Job Summary
This entry-level position offers significant experience for a future in social work, advocacy, addictions and other caregiver-related fields. Past Program Support staff have included nursing/medical students, as well as addiction and social workers.
Overview: Ark Aid is a Christian Mission serving the homeless and marginalized community in the city of London, Ontario. The Program Support and Safety Worker contributes to the Mission of Ark Aid Street Mission Inc., which identifies that in God’s love, we will facilitate opportunities for people to experience love, healing and liberation, by providing services to our community and building relationships with each individual.
Benefits & paid vacation are available to qualified positions after one year of service.
Key Responsibilities
- This position is an entry level position that has the potential of advancement to Program Support Lead with introduction to supervision positions
- Use de-escalation techniques to deal with any individuals who appear to be acting out or getting aggressive (training to be provided)
- Outreach services with community members, business and residential neighbours
- Adhere to Ark Aid Mission policies & procedures
- Communicate and act in accordance with the supervisor and other members of the staff (help with cleanup of program space and removal of members not in compliance.
- Deal with any emergency situations that may arise (naloxone training to be provided)
- Communicate with community members and staff to help with any needs the community may have (directing clients to the proper staff member to get the help they need)
- Help to keep the facility clean and safe for staff and community members
- Assist staff with any programs that may be run (e.g., home bus, ID clinic).
- Assist with encampment efforts.
- Assist with transportation, housing stability support, and food services.
- Assist with welcoming and hospitality, and other duties as assigned.
- Assist community members with navigating the system and advocating for their needs.
Job Requirements
A Program Support Worker should have the following skills, education and experience:
Education & Certifications:
- Related educational background is an asset, but not necessary
Experience:
- Experience working with the homeless/addictions/vulnerable populations.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Understanding of de-escalation, harm reduction and trauma-informed care
- Good communication skills are a must
- Understanding of other partner organizations that deal with homelessness, addiction, legal, medical, etc.
- Proficiency with common digital tools and platforms, including email communication, database management, basic spreadsheet functions, and formatting reports. Familiarity with Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive, Gmail, Calendar).
- Must be legally eligible to work in Canada, the employer is unable to support the immigration process.
Other Requirements:
- Criminal record check (VSC) completed
- Current First Aid/CPR
- Ability to be on your feet for long periods
- Ability to bend and lift to 25 lbs
Working Conditions:
Program and Outreach Workers at Ark Aid Mission operate in a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable environment. The role is primarily based within our community program space. It requires direct interaction with individuals from marginalized populations, including those experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, substance use, and other vulnerabilities.
Employees in this position may encounter:
- Exposure to emotionally heightened individuals, including those in crisis or exhibiting challenging behaviours.
- Potential exposure to medical emergencies, such as overdose situations or injuries requiring immediate response.
- Risk of second-hand exposure to drugs or drug paraphernalia, particularly in harm reduction or street-level service settings.
- Physical demands include standing or walking for extended periods, lifting to 25 pounds, and assisting in emergency or de-escalation scenarios.
- Emotional and psychological demands, requiring resilience, professional boundaries, and self-awareness.
*May be required to respond to emergency sheltering support during cold weather alerts.
Staff are expected to follow all health and safety policies, including training in de-escalation, overdose response (e.g., Naloxone administration), and trauma-informed care. Ark Aid Mission is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive work environment, in compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act, the Ontario Human Rights Code, and all applicable employment legislation.
AI Screening Notice:
Ark Aid Mission values a thoughtful and personal hiring process. All applications are reviewed directly by our hiring team, and we do not use artificial intelligence (AI) or automated systems to screen or filter candidates.
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Flexible schedule
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
