Compassionate Support Worker for Vulnerable Populations

ONYINYE OKERE, Toronto, ON, 437-***-**** ️ *************@*****.***

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Compassionate and reliable Support Worker with over 2 years of experience supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, substance use, and complex social needs. Skilled in crisis intervention, de-escalation, supportive counselling, and harm reduction approaches. Experienced in maintaining safe environments, responding to emergencies, and supporting vulnerable populations in shelter and community-based settings. Committed to promoting stability, dignity, and well-being through trauma-informed and client-centered care.

CORE SKILLS

Crisis Intervention & De-escalation

Harm Reduction & Mental Health Support

Overnight Monitoring & Safety Checks

Risk Assessment & Emergency Response

Supportive Counselling

Client Engagement & Boundary Setting

Incident Reporting & Documentation

Conflict Resolution

Team Collaboration

First Aid & Emergency Response

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Supportive Service Worker (Placement)

Toronto Hotel Plaza – Shelter & Support Services, City of Toronto 2024 – Present

Provide front-line support to residents experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, and substance use

Conduct intake assessments and provide crisis intervention and de-escalation during high-risk situations

Support building safety by monitoring resident activity, conducting regular checks, and responding to incidents

Provide supportive counselling and emotional support to clients in distress

Enforce shelter policies and maintain professional boundaries to ensure a safe environment

Respond to emergency situations, including medical incidents and behavioral crises, following established protocols

Document all client interactions, incidents, and safety concerns in detailed case notes and reports

Collaborate with staff and community partners to support client stability and well-being

Frontline Worker

Point Care Solutions Agency - Toronto, ON 2024 – Present

Provide reception and frontline support in shelter settings, ensuring safety and security of clients and staff

Monitor client activity and respond to conflicts, crisis situations, and emergencies using de-escalation techniques

Conduct regular safety checks and environmental monitoring to maintain a secure setting

Support clients with access to food, shelter, healthcare, and community resources

Maintain accurate incident reports, logs, and documentation in compliance with policies

Work collaboratively with healthcare providers, emergency services, and shelter teams

Apply trauma-informed and harm reduction approaches when supporting clients

Developmental Support Worker

Elm Grove Living Centre - Toronto, ON 2023 – 2025

Supported individuals with developmental disabilities and complex behavioral needs in a residential setting

Assisted with activities of daily living (ADLs) including hygiene, meals, mobility, and personal care

Monitored and responded to behavioral and emotional changes, using de-escalation and crisis intervention strategies

Maintained a safe and structured environment, addressing risks and supporting client well-being

Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to implement individualized care plans

Documented client progress, incidents, and safety concerns

Personal Support Worker

Safe Umbrella Health Care –Toronto, ON 2022 – 2023

Provided direct care to residents with complex physical and mental health needs

Assisted with ADLs, mobility, and personal care while ensuring dignity and safety

Responded to medical and emergency situations, including first aid support

Monitored resident conditions and reported changes to healthcare staff

Maintained accurate documentation and followed care protocols

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE

Community Support Volunteer

St. Paul Catholic Church – Lagos, Nigeria -2006 – 2018

Supported food distribution and outreach programs

Assisted individuals facing hardship with basic needs and support

EDUCATION

Diploma – Social Service Worker (SSW) Seneca Polytechnic, Toronto - Completed April 2026

Diploma – Developmental Support Worker (DSW), Dominion College, Toronto - Completed August 2022

CERTIFICATIONS

Nonviolent Crisis Intervention

Safe Management Training

Working in the Homeless Shelter System – Centennial College

Psychological First Aid & Occupational Stress Reactions – City of Toronto

De-escalation & Crisis Intervention – City of Toronto

CPR & First Aid Certified

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