Housing Counsellor

• Provide counselling to all participants in the Housing First (HF) and Uturn Common Spaces programs across various settings, including streets, shelters, hospitals, prisons, apartments, and offices.
• Build strong professional relationships with Uturn, Common Spaces, and agency HF and recovery teams to offer clinical perspectives and support for participants.
• Provide resources, referrals, and immediate problem-solving assistance to individuals and families.
• Proactively engage with participants and collaborate with their case managers to develop and regularly review personal development plans.
• Maintain a small caseload (minimum of 2 participants) and provide wraparound, individualized support including:
• Housing placement
• Unit rental and lease agreements
• Damage deposits and furnishings
• Income assistance applications
• Budgeting and financial literacy support
• Independent living skills
• Appointment escorts
• Integrated substance use counselling
• Vocational guidance
• Educate and advocate for participants regarding their rights and entitlements (e.g., income support, public assistance, and social services).
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case notes, statistics, reports, and required program documentation.
• Participate in Uturn check-ins and door-knocking outreach as scheduled.
• Be available for on-call and after-hours crisis support; notify the HF Coordinator and Housing Director in the event of a major incident.

• Use HIFIS daily for documentation and data entry.
• Submit reports in a timely and accurate manner.
• Attend weekly Housing/YFC staff meetings and monthly all-staff meetings.

• Maintain personal spiritual disciplines, including prayer and Bible reading.
• Actively participate in a community of faith.
• Engage in relevant trainings, conferences, and seminars for both spiritual and professional development.

• This role is supported through personal fundraising.
• Build and maintain a ministry partnership team.
• Communicate regularly with supporters through quarterly newsletters, phone calls, and visits.
• Conduct presentations to churches, individuals, and groups to share the mission and invite support.
• Participate in fundraising events such as the Annual Golf & Soccer Tournament and the Gala of Hope.

• Minimum: 20 hours per week (half-time)
• Opportunity: Up to 40 hours per week (full-time), depending on availability and fundraising.

• A one- to two-year commitment is recommended.

• Formal counselling credentials and relevant experience.
• Willingness to align with and sign the Youth for Christ Statement of Faith and Community Commitment.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including patience, empathy, compassion, and flexibility.
• Ability to maintain discretion, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Experience in frontline case management, mental health, addictions, housing, or community outreach.
• Knowledge of evidence-based, participant-centered, and harm reduction approaches.
• Familiarity with housing and income support systems in Brandon and the surrounding area.
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment.
• A confident self-starter with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Cultural awareness and ability to work respectfully with diverse populations; familiarity with Indigenous communities and issues in Manitoba is an asset.
• Valid driver’s license, access to a reliable vehicle, and willingness to travel locally.
• Must pass a criminal record check, including the Child Abuse Registry.

Youth for Christ