Health and Wellness Worker in Toronto, Ontario at Christie Ossington Neighborhood Centre

Christie Ossington Neighbourhood Centre (CONC) is a multi-service community organization supporting individuals and families through shelter, housing, food security, and community-based programs across Toronto.

Our work is rooted in dignity, respect, and a commitment to meeting people where they are. We strive to create a workplace where staff feel supported, valued, and able to contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Position Overview:

The Health and Wellness Worker plays a key role in supporting clients who face multiple barriers to optimal physical, mental, and emotional health — including experiences of homelessness, trauma, substance use, and systemic marginalization. In this role, you will work directly with clients to assess their health and wellness needs, support the development of individualized goals and plans, and coordinate access to internal programs and external services.

You will collaborate with team members across CONC’s programs — including Life Management, Employment, and Sustainable Housing — and contribute to the development and delivery of creative, inclusive, and community-driven health strategies. This role requires strong knowledge of Toronto’s health and community resources and a deep commitment to client-centered, anti-oppressive practice.

This is a unionized, full-time position reporting to the Supervisor of Shelter Programs. Collaboration with the Managers of Drop-In, Men’s Shelter, and Transitional Housing Programs is also essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assess client health barriers and strengths; support clients in defining self-determined health and wellness goals
• Develop health and wellness plans in areas such as nutrition, stress management, recreation, coping strategies, medication reminders, and formal counseling
• Identify and facilitate access to clinical care, detox/rehab, mental health supports, and other external services
• Coordinate internal group programming and partnerships with community agencies to deliver effective, relevant health and wellness initiatives
• Collaborate with the Life Management, Employment, and Sustainable Housing teams to ensure client-centered, integrated service delivery
• Assist in identifying service gaps and recommending program development opportunities
• Build partnerships with health-focused organizations to enhance client supports
• Evaluate the effectiveness and outcomes of programming
• Participate in staff meetings, case discussions, and agency initiatives
• Support cross-program collaboration and contribute to a positive, inclusive workplace culture
• Support the training and orientation of students, volunteers, and new staff as assigned
• Document client interactions, outcomes, and activities thoroughly
• Support front-line shelter operations as needed, including:
• Floor coverage and front desk duties
• Escorting case managers or residents to/from appointments or rooms
• Collection of used paraphernalia
• Deliver services with sensitivity to the racial, cultural, linguistic, and gender-specific needs of diverse communities
• Observe agency policies, including confidentiality and the Staff Code of Conduct
• Attend professional development and training as directed
• Other duties as assigned by the Manager of Shelter Programs or Director of Shelters & Housing

Qualifications and Experiences:

• Passion for supporting vulnerable individuals in improving their health and wellness
• Minimum 3 years of experience delivering health or substance use-related support services
• Minimum 2 years working in a shelter, hostel, or similar setting
• College diploma or university degree in a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Strong knowledge of local health, substance use, and community support services
• Experience building collaborative, professional relationships with clients, colleagues, and external partners
• Skilled in time management, communication (oral and written), documentation, and use of MS Office and social media tools
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects through all stages
• Experience administering the Ontario Common Assessment of Need (OCAN) is an asset
• Fluency in a second language is an asset
• Self-motivated, proactive, and results-oriented
• Presentation of a current criminal record check.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to outline the general responsibilities and qualifications for this role. It may be reviewed and updated as needed to reflect organizational priorities.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Equity and Accommodation

CONC is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion in our workplace. We encourage applications from individuals who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, including those from equity-deserving groups.

Accommodation is available upon request throughout the recruitment process.