Amber Bowie
Calgary,AB
Summary
Overnight emergency shelter professional with two years of experience at Mustard Seed and a diploma in addictions and mental health. Skilled in managing high-volume shelter operations during late-night hours, specializing in crisis de-escalation, intake, and guest safety. Brings a unique perspective with 24 years of lived experience in addiction, homelessness, and recovery, facilitating authentic rapport with guests in crisis.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
7
7
Certifications
Work History
Overnight Shelter Worker
Mustard Seed
Red Deer, AB
11.2018 - 08.2021
- Oversaw intake processing for guests entering shelter facilities.
- Conducted bed checks to ensure safety and accountability of all residents.
- Performed bag checks to prevent prohibited items in sleeping areas.
- Managed laundry sanitization and cleaning preparations for daily operations.
- Prepared breakfast each morning to support guest needs.
- Handled de-escalation during mental health crises or conflicts among guests.
- Responded to medical emergencies, including seizures, overdoses, and injuries.
- Documented incidents and nightly notes in log books for staff continuity.
- Provided one-on-one crisis support for guests experiencing overnight mental health distress
Addiction Support Worker
Caroline Treatment Centre
Caroline , AB
06.2019 - 02.2021
- Delivered individual and group counseling to individuals facing addiction challenges.
- Provided crisis intervention services for clients requiring immediate support.
- Facilitated referrals to community resources, including housing and employment opportunities.
- Assisted in developing aftercare plans for discharged clients to promote successful reintegration.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of work areas to ensure a safe environment.
- Supported daily patient care activities while ensuring a clean and organized setting.
- Monitored patient behaviors, promptly reporting concerns to the healthcare team for action.
Education
Diploma - Addictions And Community Service Support Worker
Academy of Learning Career College
Red Deer, AB11-2019
High School Diploma -
Lindsay Thurber High School
Red Deer, AB06-1994
Some College (No Degree) - Addiction Counseling
University of Lethbridge
Lethbridge, ABSkills
- Crisis intervention
- First aid and CPR
- De-escalation techniques
- Client advocacy
- Mental health support
Certification
Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI)
Lived Experience:
- 24 years of personal experience with Addictions, homelessness, Domestic Violence, and navigating the justice system.
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
- Night Outreach Worker - Turning Point (Red Deer)
Engaged in street-level outreach during evening hours to provide supplies and harm reduction support.
Served as a trusted point of contact for individuals from disconnected from mainstream service providers.
Timeline
Addiction Support Worker
Caroline Treatment Centre
06.2019 - 02.2021
Overnight Shelter Worker
Mustard Seed
11.2018 - 08.2021
Diploma - Addictions And Community Service Support Worker
Academy of Learning Career College
High School Diploma -
Lindsay Thurber High School
Some College (No Degree) - Addiction Counseling
University of Lethbridge