WINNIPEG HARVEST JOB POSTING REFERRALS ASSOCIATE GOAL: As part of the team at Winnipeg Harvest and working in support of and within the agency’s mission, goals, objectives, policies and procedures, the goal of this position is to ensure that people who require emergency food assistance in order to feed themselves and their families, are able to access a supply of surplus food. The Referrals Associate assists with the supervision of the client referral service including client interviews, needs assessments, agency contacts and the Referral Database & volunteers. This position provides an excellent opportunity for those with current or past experience accessing food banks and/or living on a low income, as well as those interested in pursuing careers in social work, community work and related fields. REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS: Reports directly to the Director of Client and Community Relations RESPONSIBILITIES: Working in cooperation and consultation with the Referrals Coordinator and the members of the Harvest Team, the Referrals Associate is responsible for: Maintaining and administering the Client Referral database system including data entry Maintaining: client records referral and resource manuals regular communication with Winnipeg Harvest agency office The resource area to ensure current and relevant information is available for clients in the waiting room. The “Fair Share” principle Ensuring that: clients who phone or walk in, are referred to appropriate outlets for food assistance and/or community resources Walk-in clients receive service based upon their needs. Assisting with the: Training and support of the Referral Team both paid and volunteers maintenance of the Client Referral Policy Providing: information around accessing government benefit programs up to date referral data for public education/statistical purposes QUALIFICATIONS: A strong belief in the dignity of all humans, social justice and a caring, non-judgmental and positive attitude Commitment to providing a high standard of service and a supportive atmosphere of respect and dignity Public drive/job postings/ Referrals Associate job posting – Oct 2014 Ability to work independently and take initiative, as well as work cooperatively within a team Excellent interpersonal skills and commitment to working with diverse groups (wide variation in income, experiences, age, culture, language and ability) Consistent ability to remain positive and calm when responding to challenging situations Experience in dealing with people who are in crisis Able to communicate effectively in English; ability to speak additional languages is an asset Accuracy and attention to detail Strong organizational and supervisory skills Excellent multi-tasking and time management skills Ability to utilize basic Microsoft Office and/or database applications Previous experience with food banks as a client or volunteer an asset Familiar with the city of Winnipeg and/or able to read maps Familiarity with hunger and poverty issues Knowledge of resources available relating to poverty and hunger issues. Willing to learn about advocacy and government systems (such as Employment and Income Assistance) HOURS OF WORK: 40 hours a week. Monday to Saturday PLEASE APPLY IN CONFIDENCE BY FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10TH, 2014 TO: Catherine Wirt 1085 Winnipeg Ave. Winnipeg, MB R3E 0S2 Fax: (204) 775-4180 Catherine.wirt@winnipegharvest.org We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those chosen for an interview will be contacted Public drive/job postings/ Referrals Associate job posting – Oct 2014