Settlement Counsellor ID #1547

YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka•Barrie, ON

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

This role will provide assistance to newcomers to Canada in Barrie as well as delivering services in other communities within Simcoe County. Responsible for the implementation of specific plans to achieve key program goals and objectives.

Requirements

Completion of post-secondary education from a recognized community college or university, preferably in the area of social services or settlement; or equivalent settlement training/work experience.
Valid Class G Driver’s License and access to a vehicle for travel throughout Simcoe County on a regular basis.
Previous experience working with newcomers and refugees.
Demonstrated knowledge of settlement services and community information resources, as well as barriers facing newcomers/ immigrants including physical, emotional, social and financial issues.
Good facilitation and presentation skills.
Excellent communication skills.
Good computer skills; proficient with Microsoft Office and able to effectively use the Internet to research information.
Willingness to participate in mandated training to be completed before or shortly after commencement of work including: AODA Training, Health & Safety Awareness Training, Bill 168 (Violence & Harassment in the Workplace) Training, PCI Compliance, Child Safeguarding Orientation.
Willingness to be able to work flexible hours based on client needs.

Nice To Haves

Ability to communicate in Urdu is considered an asset.
Knowledge of the Ministry of Education and the Education Act is considered an asset.
Knowledge, experience and ability to provide case management services to high needs newcomer students and families.
Understanding of different cultures and cultural practices.
Fluency in more than one language will be considered an asset.

Responsibilities

Embrace YMCA's mission and core values wholeheartedly.
Serve members, facility users, and program participants with dedication.
Be involved in screening and client support by: Assessing program eligibility, Guiding students and families with solution-focused counseling, Making relevant referrals to community services, Addressing service gaps for immigrant students and their families, Assisting with school integration and community settlement, Providing ongoing support and follow-ups, Participating in case management meetings, Offering crisis support when needed.
Implement resource & information services support through: Responding to inquiries by phone and in person, Meeting with students, families, and school faculty as needed, Sharing updated resource materials and community info, Creating and deliver newcomer-related workshops, Researching, organizing and sharing settlement-related info, Conducting workshops for school faculty, Providing information individually and in workshops, Delivering activities in-person and virtually.
Provide Community Resources and Foster Networking by: Promoting immigrant programming to various organizations and the community, Sharing community service info with YMCA staff, Fostering welcoming environments for immigrants, Building relationships with other immigrant services.
Support the program initiatives through: Developing necessary forms and materials, Compiling and reporting monthly statistics, Maintaining client tracking and file documentation to program and YMCA standards, Keeping individual files up to standard, Performing other assigned duties as needed.