Community Outreach Worker

CMHA Kelowna & District is currently seeking to hire a full-time term Community Outreach Worker in our Community Roots Program until August 2027, with the possibility of extension based on funding. This position offers a 37.5 hour work week, Monday - Friday.

The Outreach Navigator increases outreach efforts to individuals sheltering outdoors. Navigators build and maintain positive relationships with individuals sheltering outdoors and provide light case management support, including advocacy and facilitating connections/referrals to other community services when appropriate. Additionally, Navigators administer government-mandated screening tools and offer crisis-oriented assistance to those experiencing emergencies, such as de-escalation and support during mental health crises or overdoses outside of the formal shelter setting.

• Conducts proactive outreach efforts to locate and engage individuals who are sheltering outdoors, focusing on those who have not accessed the Transitional Support Site or mainstream services
• Organizes supplies to create care kits including food, hygiene, and harm reduction items
• Performs regular food bank pick‑ups to collect food for kits, also picking up clothing or other supplies when donated in the community
• Develops strategies to establish trust and rapport with individuals to encourage their participation in support services
• Approaches each interaction with sensitivity, empathy, and cultural awareness to create a safe and supportive environment
• Identifies individuals' needs in various domains, including hygiene, food, housing, medical, substance use, and mental health
• Creates individualized service plans as needed to address specific needs and goals, working collaboratively with clients to determine appropriate action steps
• Regularly monitors and reviews clients' progress, adjusting support plans as needed
• Assists Case Managers as needed with moving clients in and out of their homes including packing, carrying, and moving client belongings
• Facilitates connections and referrals to other community services, including medical facilities, mental health services, social assistance programs, and substance use services
• Collaborates with relevant service providers to ensure seamless and coordinated support for clients
• Responds to crisis situations among individuals sheltering outdoors, including de-escalating tense situations and providing immediate assistance during mental health crises or overdoses
• Collaborates with emergency response teams, law enforcement, and medical personnel when necessary
• Maintains accurate and up‑to‑date communication log of all interactions, assessments, and services provided to clients
• Completes provincially mandated housing applications and screening tools (Supportive Housing Registry & Vulnerability Assessment Tool)
• Provides information for reporting on grants and funding to the Manager as needed
• Performs other related duties as assigned

• Grade 12 required
• Valid Class 5 BC driver's license and reliable vehicle required
• Reliable vehicle and ability to transport participants and travel between facilities and other locations daily
• Ability to provide a Driver's Abstract & ICBC Claims & Insurance History Record
• Ability to obtain Rate Class 007 Business Insurance
• Diploma in Human Service Worker or related field considered an asset
• Certificates in First Aid, CPR, Naloxone and Food Safe considered an asset
• Minimum 2 years work experience in addictions and mental health is preferred
• Experience working directly at street-level with individuals experiencing homelessness is preferred
• Ability to engage respectfully and develop rapport with individuals, with multiple barriers, through a harm reduction lens
• Listening and communication skills
• Understanding of and commitment to working with people experiencing mental health concerns and substance use
• Working knowledge of community-based resources
• Ability to complete tasks in a timely and efficient manner, utilizing good organizational skills
• Ability to maintain consistent professional boundaries, exercising mature judgment and…