Community Navigator at Lakehead Social Planning Council

About Lakehead Social Planning Council | 211 Northern Region:

The Lakehead Social Planning Council (LSPC) works to build a stronger, more inclusive Thunder Bay community. Through collaboration, research, and innovative services, we address poverty, inequity, and social exclusion. Alongside providing direct supports that help individuals and families meet basic needs, we bring people together, analyze community trends, and inform policy to create lasting community impact.

LSPC is the official provider of 211 services in Northern Ontario (www.211north.ca), offering comprehensive navigation and referral support across the region. 211 helps people access the complex network of human, health, and government services by phone, email, or chat, supported by a comprehensive and up-to-date community resource database.

Description:

The Community Navigator plays a vital role in connecting individuals and families to the programs and services they need to thrive. This position involves conducting thorough needs assessments, guiding clients through applications and documentation, and providing referrals to appropriate community resources. The Community Navigator helps clients navigate complex social, financial, and health systems, offering one-on-one support, advocacy, and follow-up to ensure they can access the services that meet their unique needs. By fostering strong relationships with clients and community partners, the Community Navigator contributes to building a more connected, resilient, and informed community.

Duties:

• Perform client intakes and collect accurate personal and demographic information.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments to understand individual and household needs.
• Assess client needs and determine appropriate internal programs or supports.
• Assist clients with completing applications, forms, and required documentation.
• Verify client eligibility and ensure all application requirements are met.
• Clearly explain program requirements, processes, documentation expectations, and next steps.
• Respond to incoming 211 inquiries across all channels and provide timely assistance.
• Search community resources and provide accurate, appropriate referrals when needs extend beyond LSPC services.
• Facilitate connections to community programs and ensure clients understand how to access available supports.
• Administer crisis intervention skills when necessary to promote safety and de-escalation.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and professional case notes and records in accordance with policy.
• Participate in outreach, awareness initiatives, and community presentations to promote services.
• Support fundraising activities that strengthen LSPC programs and community impact.

Qualifications:

• Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong knowledge of computer systems, online databases, and Windows-based software.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to relate effectively with people of diverse ages, ethnicities, cultures, and social backgrounds.
• Knowledge of human services and community support systems in Ontario.
• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods as required for service delivery.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle are considered assets.

Hours of Work:

• 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Occasional evenings/weekends may be required to attend community events or outreach activities.

Compensation

• Hourly Rate: Starting at $25.00 per hour

Workplace Setting:

• This position is based in an office setting and involves regular collaboration with both in-person and remote team members.
• The role requires the use of digital communication tools to coordinate tasks, participate in meetings, and ensure seamless workflow across all team locations.

Additional Information:

• Start as soon as possible
• Temporary Full-time Contract (1 year)
• Possible full-time opportunities

Application Process:

For consideration for this position, please submit by email a resume and cover letter to

Marie Klassen, Executive Director, [email protected].

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. As an equal opportunity employer, the LSPC encourages applications from all people including Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of visible minority groups.