Reconsider the job - Human Relations Agent/Community Outreach Worker AVATIL Employee Review

The job was rewarding because of the clients and the staff were nice (not management). There was no experience needed and no social work degree required just a bachelors in whatever.

Oh boy so many cons. Managed by a crazy lady for over 25 years. She micro manages her staff, doesn't listen to staffs requests, is rude and unreasonable. She actually has the receptionist right down what time staff come in at. If you're late a few times she'll fire you. Working there is like going back in time, everything is outdated, shared email address and 2 computers for 6 staff so that she can look through every email. She doesn't trust staff to have internet at their desk yet each desk has a computer. Turnover rate is unreal yet the board of directors does nothing about it because she tells them "young people don't like to stay at the same job for very long". Staff are overworked (no breaks), underpaid (16-19$), workload is insane (15-20 clients per counsellor, must write case notes, must do bed bug checks, run groups in the evenings, do home visits, budgeting/going to the bank, doctors apts, grocery shopping, run programs, organizing Christmas parties/outings/graduations/walkathons/fundraising, family meetings with clients, and staff meetings twice a week). Staff dont even get to enjoy their Christmas party because we have to serve food/drinks and clean while clients and parents enjoy. Also the workplace is in a basement and always has bed bug issues, must work 2 nights/week and every 2nd Saturday. PLEASE dont work here its not worth the TRAUMA it will cause you.

The clients are the best!

Exceptionally toxic environment, extremely high turnover (5 staff out of 9 left in the past 4 months), management micro-manages everything and is dishonest, hires people on "contract" for positions that are unionized positions with the "possiblity" of a permanent position but there is no written contract, then does not honor the contract. Staff not valued at all, staff not allowed to have internet at their desks despite the need for it and numerous requests, staff must share 2 computers in the waiting room and a common email address. Must work 2 nights per week and every 2nd Saturday. Heavy workload, no time for lunch break, no paid overtime. Too many cons to name them all...If you do apply, get EVERYTHING management says/promises in writing!