Outreach Program Administrator and Liaison - Downtown Kingston B.I.A.

Downtown Kingston BIA is a not-for-profit organization governed by an elected Board of Management. The operations are led by an Executive Director who is responsible for a small team dedicated to the continued growth and prosperity of downtown Kingston.

Together we are cultivating a community of shared joy, pride, optimism and prosperity in downtown Kingston.

We are a team of motivated professionals who are passionate about the success of downtown Kingston. We appreciate the unique nature of our community and take pride in knowing that our efforts contribute to its success and growth. Our office environment is busy, collaborative, and friendly. We enjoy creating memorable experiences and bringing joy to our members, visitors, and residents.

In towns and cities across Canada, Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) play a vital role in fostering economic vitality and strengthening community bonds. BIAs are not-for-profit organizations, funded by the member business and property owners whose properties exist within designated districts. BIAs collaborate with members, partners, and stakeholders to create inviting environments, encourage meaningful connections, and stimulate economic growth. Click for more information.

Goals of the Welcoming Streets Program in downtown Kingston: 

1. Dedicated focus on the downtown core of Kingston to specifically address concerns related to individuals experiencing homelessness, as identified by business owners and the public. 
2. Cultivate authentic, proactive, and positive relationships with business owners, residents, visitors, and social service partners within the downtown core. 
3. Build trust and establish a positive rapport with individuals experiencing homelessness and vulnerable circumstances by developing genuine connections and building relationships outside of crisis situations. 
4. Enhance the capabilities of local businesses to effectively and appropriately handle concerns, while fostering empathy and understanding. 
5. Respond to and address situations in the downtown core that may not necessarily require police intervention. 
6. Collaborate closely with existing services supporting individuals with complex needs through:  
7. Interact with involved individuals, prioritizing safety and appropriateness.  
8. Adopt a person-centered and community-based approach.  
9. Facilitate connections with relevant social service agencies.  
10. Connection with appropriate response teams, such as AMHS, Kingston Police Service, EMS, or others, as needed. 

Job Description 

Reporting to the Welcoming Streets Program Manager and working in a private sector environment, the Outreach Program Administrator and Liaison is a valuable member of our team, driving engagement and promoting the vibrancy of downtown Kingston through creative video content and event support. 

• Position Type: Mid-level role in a private sector environment.
• Part-time Contract: 1 year, 20-30 hrs/week, Saturday availability a prerequisite

Responsibilities

1. Administer the Downtown Kingston Welcoming Streets Program, ensuring efficient and effective operations.
2. Serve as the primary point of contact for business owners seeking assistance in education, training, and real-time support when managing situations involving individuals experiencing mental health or addiction-related crises.
3. Proactively offer guidance, resources and support to business and property owners, ensuring that they and their employees are well-equipped to handle situations involving vulnerable community members effectively and compassionately, including:
4. Outreach to business owners and employees:
• Raising awareness about the Welcoming Streets program and how it works
• Scheduling workshops and training
5. Maintain accurate monthly reports outlining the activity, interactions, support provided, and outreach activities for the program.
6. Organize program supplies, including but not limited to; harm reduction supplies, food and clothing supplies/donations.
7. Establish genuine, positive relationships with community members experiencing challenges related to homelessness, mental health, and/or addiction.
8. Coordinate with social service partners, bylaw officers, and Kingston Police Services to provide appropriate support and resources for individuals in need.
9. Be on call for outreach response calls when on shift.

This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals facing various challenges, while contributing to the overall well-being of the downtown Kingston community.

The work environment for the Outreach Program Administrator and Liaison:

Office Time: Approximately 70% of the time will be spent in an office setting and walking in the downtown core. The office space is well-lit and ventilated, and it is shared with other BIA staff. The office can be accessed via stairs and an elevator, ensuring accessibility for all staff members. *The space will be subject to change, as the program grows.

Business and property owners + employee Interaction: The Outreach Liaison and Program Administrator will interact with business and property owners as well as their employees in various settings within the downtown core. This will involve proactive connection with the business community to provide information about the Welcoming Street program, general support, guidance with situations involving interacting with community members who struggle with mental health and/or addictions.

Outreach Work: Approximately 30% of the time will be dedicated to outreach work, which involves traveling on foot throughout the downtown core. This includes parks, waterside areas, streets, businesses, libraries, and community agencies. The role requires extensive walking and mobility.

Dress Code: It is expected that the Outreach Liaison and Program Administrator dresses appropriately for the weather and for tasks related to the job.

Things to Consider in this Role:  

1. High level of physical activity: The position involves a significant amount of physical activity, including on-foot travel throughout the downtown core, which may include parks, streets, businesses, libraries, and community agencies. Being physically fit and able to walk extensively is essential for carrying out outreach work.  
2. High level of face-to-face communication: The role requires frequent face-to-face communication with various individuals, including vulnerable individuals, business owners, stakeholders, and service providers. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and effective communication are vital to establish connections, build trust, and provide support.  
3. Healthy personal and professional boundaries and self-care: Recognizing the importance of setting healthy boundaries between personal and professional life is crucial. It's necessary to prioritize self-care, manage workload, and engage in activities that promote personal well-being and resilience to prevent burnout.  
4. Positive outlook and navigating negative conversations: Maintaining a positive outlook is essential when engaging with individuals facing challenging circumstances. Being able to navigate potentially negative conversations and situations with empathy, compassion, and a non-judgmental attitude is vital for building trust and providing effective support.  
5. Conflict management and de-escalation skills: The role may involve encountering potentially conflictual or escalated situations. Having the ability to manage conflict, de-escalate tense situations, and ensure personal and public safety is important. Training in conflict resolution techniques and de-escalation strategies would be considered an asset.  

Schedule:

The Outreach Liaison and Program Administrators schedule is 24-30 hours a week, with scheduling to be further discussed (mandatory weekend coverage is required). May be asked to be available for occasional meetings outside of the above-mentioned shifts, dependent on availability.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience working in mental health, addictions and/or homelessness outreach
• Education in a relevant field of study
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Experience with data collection tools and databases
• Understanding of data privacy and security principles
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Previous experience in program administration or coordination.
• Proven experience in establishing trust and building positive connections with marginalized individuals.
• Previous experience in supporting those facing challenges related to addiction, homelessness, and mental health.
• Knowledge of local resources and services available for individuals facing homelessness, mental health, and addiction challenges.
• Previous experience working with confidential data bases considered an asset.

Personal information and any supporting material provided by applicants will be handled in compliance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA). We appreciate all individuals who apply for the position, but please note that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

The Downtown Kingston BIA is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering inclusivity and implementing barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. We will accommodate the needs of applicants in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) at every stage of the recruitment and selection process. If you require any accommodation to ensure your accessibility needs are met during this process, please let us know.

In this role, we prioritize your personal safety and well-being, never expecting you to put yourself directly in harm's way. We encourage open communication with managers to ensure a safe and supportive work environment that promotes mental wellness and self-care. We recognize the importance of maintaining a healthy life-work harmony and expect our team members to prioritize their well-being by accessing available resources and support as needed.