Job Description

Community Advocate

Do you have a passion for social justice? Are you someone who enjoys helping people find solutions to barriers that they are facing? Are you ready to be part of an amazing team of passionate people? If so, you may be a good fit for The Access Centre.

This role needs a person who has a positive attitude and is emotionally resilient.

JOB SUMMARY

The Community Advocates use social justice, trauma informed care and cultural competency to work with low-income individuals to break down barriers by filling gaps in service and supporting in navigating complex systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Assist with Federal & Provincial Disability applications Assist in filling out government and other forms Connect and refer people we serve to appropriate agencies and services Provide assistance and referrals to individuals, families and community groups by identifying their needs and empowering them to plan and take appropriate action Provide culturally sensitive confidential support, advocacy, referrals and resource information relevant to poverty issues/crises within specific rural areas of the South Okanagan Similkameen Maintain complete and accurate statistics and records for all program activities Perform administrative duties including file management and reporting to organizational standards Provide outreach advocacy at supportive housing locations

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS, AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

Requirements:

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written Critical thinking & decision making Highly self-motivated, flexible and resilient Personable, able to build trusting relationships with people we serve, Access team and community partners Knowledge of, or an openness to learn about: substance use; chronic emotional & physical pain; complex mental health conditions; poverty issues and systemic marginalization Ability to manage confidential information Ability and desire to work with diverse populations Ability to set professional boundaries Must be willing to submit a Criminal Record Check
Assets:

Knowledge of local resources, healthcare systems and social systems (knowledge of MSDPR, Service Canada, Service BC, the CRA and Interior Health is a strong asset) Mental health First Aid Knowledge of the South Okanagan/Similkameen Region Knowledge of the various government forms (CPP/Disability forms etc ) Community development knowledge
We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds, genders and abilities.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 32 per week

Benefits:

Casual dress Dental care Employee assistance program Extended health care Mileage reimbursement Paid time off
Ability to commute/relocate:

Penticton, BC: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Work Location: In person

Expected start date: 2025-08-04