Community Support Worker (Regular Full-Time)

PLEA Community Services is currently seeking two (2) Regular Full-Time Community Support Workers for our FolkStone-Vancouver team. The proposed start date for these positions is as soon as possible. These positions require BCGEU membership.

The Community Support Worker assists clients with their physical, economic, vocational, recreational, social, emotional and daily life skills development. The Community Support Worker assists clients to achieve the greatest degree of independence and quality of life possible.

Position Type: Regular Full-Time
Location: Surrey, BC
Hours of Work: The usual hours of work in this position are Monday to Friday, 9:00AM to 5:00PM, based on 37.5 working hours per week.

Minimum Requirements: a Diploma in a related human/social services field, and at least one (1) year of recent, related experience.

Who We Are:

PLEA is an accredited, not-for-profit, charitable community services agency that has operated throughout BC for more than 40 years. We deliver high quality, innovative services to children, youth, adults, and families facing significant challenges in their lives. PLEA is an ally in reconciliation. The organization is committed to providing culturally safe programs and continuing to work  towards breaking down the barriers that cause harm to Indigenous people and communities.

What You Will Do:

• Participate in assessment, goal setting and program planning such as service plans for individuals. Document and implement the plan. Provide input into the evaluation of the program.
• Evaluate client needs and develop short term plans to meet such needs with the active participation of clients and their families.
• Assist clients to function more independently in their own homes and in the community. Assist clients with daily life skills, social skills and/or behaviour management. Teach and assist clients with activities such as grooming, basic cooking, money management, shopping, household safety, pet care. Facilitate physical, recreational, educational, social and vocational activities.
• Recognize, analyze and deal with potential emergency situations such as clients aggressive behaviour to minimize potential harm to the clients and/or the public. Report problems to their manager.
• Assist the clients in self-administering medication in accordance with established policy.
• Ensure health and safety standards are maintained.
• Review and evaluate clients progress and makes adjustments to programs as required. Provides feedback and support to clients and/or their families.
• Accompany and/or transport clients to activities such as appointments, shopping or leisure activities.
• Provide written and/or verbal reports regarding clients daily activities and progress. Ensure that all required documentation is complete and accurate.
• Identify social, economic, recreational, physical, vocational and educational services in the community that will meet clients needs. Maintain liaison with other agencies, professionals, government officials and the community.
• Protect and uphold confidentiality. Perform other related duties as required.

What You Will Bring:

• Effective communication skills, including the ability to write accurate notes.
• Good interpersonal skills, including the demonstrated ability to build effective relationships with clients, Family Caregivers, internal staff, professionals and families.
• Demonstrated ability to encourage adults to participate in community activities and follow client service plans.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, make sound decisions and be held accountable for results.
• Demonstrated ability to be sensitive and understanding of individuals social realities including issues of race, culture, religion, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, poverty and lifestyle.
• Demonstrated knowledge of issues and trends related to the program.

PLEA Benefits and Perks:

• Eligibility to enroll in health/welfare benefits on the first day of the month following the completion of the probation period.
• Education and Training Fund*
• Physical Activity Fund*
• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP): confidential and voluntary counselling support services and wellness resources.
• Discounted Membership Fees for Club 16 Trevor Linden and She's Fit.
• Employee Recognition Program (i.e., long service awards). 
• Agency-Sponsored Social Events (i.e., summer barbecue, annual holiday party, and team days).
• Perkopolis Membership - exclusive managed discount, reward, and benefits programs.

*these benefits are available to employees who are eligible for PLEA's health and welfare benefits.

Additional Requirements:

• Satisfactory Criminal Record Clearance.
• Must possess a valid Occupational First Aid Level 1 Certificate or be willing to obtain one prior to hire.
• Use of Personal Vehicle for work-related travel. This position requires travel in the Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley.
• A valid B.C. Driver's License (Class 5), and suitable driver's abstract.
• Documentation that applicant is legally approved to work in Canada. Our funding contracts require that successful applicants are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to their start date.

Please submit a resume and cover letter referencing the competition number 2024008YCW2. Closing date for Internal Applications: Friday, February 2, 2024, at 4:30PM. If the positions are not filled internally, they will remain open until filled.

Note: PLEA conducts primary source verification of applicant's credentials including education, training, work history, and licensure.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those shortlisted for an interview will be contacted.