The Impact the Peer Support Worker with the CSS and Sanctuary Team can make:

Community Support Services

The Community Support Services (CSS) program at Covenant House Vancouver provides low-barrier, trauma-informed support to youth aged 16–24 who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. CSS offers a welcoming, inclusive space where youth can access essential services such as meals, showers, clothing, harm reduction supplies, and emotional support—without the need for appointments. The program is designed to meet youth where they are at, whether they are actively using substances, seeking recovery, or navigating mental health challenges. Staff build trusting relationships through consistent, compassionate engagement, offering individualized support and connections. CSS also provides overdose prevention resources and ensures that all youth, regardless of their goals, have access to a safe, respectful, and affirming environment. By centering youth voice and choice, the CSS program empowers young people to take steps toward stability, wellness, and self-defined success.

Sanctuary Program

Sanctuary is a low-barrier shelter designed for youth whose substance use, co-occurring mental health and life circumstances have resulted in significant disconnection from most or all other services. This program exists for young people for whom more structured or goal setting programs options are no longer accessible or effective.

The goal of the program is to provide immediate safety and stabilization for youth who would otherwise be unsheltered. The intervention is rooted in a harm reduction approach with a focus on relationship-based care.

How you will contribute:

Youth Engagement & Peer Support:

• Build rapport and establish trusting relationships with at-risk youth aged 16–24
• Engage youth at a peer level by sharing appropriate life-specific experience insights and practical coping strategies
• Respond to youth inquiries and provide informal support, guidance, and encouragement
• Assist youth in navigating internal and external services and community resources
• Connect youth to Youth Worker/ Social Worker when applications/ referrals are necessary

Advocacy & Practical Support

• Accompany and support youth to attend appointments (medical, housing, legal, social services, etc.)
• Help youth to prepare for appointments. (What to ask, when to ask questions, presentation and so on)
• Greet and welcome youth accessing CHV services
• Provide practical supports such as food, clothing, hygiene supplies, laundry assistance
• Advocate for youth needs (Shelter, safety, etc.) while maintaining professional boundaries

Safety, Operations & Program Support

• Meet operational needs as required to ensure the safety and security of the program
• Follow fire safety, emergency, and crisis response procedures
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and safety of program areas for both youth and staff

Documentation & Communication

• Participate in meetings when necessary
• Follow up with team members around critical incidents/information related to youth you are supporting
• Accurately document contacts – ETO efforts
• Communicate effectively with staff about any significant safety or behavioral concerns
• Co-facilitate team meetings, youth meetings, or program circles as appropriate, contributing a peer-informed perspective

Professional Development & Team Participation

• Attend all required training, supervision, and team meetings as directed
• Participate in ongoing learning related to peer support, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and youth engagement
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary team

Compensation:

The successful candidate can expect a starting hourly rate of between $21.14 and $26.42 depending on factors such as internal equity, experience, competencies, and education. Once hired, the hourly rates are reviewed annually following the annual performance review and successful employees have the opportunity for their hourly rate to increase, over time, up to the maximum of the pay band, currently $31.70.

Who are we looking for?

Education and Experience:

• Peer support training from a BC recognize organization.
• Lived experience relevant to Mental health, substance use, homelessness, housing instability, systems involvement, or related challenges
• Strong understanding of peer support principles and boundaries
• Experience working with vulnerable or at-risk youth is an asset
• Ability to engage youth with empathy, non-judgment, and respect
• Adequate communication, problem-solving, and de-escalation skills

Competencies:

• Trauma-informed and strength-based approach
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries while working from lived experience