Supportive Housing Program Manager

Supportive Housing Program Manager

Reports To: Executive Director

St Jude Community Homes (SJCH) is a private non-profit organization providing both support services and permanent, safe, affordable housing for adults recovering from mental illness – a place to call home and a community of belonging. St Jude Community Homes operates three buildings and dispersed units supporting over 118 households in downtown Toronto.

The organization operates on strong principles of community development and recovery to facilitate a supportive community where individuals can live, learn and grow.

Job Summary:

An energetic, organized, demonstrated leader, the Program Manager is part of our management team. The Program Manager provides overall leadership and strategic plans to programs and services to support tenants with mental health challenges. The role is ideal for someone who is dedicated and compassionate, and can thrive in a busy, deadline oriented and diverse environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Supportive Housing Program:

• Provide operational oversight of the programs to ensure quality service delivery that foster self-sufficient living and recovery in align with SJCH’s Strategic Directions
• Develop and implement program policies and procedures to enhance compliance and resident outcomes.
• Implement project plans to operationalize housing initiatives and manage program admission processes efficiently.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date resident records, files, and reports to ensure confidentiality and security.
• Manage program budgets, ensuring financial resources are allocated effectively and efficiently.
• Ensure the program meets its goals and objectives, adjusting strategies as necessary to improve outcomes.
• Evaluate program performance, preparing reports for the Executive Director and other stakeholders.

Resident Support Services:

• Supervise Resident Supports and Programs: Oversee the provision of individual-centered care plans, ensuring that staff are effectively supporting clients in achieving housing stability and self-sufficiency.
• Resource Coordination: Facilitate access to community resources, including healthcare, employment, and educational opportunities, by coordinating efforts with teams and external partners.
• Assessments: Conduct regular reviews of resident needs and progress, providing guidance and support to teams in developing and implementing individualized service plans.
• Crisis Management: Lead crisis intervention efforts, providing support and direction to staff in emergency situations to ensure resident safety and wellbeing.
• Advocacy: Ensure residents receive fair and consistent services and benefits, working to resolve any systemic barriers they may face.

Team Leadership:

• Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Provide training and professional development opportunities for staff. o Conduct regular team meetings to communicate about emerging and ongoing department business. o Ensure staff receive thorough job onboarding and training to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. o Evaluate staff performance, providing constructive feedback and implementing improvement plans as needed. o Promote a culture of continuous learning and professional growth within the team.

Community Engagement:

• Relationship Building: Establish and maintain strong relationships with landlords, service providers, and community organizations to support housing initiatives and client needs.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborate with community stakeholders to develop and implement strategies that enhance service delivery and client outcomes.
• Advocacy: Represent St. Jude Community Homes at community meetings and events, advocating for the needs and rights of clients.
• Partnership Development: Identify and pursue opportunities for partnerships and collaborations that can benefit the organization and its clients.
• Public Relations: Serve as the primary point of contact for community inquiries and concerns, ensuring positive and effective communication.
• Community Outreach: Lead outreach efforts to educate the community about the services and mission of St. Jude Community Homes, fostering support and engagement.

Qualifications:

• Education and Experience:
  • University degree in Social Services, Counselling or equivalent or a combination of education, training and experience
  • Minimum 3 years of experience managing a team o Minimum 3 years of experience in supportive housing or working with individuals living with mental illness and/or homelessness
  • Trauma Informed and Crisis Intervention Skills
• Competencies:
  • Strong leadership and team management skills. o Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office o Preferred: Client management software such as TREAT. o Ability to work with diverse populations and understanding cultural differences.
  • Community Development: Skills in fostering community partnerships and engaging with stakeholders to deliver impactful programs and supports.
• Attributes:
  • Commitment to the mission and values of St. Jude Community Homes. o Empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by adults living with mental health issues.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a diverse team.
  • Willing to work flexible hours if needed, including some evenings, weekends and on-calls.
• Specific Qualifications: (While not required during the hiring process, the successful candidate must obtain the following shortly after commencement of employment)
  • Knowledge of Housing Legislation: Understanding of local, provincial housing regulations and policies including Residential Tenancies Act
  • Budget Management: Proven ability to manage budgets and financial resources.
  • Quality Improvement: Designing, implementing and evaluating new programs that promote quality improvement and strategic priorities
  • Health and Safety: Knowledge of health and safety regulations and procedures, including fire safety and inspections. o Police Check for Vulnerable Sector.

SJCH is committed to employment equity and encourages candidates from varied backgrounds, abilities, and experiences.