Open To Work
Joan Commanda
Toronto,ON
Summary
Passionate and committed social service worker dedicated to enhancing individual and community well-being. With lived experience and over a decade of professional and volunteer work, I strive to promote social justice, advance human rights, and empower vulnerable populations. Skilled in connecting individuals with essential resources, advocating for systemic change, and supporting holistic healing through culturally grounded and trauma-informed approaches.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Case Manager
Native Child & Family Services
Toronto, ON
06.2025 - 01.2026
- Coordinated case management services for diverse client populations, ensuring culturally appropriate support.
- Developed and implemented individualized service plans in collaboration with families and community resources.
- Monitored client progress, adjusting plans as necessary to meet changing needs and improve outcomes.
- Provided crisis intervention support, facilitating access to mental health and substance abuse services.
Indigenous Student Advocate
University of Toronto
Toronto, ON
01.2015 - 01.2023
- Advocated for Indigenous student rights, disability accommodations, and funding access
- Participated in housing advocacy efforts in partnership with Downtown Legal Services
Support Worker / Case Manager
Aboriginal Healing Program
Toronto, ON
01.2016 - 01.2019
- Conducted intake assessments, case planning, and referrals to culturally relevant rehab, housing, harm reduction, and wellness services
- Supported clients navigating poverty, family violence, and legal issues with a holistic approach
- Led aftercare sessions focused on life skills, coping strategies, and empowerment
- Fostered
Education
Master of Science - Indigenous Studies, Minor in Equity Studies Women & Gender Studies
University of Toronto
Toronto, ON06-2027
Skills
- 4 years of frontline experience in Indigenous, culturally based addictions programming
- 10 years of volunteer experience in the non-profit sector
- Deep understanding of systemic barriers through lived experience
- Strong working knowledge of health care, legal, housing, and social service systems
- Skilled in client referrals for education and training programs
- Excellent rapport-building with clients, colleagues, and community partners
- Case management including case notes and individualized care planning
- One-on-one and family counselling experience
- Crisis intervention and problem-solving under pressure
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and standard documentation practices
- Strong verbal and written communication
- Problem-solving
- Case management
- Time management
- Case documentation
- Active listening
Certification
- CPR / First Aid - Expires August 2028
- Food Handler Certification - Expires June 2026
- Toronto Shelter Standards Training - June 2024
- Understanding and Managing Aggressive Behaviour (UMAB) – January 2024
- Introduction to Documentation Skills – January 2024
Timeline
Case Manager
Native Child & Family Services
06.2025 - 01.2026
Support Worker / Case Manager
Aboriginal Healing Program
01.2016 - 01.2019
Indigenous Student Advocate
University of Toronto
01.2015 - 01.2023
Master of Science - Indigenous Studies, Minor in Equity Studies Women & Gender Studies
University of Toronto