Job Description

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT WORKER

JOB DESCRIPTION

FULL TIME, REGULAR POSITION - 35 hours per week

SALARY: $50,000 ANNUALLY, HOOPP (HEALTHCARE OF ONTARIO PENSION PLAN), HEALTH BENEFITS

Join Us in Making a Meaningful Difference

At Fontbonne Ministries, we're more than just a workplace -- we're a community dedicated to fostering dignity and creating positive change. Founded on the inspiring legacy of the Sisters of St. Joseph, we're looking for passionate individuals who share our commitment to building a more inclusive and supportive society.

Why Choose Us?

Purpose-Driven Work

: Be part of transformative programs that directly impact the lives of socially isolated individuals in our community.

Inclusive Culture

: Join an organization that actively champions diversity and equity, where every team member's unique perspective is valued and celebrated.

Exceptional Benefits

: Secure your future with our comprehensive HOOPP pension plan, one of Ontario's most respected pension programs.

Our Vision & Impact

We're dedicated to nurturing community, dignity, and spirit through:

Building authentic connections with our community members Creating welcoming spaces where everyone belongs Driving positive social change through innovative programs

Our values guide everything we do:

Respect

: We celebrate each person's unique gifts and inherent dignity

Advocacy

: We lead positive change by responding to evolving community needs

Community

: We build strong, collaborative partnerships that create lasting impact

Compassion

: We provide personalized attention with empathy and understanding

Accountability

: We make sustainable choices that benefit future generations
If you're passionate about making a real difference while building a rewarding career with excellent benefits, we want to hear from you. Join our team and be part of a legacy of compassionate care and community building.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Reporting to the Director, Programs and Partnerships, the Community Engagement Worker is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with program participants, community members, and partner organizations. This role focuses on increasing community participation, facilitating access to services, developing and implementing outreach strategies, and creating opportunities for meaningful engagement that foster social connection and belonging.

AREAS OF ACCOUNTABILITY

Acting in accordance with Fontbonne Ministries' mission, vision, values, and policies in all dealings.

Community Outreach and Relationship Building

Develop and implement effective outreach strategies to connect with isolated or marginalized community members. Build and maintain relationships with diverse community members, organizations, and stakeholders. Act as a liaison between Fontbonne Ministries and the broader community, representing the organization at community events and meetings. Identify and engage with potential program participants who may benefit from our services. Create and nurture a welcoming environment that encourages participation and fosters a sense of belonging. Develop and maintain a network of referral sources and community partners.
Program Development and Implementation

Collaborate with the Social Worker and other team members to design, implement, and evaluate community engagement initiatives. Organize and facilitate community events, workshops, support groups, and social activities that respond to identified community needs. Develop culturally appropriate programming that reflects the diversity of our community. Create opportunities for community members to develop leadership skills and engage in meaningful volunteer roles. Support the implementation of asset-based community development approaches. Identify emerging community needs and trends, and develop responsive programming.
Participant Support and Advocacy

Provide information, referrals, and navigation support to help community members access needed services. Support program participants in building social connections and developing community belonging. Advocate for inclusion and accessibility in all community spaces and services. Assist participants in identifying and building on their existing strengths and assets. Support individuals with complex needs to participate fully in community life. Facilitate engagement opportunities for diverse community members, including those who face barriers to participation.
Community Capacity Building

Identify and nurture community members' skills, talents, and leadership potential. Create opportunities for peer support and mentorship among program participants. Facilitate community-led initiatives and social action projects. Support community members to become advocates and leaders in addressing local issues. Develop and implement skill-building workshops and training opportunities. Collaborate with community members to address barriers to participation and engagement.
Documentation and Evaluation

Maintain accurate records of outreach activities, participant engagement, and program outcomes. Document community needs, assets, and resources. Collect and analyze participant feedback to improve programs and services. Assist in evaluating the effectiveness of community engagement strategies. Contribute to reports for funders, management, and the Board of Directors. Track program statistics and prepare regular activity reports.
Other Responsibilities

Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development opportunities. Contribute to the development and implementation of organizational strategic plans. Remain current on social issues, community resources, and best practices in community engagement. Assist with other program activities as required. Support organizational events and fundraising initiatives. Perform other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION/TRAINING

Post-secondary education in Community Development, Social Service Work, Social Work, or related field. Training in community organizing, group facilitation, and/or asset-based community development an asset. First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain). Training in anti-oppression, diversity, and inclusion practices.
EXPERIENCE

Minimum 2 years of experience in community engagement, outreach, or community development. Experience working with marginalized or vulnerable populations. Experience designing and facilitating group activities and community events. Experience collaborating with diverse community stakeholders. Experience in a non-profit or social service setting.
SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE

Strong understanding of community development principles and practices. Knowledge of social justice issues and their impact on marginalized communities. Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills. Strong group facilitation and presentation skills. Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and stakeholders. Knowledge of community resources and services in Toronto. Understanding of barriers to participation faced by marginalized communities. Solid organizational and project management skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and social media platforms. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
ATTRIBUTES

Approachable and welcoming Creative and innovative Passionate about community building Empathetic and compassionate Flexible and adaptable Patient and persistent Respectful of diversity Collaborative team player Self-motivated and takes initiative Committed to social justice
WORKING CONDITIONS

Comfortable working in a faith-based environment. Work is primarily community-based with some office time. Requires travel throughout the community to conduct outreach activities. May require flexible hours including some evenings and weekends to accommodate community events and activities. May involve working in various community settings and environments. Physical requirements include sitting, standing, walking, and setting up for community events.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Company pension Dental care Employee assistance program Life insurance On-site parking Paid time off Vision care
Education:

Secondary School (required)
Experience:

community development or social work: 2 years (required) non profit work: 2 years (required) community organizing and development: 2 years (required) designing and facilitating group activities: 2 years (required)
Work Location: In person