Contract position

by

Job Description: Community Voices Facilitator
Organization: United Way of Bruce Grey
Position Type: Contract – 6-8 hours a month
Location: Bruce Grey Region

Position Summary

The Community Voices Peer Co-ordinator will facilitate and support the Community Voices Action Group of the Poverty Task Force under the direction of the United Way of Bruce Grey.

As a member of the Community Voices initiative, the Peer Support Worker will draw upon their lived experience and understanding of systemic barriers to foster trust, empower individuals, and advocate for meaningful change within the community.

Key Responsibilities

Peer Support and Advocacy

  • Provide group peer support to individuals with lived experience of economic and social challenges, fostering a non-judgmental and empathetic environment.
  • Share personal lived experiences when appropriate to build trust and rapport, offering hope and inspiration to others.

Community Engagement

  • Facilitate Community Voices meetings and participation of members in workshops or events to amplify the voices of those with lived experiences of poverty.
  • Facilitate discussions and forums that empower individuals to share their stories and contribute to the decision-making process.
  • Collaborate with Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force community partners, service providers, and government organizations to address systemic issues related to poverty and inequality.

Education and Training

  • Assist in the delivery of training sessions for Community Voices members and on poverty-related issues, using insights from lived experiences.
  • Provide feedback and input to improve community programs and policies that affect marginalized populations.

Documentation and Reporting

  • Maintain accurate and confidential records of peer support interactions, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and privacy standards.
  • Provide regular updates and reports to the Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force/United Way of Bruce Grey team on activities, outcomes, and identified community needs.

Qualifications

Essential

  • Lived experience of poverty, homelessness, or navigating systemic barriers, and the ability to reflect on and share these experiences in a professional setting.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trusting relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
  • Commitment to principles of equity, inclusion, and social justice.
  • Knowledge of community resources and services in the Bruce Grey region.
  • Basic computer literacy, including the ability to maintain records and communicate electronically.

Preferred

  • Previous experience in a peer support, advocacy, or community engagement role.
  • Familiarity with trauma-informed practices.
  • Experience facilitating groups or workshops.
  • Bridges Out of Poverty and/or Getting Ahead training

Personal Attributes

  • Empathy and compassion for individuals facing challenges.
  • Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
  • Resilience and self-awareness, with the ability to manage boundaries and seek support when needed.
  • Passion for social change and community empowerment.

Working Conditions

  • Flexible working hours, including occasional evenings or weekends as required.
  • Combination of office-based, remote, and community-based work, depending on the needs of the program.
  • Travel within the Bruce Grey region may be required.

Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume detailing their relevant experience and interest in the role to execdir@unitedwaybg.com. Applications will be accepted until March 19th 2025.

Community Voices of United Way Bruce Grey & Bruce Grey Poverty Task Force is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

Uncategorized