Community Legal Advocate

OKANAGAN ADVOCACY & RESOURCE SOCIETY (OARS)

Community Legal Advocate

Location: Vernon, BC
Hours: 20 – 25 hours per week

Wages: $28/hour starting rate

Are you passionate about social justice and standing up for people who often face barriers accessing support? Do you want to use your empathy, curiosity, and problem-solving skills to help individuals while advocating for community-level change?

The Okanagan Advocacy & Resource Society (OARS) is seeking a Community Legal Advocate to support community members experiencing economic insecurity. You’ll provide education, guidance, and advocacy around tenancy, income assistance, disability benefits, and debt, while also helping to identify patterns and opportunities for systemic change in the community.

We are looking for someone who is compassionate, curious, persistent, and committed to social justice. Post-secondary education in the social sciences, humanities, and/or para/legal education is considered an asset, however, training will be provided for the right candidate.

What to Expect:

• Provide support, information, and advocacy to clients facing issues with income assistance, tenancy, disability benefits, debt, and related legal matters
• Work independently on-site and manage your own client schedule, while reporting to and being supervised by our Executive Director/Senior Advocate
• Build relationships with clients, government agencies, and community organizations to address individuals and systemic issues
• Document client interactions and follow up on strategies to help individuals access support
• Participate in systemic advocacy and public education initiatives to address gaps in community needs
• Maintain knowledge of relevant legislation, policies and procedures, and community resources
• Other duties as required to support the mission of OARS

What You Bring:

• Empathy and respect for vulnerable and diverse populations
• Commitment to social justice and systemic change
• Curiosity and willingness to learn continuously
• Strong research and critical thinking skills with comfort navigating detailed documents
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft clear letters and explain complex information in an accessible manner
• Strong problem-solving, negotiation, and presentation skills
• Patience and persistence when supporting clients through complex processes
• Interest in educating and empowering clients
• Ability to work independently while maintaining collaboration with supervisor
• Respect for diversity in all its forms and a commitment to inclusive practice

Why Work with Us:

• Flexible part-time schedule that supports work-life balance
• Starting wage of $28/hr with opportunities for growth as skills develop
• Comprehensive training and mentorship to help you thrive as an advocate
• The chance to make tangible impact on both individual lives and systemic issues
• Be part of a supportive, values-driven, mission-focused organization

How to Apply:

Send your resume and cover letters to: Makayla Lubinich, Social Media, Organizational & Community Development and Administrative Assistant

okanaganadvocacy@gmail.com

While all applications are welcomed and encouraged, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. Those selected will also be asked to prepare and submit a written response to an income security and/or tenancy client scenario they may encounter as a Community Legal Advocate. This exercise will help demonstrate preparedness in problem-solving, critical thinking, and research skills.