Program Assistant - Canada Summer Jobs

As this role is being funded by the Canada Summer Jobs program, the following are eligibility requirements:

• You are between 15 and 30 years of age at the start of the employment
• You are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (foreign students are not eligible)
• You are legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial/territorial legislation and regulations
• You have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations

What will be your role?

To provide program support, coordination and scheduling to the portfolio during staff absences or high-volume situations. To perform all intake functions: receive, assess and process all requests for service from potential clients and referral sources, provide information regarding the criteria for service, the range of services offered and referrals to other community services, provide and participate in outreach activities. Participates in VHA services and quality initiatives.  All activities are conducted within the policies, procedures and standards of VHA.

Key Areas of Accountability:

• Conduct intake assessments to determine program eligibility, including gathering client information, identifying presenting needs, assessing risks and safety concerns, completing required documentation, and explaining program expectations and available supports.
• Provide ongoing client support, including follow-up check-ins, coordination of services, and referrals to internal and external resources as needed.
• Monitor and track client data for evaluation and reporting purposes, ensuring accuracy and timely entry into the database.
• Attend and actively participate in weekly case review meetings, offering updates, insights, and recommendations for client care plans.
• Conduct program outreach and promotion to community agencies, partners, and potential clients to increase awareness and engagement.
• Participate in service education/training sessions to maintain current knowledge, enhance skills, and support best practices.
• Maintain clear, timely, and professional documentation in accordance with program standards and organizational policies.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to support integrated service delivery and address client needs holistically.

Key Skills, Experience and Behaviours Required for this Position:

• Possess or in a social Service Worker diploma/program or a degree in Social Work
• Knowledge of community health care administration is an asset
• Knowledge of the community health and mental health sectors, as well as experience working with marginalized and diverse populations, is an asset
• Strong organizational and administrative skills
• Proven ability to coordinate multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Able to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment
• Skilled in managing a high volume of intake calls and service inquiries using a solution-focused approach
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, excel, and general computer literacy
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Committed to ongoing professional development and continuous learning