About Us
At the Calgary Drop-In and Rehab Centre (the DI), we are dedicated to serving our community with kindness. Our mission – to work with community to end homelessness, one person at a time – goes beyond providing immediate support; we strive to create an environment where individuals can regain their confidence and rebuild their lives.
We are more than an emergency shelter.
Our dedicated team of staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that everyone who walks through our doors feels welcomed, respected, and valued. What sets us apart is our holistic approach to support. We offer not only safe and comfortable accommodation and meals but also access to essential resources such as health and recovery services, and housing supports.
All of our programs, including emergency shelter, are low-barrier, trauma-informed, housing-focused, and recovery-oriented, aimed at supporting Calgary’s most vulnerable citizens. And our doors are always open.
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Department:
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Communications
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Job Category:
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Salary
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Reports To:
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Director, Strategic Communications
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Position Type:
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Term
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Key Mentor:
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Communications and Development Specialist
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Schedule:
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Weekdays
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Location:
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Inglewood
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Position Summary
Reporting to the Director, Strategic Communications, and mentored by the Communication’s and Development Specialist, the Communication’s Specialist (Student) will support the communications team in executing various communication initiatives and projects. This position is designed to provide hands-on experience and practical training in the field of communications. The student will work closely with the communications team to gain exposure to different aspects of communication, including writing, social media, event planning, design, and photography.
Time Commitment
This is an 8-week term position comprised of a 35-hour week; however there will be requirements to be available and flexible from time to time outside normal business hours as the need arises. Schedule may be altered at the discretion of management.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist in creating and editing content for various communication channels, including press releases, newsletters, website, social media, and marketing materials.
- Conduct research and gather information to support communication initiatives.
- Monitor and engage with the organization's social media platforms.
- Assist in planning and executing events, including logistics, promotion, and on-site support.
- Support media relations efforts, including drafting media pitches and press materials.
- Assist in tracking and analyzing communication metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies.
- Collaborate with the communications team to ensure consistent messaging and brand identity.
- Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in communication.
- Complete assigned projects and tasks as directed by the communications team.
Required Competencies and Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in a communications, public relations, journalism, or related program.
- Satisfactory Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check – dated within the last 6 months. Copy required.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency in using various digital and social media platforms.
- Basic knowledge of media relations.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
- Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software.
- Knowledge of graphic design and video editing software is a plus.
- Previous experience or coursework in communications is preferred but not required
- A genuine commitment to the mission, vision, values, and work of the agency.
Working Conditions
The individuals we serve are experiencing homelessness or precarious housing and may also be facing substance use disorders and/or mental or physical health challenges. Many have a history of significant trauma.These experiences can influence their interactions with both staff and one another. By recognizing these behaviors as responses to past experiences, we are able to engage with our guests in a manner that is empathetic and respectful.
This role may involve high-stress situations that require resilience, compassion, and composure. At the DI we are deeply committed to the well-being of our staff, implementing policies and providing resources that support both physical and psychological safety, as well as mental health. We address the immediate challenges faced by our team to provide the highest level of support as well as the cumulative impacts of this vital work. By prioritizing staff well-being, we empower our team to provide the highest level of support to those in need, fostering a culture of care and understanding throughout our organization.
While the work is demanding and requires a strong commitment, those who are drawn to this field often find it to be one of the most impactful and rewarding careers they can pursue. It’s about making a difference – one person at a time.
Although the DI is a smoke-free work environment, there may be occasional exposure to secondhand smoke from designated smoking areas nearby.
Why the DI?
The DI aims to be an "Employer of Choice" and affords each employee an opportunity to help make a real difference in our community, and more importantly in the lives of those who rely on our services. We take great care in hiring the right people who fit, and who share our outlook on the value of people. We believe in living our values in every work we speak and in every action we take, and we want people who share this commitment.
Our Culture
Our values form the cornerstone of our culture:
RESPECT: Our actions honour the rights, differences, and dignity of others
COMMUNITY: Through collaborative partnerships, we work together as a team, building inclusive communities
KINDNESS: We accept each person’s uniqueness with compassion and empathy
WELLNESS: We promote, provide and support holistic wellbeing
ACCOUNTABILITY: We operate with transparency and integrity in both our relationships and our commitments.
What we Offer
Staff at the DI enjoy competitive compensation packages, including employer-paid benefits depending on role and employment type.
Some of the employer-paid group benefits include:
- Vacation days
- Sick days
- Wellness days
- Extended Health & Dental coverage
- Employer Matching RRSP Program
- Homewood EFAP
- Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D)
Employees will be enrolled in Long-Term Disability and Critical Illness insurance, paid for by the employee. This is mandatory and may not be opted out of.
Benefits are based on employment type and usually available on the 1st of the month following your start date. If you are successful in obtaining employment with the DI, People & Culture will discuss your eligibility for benefits with you.
Vulnerable Sector Check
A satisfactory vulnerable sector clearance is require prior to resumption at the DI.
Alberta Living Wage Employer
The DI is an Alberta Living Wage Employer. This means we are committed to paying our employees a living wage that allows them to meet their basic needs and participate in their communities. A living wage is different from minimum wage in that minimum wage is mandatory and the same throughout the province while a living wage reflects what people need to cover the actual costs of living in their communities. Payment of a living wage is a voluntary commitment from employers to go beyond the minimum. Visit https://livingwagealberta.ca/living-wage/ to learn more about the living wage.
The DI is an equal employment opportunity employer. We are committed to and support equal employment opportunity for all individuals without regard to race, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status.
If you are an applicant in need of accommodations or special assistance throughout the interview process, please submit a request by email to People@thedi.ca. 
