Youth Outreach Worker, R.I.T.E.S. Youth Justice Program
Central Toronto Youth Services
Toronto
Salary: CAD 63,000 - 76,000
Position: Youth Outreach Worker, R.I.T.E.S. Youth Justice Program
Contract Full Time (35 hrs/week; 1 FTE), OPSEU Bargaining unit; Contract ending March 31st, 2027
Reporting to: Manager, Client Services, R.I.T.E.S. Program
Location: 65 Wellesley St. E., Suite 300, Toronto
WHO WE ARE
Central Toronto Youth Services is an award-winning non-profit community-based accredited Children's Mental Health organization serving Toronto's most vulnerable youth ages 13-17, young adults ages 18-24, and their families. Since 1973, CTYS has provided equitable, evidence-informed mental health services to youth and young adults, their families, and the community.
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR:
We seek a Youth Outreach Worker to join our R.I.T.E.S. Youth Justice team. The Youth Outreach Worker will engage Black, African, Afro-Caribbean, and/or Afro-Latinx youth in Toronto who are at risk of or involved in the youth justice system, including those referred via Probation Services.
Responsibilities:
- Provide intake services, conduct assessments, and develop individualized service and discharge plans.
- Provide support and interventions for Black youth in community, detention centers, and occasionally in the office (evening/weekend work may be required).
- Contribute to program development, planning, and outreach efforts.
- Enhance youth's emotional regulation, reduce self-harm, and decrease high-risk behaviours.
- Assess risk and implement safety plans, including crisis interventions to stabilize youth.
- Advocate for and connect youth and families with necessary resources.
- Promote prevention and build collaborative community networks and partnerships.
- Facilitate transitions to culturally relevant mental health services at the end of service.
- Participate in program evaluation and continuous quality improvement.
- Maintain accurate client files, case notes, and reports in compliance with CTYS accreditation standards.
- Other duties as assigned.
WHAT WILL YOU BRING TO THE TEAM:
- BSW or relevant degree/discipline or equivalent combination of education, experience, and training.
- 3 to 5 years' progressive experience working with young people involved in the youth justice system.
- Identify as a member of the Black/African diasporic community.
Skills, Attributes and Abilities:
- Expertise in Rites of Passage model and Afrocentric program development.
- Strong understanding of the impact of Anti-Black racism on youth and families.
- Knowledge of Toronto's diverse Black communities and services.
- Familiarity with youth justice system, social service resources, YCJA, and CFSA.
- Commitment to anti-oppressive and anti-racist practices.
- Proficient in assessment, counselling, case management, and coordination with youth facing mental health challenges.
- Experience providing support for the unique needs of Black youth.
- Skilled in community-based work, crisis prevention, intervention techniques, and safety assessments.
- Understanding of adolescent development, family systems, trauma-informed care, and conflict resolution.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficient with computers and software applications.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and management.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Valid Ontario Driver's License and access to a car are required.
- Ability to work flexible hours in various settings.
- Proficiency in a second language is an asset.
- Familiarity with youth engagement strategies is an asset.
WHAT WE OFFER:
- Vacation: 15 days first year, 20 days after one year of service.
- Personal Leave: 15 days.
- Religious, Spiritual, Cultural or Observances Leave: 2 days.
- Float Days: 1 day.
- Educational Leave: 7 days.
- Extended Health: Employer pays for health and dental coverage after 3 months.
- RRSP: OPTrust Pension contributions.
- Compensation: Competitive salary \& support during approved medical leave.
COMPENSATION: $63,108.92 -- $75,355.35 per annum
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Please submit your cover letter and chronological resume via email to: *******@ctys.org
We thank all interested parties, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
EQUITY AND INCLUSION:
CTYS is dedicated to cultivating an inclusive workplace and building teams that reflect the diversity of our clients and communities.
ACCOMMODATION:
CTYS is committed to creating an accessible organization and will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities.
