Community services are the main point of contact for the needy and less fortunate people in the society. A community support worker cooperates with different social groups to provide the ultimate care to individuals with mental and physical disabilities. The assistance may vary from recreational, vocational, social, to physical skill development or a combination of such.

The career of a community support worker combines the skills of social work, caregiving, and teaching. The main goal is to help clients develop a set of skills and cope with mechanisms to attain a sense of independence. If you need a satisfying profession, this would be a great industry to delve into. Here is what you need to know if you are aspiring to provide community support services.

It is a Growth Career

Community service introduces you to several growth jobs. So you can expect to meet different clients and experience personal development. You will be dealing with vulnerable people who have gone through domestic violence, discrimination, or poverty. As such, there’s a lot to learn about counseling, food relief, emergency housing, aged care, child care, and health clinics. With different roles coming your way, you’ll have plenty of room to expand your skillset. Some of your future titles may include:

• Team manager
• Community service manager
• Crisis intervention worker
• Halfway house supervisor
• Child protection officer
• Case management supervisor
• Program coordinator
• Women’s center program supervisor
• Welfare worker
• Advocate

Skills Needed

You need to possess fundamental qualities to enjoy your job and make a rewarding profession out of it. Supporting people who are facing addiction, health disorders, abuse, and other issues requires a strong personality and a set of skills such as:

a) Empathy

To be a community worker requires you to understand the situation that another person is going through. The ability to empathize with others makes it easier to identify the client’s challenges and overcome distress.

b) Communication Skills

You need impeccable skills in written and verbal correspondence to pass information to the clients and your agency. Excellent listening skills are a huge plus in any community support role. Effective communication allows you to advocate while remaining clear and concise in times of crisis.

c) Patience

Caregiving and emotional support are highly complex services. It takes time and professionalism to understand the needs of some clients. Some may not communicate their needs, so you have to develop patience and a strong mindset.

The responsibilities may sometimes be challenging, but the service is hugely fulfilling. If you are compassionate, patient, optimistic, and firmly uphold social justice, then a career in community service is perfect for you.