Job Title

Reporting Relationship: Reports to Shelter Manager Location: Women''s Shelter (Cedar Branches), Duncan, BC Start Date: Immediate Hourly Wage: $25.78/hour About CWAVS For over 40 years, the Cowichan Women Against Violence Society (CWAVS) has been a trusted leader in advancing safety, equity, and social justice. As a growing organization with multiple locations and innovative programs, we provide life-changing support to women, children, and families in the Cowichan Valley. Why Join Us? Make a difference by supporting some of the most marginalized women in our community through trauma-informed and non-judgmental care. Be part of a deeply committed team working together in a fast-paced, collaborative, and compassionate environment. Gain meaningful experience supporting women with complex needs in a low-barrier shelter setting. About the Role Cedar Branches is a 24/7 low-barrier shelter offering 22 beds to homeless and unhoused women in the Cowichan Valley, including limited overnight drop-in spaces. The shelter also offers outreach services such as access to a Nurse Practitioner, door-based supports, and referrals to community resources. Women accessing Cedar Branches may be substance-affected or navigating complex physical, emotional, and mental health challenges. We aim to ''do no further harm,'' creating a space where safety, boundaries, and dignity guide our work. Support Workers are essential members of the shelter team, helping to maintain a welcoming environment, meet basic needs (meals, laundry, hygiene, etc.), and ensure clear communication across shifts. This role involves regular interaction with participants, conflict de-escalation, and safety monitoring. Key Responsibilities Build trusting, non-judgmental relationships with shelter participants Provide compassionate and respectful support while maintaining appropriate boundaries Complete hourly participant wellness checks and maintain regular communication logs Assist with meal prep, laundry, and cleaning across all areas of the three-story shelter Respond to crises using de-escalation techniques and trauma-informed approaches Collaborate with the shelter team to uphold shelter policies and maintain safety for all Support women in accessing services, resources, and referrals as needed Maintain accurate and timely documentation using basic computer systems and email What You Bring A calm and grounded demeanor, even in high-pressure or emotionally intense situations Genuine empathy and commitment to harm-reduction, housing-first, and trauma-informed practices Ability to navigate challenging conversations using non-violent communication techniques Flexibility and physical stamina for a fast-paced, physically active environment Willingness to work as part of a rotating team in a 24/7 facility Interest or experience in supporting people with substance use or mental health-related challenges Essential Qualifications Emergency First Aid with CPR-C (or willingness to obtain) Current Criminal Record Check (Vulnerable Sector) Naloxone training (or willingness to obtain) Familiarity with trauma-informed practice, harm reduction, and de-escalation Basic computer and communication skills (logging, forms, email) Preferred Assets Previous experience working in a shelter or frontline support environment Understanding of the impacts of colonization, gender-based violence, and housing insecurity Lived or community-based experience supporting women affected by violence, trauma, or systemic marginalization Hiring Preference & Commitment to Reconciliation CWAVS holds a human rights special program exemption under the BC Human Rights Code that allows us to prioritize hiring Indigenous (First Nations, Mtis, and Inuit) candidates for this position. Indigenous applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. CWAVS is deeply committed to decolonization and reconciliation and seeks team members who share our values of equity, inclusion, and Indigenous leadership in advancing safety and social justice. All individuals who would contribute to the further diversification of our organization are encouraged to apply. How to Apply To apply, please send your cover letter and resume to: Human Resources Subject Line: [Your Name] Women''s Shelter Support Worker We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Job Type: Casual Pay: $28.03 per hour Benefits: Flexible schedule Work Location: In person