine, and all forms of men who have sex with men (including sex work, party and play, and other lived experiences).
- 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.
- Provide in-person and online outreach through platforms such as Grindr, Squirt, Scruff, and traditional social media platforms that promote the health of diverse communities of men who have sex with men who are living with and affected by HIV and other STBBI's.
- 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 working 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 meaningfully engaging and supporting systemically marginalized communities, including the 2S-LGBTQ+, People Who Use Drugs (PWUD), sex workers, and individuals experiencing homelessness. The GMSH Coordinator will work to ensure that these populations receive the necessary support and resources.
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.