Settlement Counsellor ID #1604

YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka•Bradford West Gwillimbury, ON

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Settlement Counselor will provide individualized settlement support to residents of the Reception Centre, assisting clients as they navigate housing, healthcare, income supports, education, employment, legal referrals, and community integration. Working collaboratively with community partners, the successful candidate will help clients develop settlement plans that promote stability, independence, and successful integration into the community. This is a 6-month contract position.

Requirements

Relevant University Degree or College Diploma or equivalent settlement training/work experience
Previous experience working with newcomers, providing settlement counselling
Demonstrated knowledge of settlement services and community information resources, barriers facing newcomers/ immigrants including physical, emotional, social and financial issues
Good facilitation and presentation skills
Proficient with Microsoft Office; able to effectively use the Internet to research information
Researches, collects and organizes up-to-date settlement-related information using knowledge and skills related to barriers facing Assylum Seekers
Completes and maintains client files as per funder and YMCA quality standards
Facilitates and organizes group information sessions for clients and individual 1:1 support as needed
Develops relationships to ensure all Immigrants are welcomed
Be able to develop a immigration and settlement plan
Strong knowledge on accessing supports and resources on immigration options
Understands the network of community and settlement supports available
Strong Understanding of the Immigration Process
Understanding of different cultures and cultural practices
Clear Police Reference Check and Vulnerable Sector Screening
A reliable vehicle is required for outreach in the community
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 another language is an asset

Responsibilities

Conduct intake and needs assessments with newly arrived clients.
Develop individualized settlement plans and monitor client progress.
Provide information and referrals related to healthcare and mental health services, employment and education, language training, legal and immigration services, and income supports and community resources.
Support clients with completing applications and required documentation.
Maintain accurate and timely client records using the organization's case management system.
Collaborate with County of Simcoe staff and community service providers to coordinate client supports.
Advocate on behalf of clients when appropriate.
Facilitate workshops, orientation sessions, and community connections.
Participate in case conferences, team meetings, and ongoing professional development.
Ensure services are delivered in accordance with YMCA policies, funder requirements, confidentiality standards, and trauma-informed, client-centred practices.
Researches, collects and organizes up-to-date settlement-related information using knowledge and skills related to barriers facing Assylum Seekers.
Completes and maintains client files as per funder and YMCA quality standards.
Facilitates and organizes group information sessions for clients and individual 1:1 support as needed.
Develops relationships to ensure all Immigrants are welcomed.
Be able to develop a immigration and settlement plan.