Vancouver Island Providence Community Association

1843 Tzouhalem RoadTel 250 746 4204

Duncan, BC V9L 5L6Fax 250 746

Relief Support Worker

The Organization:

Providence Farm is a therapeutic farm nestled at the base of Mount Tzouhalem in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Since 1979, the Vancouver Island Providence Community Association, a registered charity and non-profit society, has been operating creative and innovative programs at the Farm for adults in the Valley with mental health issues, brain injuries and development challenges.

Mission Statement:

Trusting in Providence, and building upon the faith-centered heritage of our founding members, we are committed to serving needs and fostering talents of people in the Cowichan Valley, especially of those not easily accepted elsewhere, through our therapeutic community at Providence Farm.

Our focus shall be upon the renewal of body and spirit, and upon people caring for the soil, and the soil nurturing the people.

Purpose of the Position:

Under the direction of the Programs Manager, the purpose of this position is to provide a safe, warm, challenging and rewarding therapeutic experience for individuals with disabilities and illnesses pertaining to mental health and substance use within our program areas.

Education, Skills & Abilities:

A combination of education and experience in the following areas is preferred:

  • Community Mental Health Worker Certificate
  • Community Support Worker Certificate
  • Experience working with adults and seniors with intellectual or developmental disabilities, mental health challenges and age-related illnesses
  • Non-Violent Communication
  • Non-Violent Crisis Intervention
  • First Aid and CPR
  • Criminal Record Check is required, specific to “vulnerable persons”
  • Valid Class 5 Driver’s License

In addition, we are looking for:

  • Interpersonal communication skills and the ability to foster positive relationships
  • Organizational skills
  • Flexibility and a spirit of teamwork and cooperation
  • Physical ability to work on a farm (e.g. walking, lifting, twisting, carrying)
  • Ability to function independently
  • Ability to take responsibility and solve problems
  • Ability to seek new opportunities, identify gaps and contribute to the Farm’s growth
  • Proficient time management skills
  • Ability to model a healthy lifestyle
  • A warm and empathetic presence

Duties & Responsibilities:

Program Responsibilities

  • Working with the Programs Manager, plan and develop daily activities for individuals with disabilitiesand illnesses pertaining to mental health and substance use.
  • Assess individuals’ progress and assimilation in the program.
  • Discuss program issues and debrief as needed and as requested.
  • Support and assist individuals in having a meaningful and enjoyable program experience.
  • Model and encourage a confidential, warm, friendly and safe environment for everyone involved.
  • Professionally represent the Farm in community outreach activities.

Reporting

  • Maintain regular case notes for assigned participants.
  • Complete and submit critical incident and accident reports when needed.
  • Participate in the staff assessment process as required.

Other Responsibilities:

  • Facilitate open interaction and problem solving between co-workers, clients, volunteers and staff.
  • Regularly check Farm e-mail and maintain appropriate levels of communication with Farm staff, participants and supervisors.
  • Assume additional responsibilities when agreed upon, at the request of the supervisor.
  • Attend in service training sessions when available.

Hours of Work:

Weekdays, casual, on-call basis. 9am -3pm shifts

Compensation:

$15.23 per hour.

Vacation pay per cheque at 4%

Temporary, Part-time position

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