First Contact Volunteer
Region : Ontario
Volunteer opportunity conditions :
- Location : In-person.
- Regions/or cities : Toronto
- Minimum age : 18 years or older.
- Minimum volunteer hours /period : Monday from 8:45am - 12:45pm and 1-year commitment (minimum).
- Specific requirements : The majority of the work is performed in an office environment. Personnel will have their own desks. On occasion may be required to accompany client’s to shelters and have other role outside the office.
The Canadian Red Cross (CRC) – an inspirational not for profit organization, helps people and communities in Canada and around the world in times of need and supports them in strengthening their resilience. We are committed to having an accessible, diverse, inclusive, and barrier-free working environment.
As a First Contact Support Volunteer you will assist in providing timely access to information on a variety of issues affecting claimant’s survival and well-being.
As a volunteer in this role, you will :
- Assist clients as assigned by staff; duties may include but may not be limited to providing the following: translation, interpretation, orientation, intake.
- Provide referrals and information over the phone or in person.
- Contact community agencies for information.
- Revise and update program materials.
- General administration support (fax, photocopy, etc.)
- May be asked at short notice to help with special events.
You bring these essential talents :
- Customer service skills and active listening skills.
- Empathetic, calm, patient, and professional approach to client’s needs.
- Organizational skills, record keeping, computer skills (Microsoft, Excel, Power Point)
- Good communication skills. Must be able to deliver services in English. Fluency in a second language is a definite asset especially in French, Spanish, Arabic, or Farsi.
- Strong computer skills and accurate data inputting skills.
- Strong team player with fellow Red Cross personnel and external agencies.
- Take initiative and can work with minimal supervision.
- Experience with an online work environment.
- Courteous and professional telephone manners.
- Previous knowledge of newcomer and refugee communities is a strength.
- General knowledge and understanding of issues related to persons from different socio-economic backgrounds.
- Understanding of social justice and equity issues.
- Experience in the social services field is an asset.
A satisfactory Enhanced Police Information Check or equivalent is mandatory for all personnel volunteering or working with the CRC.