Friends of Ruby is dedicated to the journey and well-being of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, aged 16-29 through mental health services, social services, and housing. Friends of Ruby offers Youth Mental Health services, a Youth Drop-In Centre, and a Transitional Home. The Centre provides access to barrier-free counselling and therapeutic groups, case management and a drop-in space with hot meals, community, and comprehensive programming. The Home provides transitional and emergency housing, mental health, and life-skills to support youth moving towards independent living.    

Friends of Ruby recognize that a diverse work force is critical to accomplishing our mission. Our goal is to attract and develop incredibly talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, allowing us to benefit from a wide variety of experiences and perspectives. We strongly encourage applicants from the 2SLGBTQIA+, Allies, BIPOC and ACB communities, and diverse backgrounds that meet the requirements of the role. 

Position Summary

The Peer Facilitator (Skills for Safer Living) will support the clinical team at Friends of Ruby’s Drop-In Centre in planning and facilitating the Skills for Safer Living Group. This group is specifically designed to support participants who have experienced at least one suicide attempt and are currently seeking support related to suicidality.  The group focuses on exploring coping strategies and fostering a supportive community among individuals with shared experiences.  

Responsibilities 

• Co-facilitate Skills for Safer Living with two members of the Friends of Ruby clinical team.  
• Share lived experience within the guidelines of peer support values.  
• Provide check-ins with group members within group meeting times. 
• Support group members in adhering to the group guidelines and comfort agreement.  
• Attend weekly supervision meetings.  
• Follow strict confidentiality guidelines. 
• Support co-facilitators with planning and post-group debrief meeting.  

This position requires a commitment of 3 hours/week for 12 weeks. During the first week, the three hours will be spent meeting with your co-facilitator to plan for the group and engaging in one hour of clinical supervision. During the last week, the three hours will be spent de-briefing from the group, exploring learnings from facilitating the group, and engaging in one hour of clinical supervision. Your hours during weeks 2-11 will be structured as follows:  

• 90 min for co-facilitating the group. 
• 1 hour for supervision with a member of the clinical team.  
• 30 minutes for de-brief after the group.  

Qualifications

• Previous experience engaging in a Skills for Safer Living program. 
• Group facilitation experience is an asset.  
• Member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. 
• A champion for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion & ARAO, including but not limited to:
  • Ability to navigate and communicate effectively in diverse environments.
  • Understanding of the broader social and cultural contexts that impact DEI efforts.
  • Understanding of equity issues and a commitment to promoting fairness and equality.
  • Excellent communication skills with an emphasis on inclusive language.
• Satisfactory clearance under the Vulnerable Sector Police Check Program.
• Legal eligibility to work in Canada.

Friends of Ruby is dedicated to fostering an inclusive selection process and work environment, guided by the Employment Equity Policies. If selected for an interview, please inform the People and Culture team of any accommodation you may require during the interview process.