Cultural and Housing Support Worker at Hogan's Alley Society – Vancouver, British Columbia

About Hogan's Alley Society

Hogan’s Alley Society (HAS) is a Vancouver-based non-profit organization whose mission is to advance the social, political, economic, and cultural well-being of people of African descent (Black People) through the delivery of inclusive housing, built spaces, and culturally informed programming. For years, the Society has been a leading advocate for people of African Descent in Metro Vancouver who have endured the legacies of so-called urban renewal, residential displacement, and the attempted erasure from Vancouver’s historical narrative.

Community Care is an essential aspect of our mission, deeply rooted in the wisdom of our Indigenous African ancestors and our pursuit of collective liberation. The idea of "it takes a village" resonates strongly with us, and Community Care embodies our commitment to honoring our heritage as we strive to create a strong, resilient, and tightly-knit community where everyone feels a profound sense of belonging. Our efforts encompass connecting people of all ages, from our young to elders, through a variety of means, including food, ceremonies, mentorship, as well as commemorative and celebratory activities.

About the role

As part of the Community Care team and reporting to the Director of Community Care, the Cultural & Housing Support Worker will play a crucial role in advancing HAS's commitment to create space for Black community development in Vancouver. The primary responsibility of this position is to deliver the Housing Support Program. Additionally, as a member of the Community Care team, they will support and collaborate with other team members to implement the Community Care Strategy for Social Justice Initiatives. These initiatives encompass various programs, including but not limited to the Black/African Diaspora and Indigenous Cultural Support Program and Land Stewardship & Mentorship Program.

The Housing Support Program offers intervention and advocacy for the Metro Vancouver Black/African diaspora with emergency housing needs to set up housing and avert eviction for folks that experience homelessness and housing uncertainty.

The Black/African Diaspora and Indigenous Cultural Support Program draws on Ancestral Indigenous African diasporic practices and knowledge to support community connection through Afrocentric traditions.

What you'll do

Primary Responsibilities (Housing Programs)

• Provide community-based, off-site housing support to Black/African descent individuals across Metro Vancouver, including outreach, accompaniment, and advocacy.
• Support the development of individualized housing, service, and safety plans in collaboration with clients, centering client-led decision-making and informed choice.
• Navigate housing systems and community resources, coordinating referrals, intakes, and service connections, and accompanying clients to appointments as needed.
• Deliver housing support services including housing setup, time-limited rental assistance, emergency housing funding, eviction prevention, and shelter diversion.
• Identify systemic barriers, service gaps, and emerging needs, contributing to program improvement, housing strategy, and advocacy efforts.
• Maintain clear professional boundaries, exercise sound judgment, and work within defined program scope in complex and sensitive situations.

Primary Responsibilities (Cultural Programs)

• Support the coordination and delivery of culturally grounded activities and initiatives for Black/African diasporic and Indigenous community members.
• Collaborate with team members, Elders, knowledge-keepers, and community partners to support culturally relevant engagement and programming.
• Contribute to building and maintaining relationships with community organizations, leaders, and partners.
• Assist in identifying and organizing opportunities for community connection, gatherings, and activities that support the body, mind, spirit, and land.
• Support the development of program materials, including posters, newsletters, and outreach resources.

Qualifications

• You are legally entitled to work in Canada.
• You bring demonstrated, hands-on experience supporting individuals or communities impacted by housing insecurity, homelessness, displacement, disability, systemic racism, or related social inequities.
• Formal education (such as a diploma or certificate in a relevant field) is valued; however, equivalent or greater weight will be given to substantial, relevant lived and professional experience directly applicable to this role.
• You have a valid BC driver’s license and are able to travel throughout Metro Vancouver as required. This may include access to a personal vehicle or eligibility to participate in a car-share program (e.g., Evo or similar).
• You have a driving record that allows you to obtain and maintain access to car-share services, where required. All work-related transportation costs will be covered by the organization.
• You are willing to provide, as a condition of employment, a current and clear criminal record check, including a vulnerable sector search.
• Mental Health First Aid, Naloxone, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, LGBT2QIA+, Decolonization, and Trauma Informed training are an asset

Personal Attributes

• Strong documentation, coordination, and follow-through skills, including the ability to track multiple client files, referrals, and time-limited supports in alignment with program expectations.
• Are flexible, collaborative, empathetic, have very strong advocacy, and relationship building skills
• Are a problem-solver and skilled at conflict resolution .
• You are able to maintain clear private and professional boundaries with clients and colleagues, and exercise sound judgment when navigating complex or sensitive situations.
• You are able to navigate housing systems, service pathways, and community resources, and recognize systemic barriers that impact clients’ access to housing and supports.
• Have familiarity with BC Housing registry, supportive housing, SROs and other low income housing options
• Have a well-developed understanding of anti-Black racism, a commitment to anti-oppression work, and intersectionality. Knowledge of the legacies of so-called urban renewal, residential displacement, and the attempted erasure of the people of African Descent in Metro Vancouver from Vancouver’s historical narrative.
• Have familiarity with or lived experience with living with invisible/visible disabilities
• Have familiarity with the Residential Tenancy Act.
• A clear understanding of Black history in Canada, and experience working with immigrants and refugees, especially those from Africa.
• Lived experience and/or connections to and within diverse Black communities. HAS strives to hire staff who reflect the people we serve.