Shelter Support Worker Micro-Credential Program

A free, in-depth online program to jumpstart your career in the homeless or family violence shelter sector

CBC – Up To Speed with Faith Fundal interview.

This program is presented in partnership with family violence and homeless shelters, and Red River College Polytechnic. Funded by the Province of Manitoba.

Completion of the full program and work placement may lead to employment at a shelter. Link to apply at the bottom.

Overview of program: Check out our poster for a brief overview of the program.

What is it like to work at a shelter? What sort of skills do I need?

1. Shelter workers must be patient, empathetic, and nonjudgmental as they work with vulnerable community members who have experienced trauma.
2. The ability to respect clients’ cultural backgrounds, stories, and diversity is critical.
3. Shelters serve all genders without prejudice. Workers at any shelter should expect to serve clients of any gender, including gender-diverse people, women, and men.
4. Shelter workers must set professional boundaries with clients and their families while maintaining strict privacy and confidentiality in accordance with the shelter’s policies.
5. Shelters typically provide 24/7 service, meaning shelter workers may have to perform shift/overnight work for 8-12 hour stretches.
6. Shelter work involves manual labor; workers may have to cook, clean, and perform other important housekeeping tasks.

If you’re interested in participating, please begin the application process at https://forms.gle/1CE4ZuwjKzZXiVXX6 and submit by September 30, 2023.

Contact with any questions.