Community Care Specialist

360 kids has been a leader in the delivery of innovative support services for over 30 years as we work to improve the lives of homeless and at-risk youth and families in York Region.

We are a vitally important community agency serving all of York Region.

At 360 kids, we provide a unique continuum of care approach with a range of programs and services that are essential to the health and well-being of youth and that are proven strategies for helping to keep youth off the streets by providing safe housing options.

Base 4 Success (B4S) is a 12-week employment readiness initiative designed for high-needs, unemployed, and out-of-school youth in York Region, ages 15 to 30.

The program supports young people in overcoming barriers to employment by providing: Skill-Building Workshops and Certifications.

The Employment Specialist will plan and execute career counselling and skill building programming to provide youth with skills to obtain and maintain employment and successfully transition youth into the labour market.

The Employment Specialist plays a vital role in delivering the B4S program by developing and facilitating career development and employability programming.

Facilitating employment skill-building workshops and coordinating certifications.

Supporting youth in accessing and navigating hands-on work opportunities.

In addition, the Employment Specialist ensures that youth participants are connected with the appropriate wraparound supports, including referrals to community resources, mental health counselling, housing support, and other advocacy services as needed.

By providing personalized guidance and support, the Employment Specialist helps youth build the confidence, skills, and connections required to achieve meaningful employment outcomes.

Review participants’ educational and personal histories to inform career planning.

Identify skills gaps and collaboratively develop strategies for skill development and personal growth.

Design and deliver interactive workshops tailored to the unique needs of higher-needs youth.

Topics may include job search strategies, resume writing, interview preparation, career exploration, budgeting, time management, communication, problem-solving, self-care, stress management, and leadership development.

Obtain program materials and supplies such as transit passes, backpacks, and healthy snacks for training sessions.

Maintain up-to-date participant records, case notes, documentation and databases (internal/external) in accordance with organizational protocols.

Community Engagement & Employer Relations: Conduct outreach and marketing to promote the program to employers and community partners.

Develop partnerships with local businesses and community resources to provide participants with real-world customer service and employment experiences.

Offer extended support and guidance to employers mentoring youth with mental health and other support needs.

Collaborate closely with internal staff and other 360 kids programs to ensure integrated support and program success.

Perform additional duties as required to support the success of the B4S program and the broader mission of 360 kids.

Post-secondary degree or diploma in a social services-related field (e.g., Social Work, Child and Youth Work, Social Service Work), or an equivalent combination of education and experience supporting higher-needs youth.

Proven experience working with street-involved youth and awareness of issues related to youth homelessness, mental health, trauma, abuse, addiction, and sexual exploitation.

Strong client-focused counselling skills with the ability to serve as a positive role model for youth.

Flexible and adaptable approach to service delivery, with sensitivity to the unique needs of each youth participant.

Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with clients, team members, community agencies, employment partners, and other stakeholders.

Thorough understanding of available community resources within York Region, with strong advocacy and referral skills.

If you are a member of an equity-deserving group and feel comfortable sharing this with us, we welcome you do so.

This information is completely voluntary and will be used solely to help us improve our hiring practices and workplace inclusivity.

Accommodation will be provided throughout the hiring process in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Upon joining 360 kids, you'll be welcomed into a fun and collaborative environment where we truly value our employees and want to see them succeed.