Join the YMCA Newcomer Services Team!

Be the Spark! Join our passionate team and be the spark that ignites the potential in others. YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is one of the largest not-for-profit providers of licensed child care in Canada, offers settlement services to newcomers to Canada, operates 2 overnight camps and 16 Health & Fitness branches across Southwestern Ontario, and we have been making a positive difference in the communities we serve for over 50 years!

Position: Settlement Advisor - Fluency in an additional language

Location: Sarnia YLCC (660 Oakdale Avenue, Sarnia, Ontario)

Start Date:ASAP

Schedule: 40 Hours week (monday to friday, some evening and weekend) - Contact Ending March 31/2025

As part of your total compensation:
• Receive a complimentary YMCA membership to our Health & Fitness facilities, and discounts on YMCA child care and camp programs
• Vacation entitlement in accordance with the employment standards regulations
• May be entitled to up to 12 paid personal days – applicable with position and contract length
• Benefits package - applicable with position and contract length
• Be part of a caring and supportive network of people to help each other succeed
• Complimentary access to wellness and counselling services

In this role, you will:

• Follow YMCA of Southwestern Ontario policy and procedures
• Act as a YMCA ambassador, demonstrating YMCA core values in your daily work

• Determine eligibility for services and conduct initial needs and assets assessments to identify needs, assets and obstacles to success
• Provide information and referrals to newcomers in order to meet immediate everyday needs including housing, banking, shopping, education, health services, etc.
• Assist clients in setting realistic goals, priorities and the development of action items through the creation of a solution focused settlement plan
• Refer newcomers to appropriate internal and external programs and resources
• Implement accepted settlement counseling practices and procedures including accurate documentation, continuous assessment, file maintenance and client follow-up
• Maintain and expand client base through outreach, which includes community visits, developing outreach materials and promoting community networks
• Represent the agency on appropriate community networks focused on immigration issues and refugee status and work in conjunction with other agencies and community groups to co-ordinate/facilitate the delivery of services
• Advocate on clients’ behalf, when appropriate, with agencies, organizations and institutions
• Assist with exploration, research and the development of workshops and programs that address identified client needs
• Deliver group orientation and information sessions for newcomers and the public
• Provide leadership and direction in assigned projects that benefit our clients and the YMCA i.e. Strong Kids, Peace Week, etc.
• Supervise and support program volunteers as needed
• Handle administrative and clerical duties, including back-up reception, as required


Education and Skills Qualifications:

• Post Secondary Degree or Diploma in a related Human Services, Counselling, or Education discipline
• Knowledge of Immigration Law, and government funded/ community programs (i.e. Ontario Works, Legal Aid, CAS, etc.)
• Fluency in an additional language in at least one common newcomer language, i.e. Arabic, Mandarin, Ukranian, Karen, Burmese, Tigrinya, Amharic, (an asset)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiar with using a database
• Proficiency in using online digital platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom or Google Meet; required to provide virtual / remote service
• Demonstrated understanding and sensitivity towards the challenges facing newcomers
• Experience working with diverse populations
• Settlement Counseling and solution based counselling background
• Proven ability to understand and interpret complex documentation, applications, etc.
• Highly developed research skills
• Comfortable and effective communicating in group situations and delivering effective and engaging presentations
• Previous experience working within the Settlement Sector (an asset)

• Current and acceptable Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening is a condition of employment for all staff and volunteers
• Legally entitled to work in Canada

Why the Y?

The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is committed to the development of healthy communities and welcomes people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and abilities. We are committed to helping our employees reach their full potential and are recognized by Forbes as one of Canada’s Top Employers. We offer meaningful employment and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

NOTE: The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is committed to providing a barrier-free environment for all stakeholders including our members/participants, employees, job applicants, suppliers, and any visitors who may enter our premises, access our information, or use our services. As an organization, we respect and uphold the requirements set forth under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (2005), and its associated standards and regulations.