Why the Y?

The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is committed to the development of healthy communities. Our locations,

programs and services are designed to help our members and participants grow in spirit, mind and body and are

open to people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and abilities.

At the YMCA

you will feel connected to community, when your work positively influences the lives of others in so many ways.

• you will meet new people, while working at one of the most respected human services organizations in

the world

• you will expand your knowledge base, where you can flourish in values-based environment.

• you will have career development opportunities where you build a better future for yourself and others.

• you will experience a rewarding job by helping support the building of healthy communities.

The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is a multi service, non-profit values-based charity that serves Windsor-Essex,
Sarnia-Lambton, Chatham-Kent, London, Middlesex-Elgin, Huron-Perth, and Oxford counties. Our services include:
Childcare Services, school age programs, camp programs, health and fitness branches, community programs and
newcomer services across the region. Our commitment includes a special focus on the region’s children and
youth. From the kids in our camps and those participating in soccer and swimming lessons, to youth who are new to
our communities from around the world, the Y is committed to helping our next generation to grow and thrive, as
healthy individuals and passionate future leaders.

Y not join the thousands of members, employees and volunteers and share our vision of a healthy community?

As we continue to grow, we have a need for the following position:

Position/Term: Settlement Advisor – Pashto & Dari – Contract Position to March 31/2024 (IRCC)

Location: London Newcomer Services Locations

London: YMCA Wortley Learning Centre 165 Elmwood Ave. East, London ON
YMCA North London Learning Centre 207-735 Wonderland Rd. North, London ON
Othe sites as assigned.

Start Date: ASAP

Qualifications & Experience:

• 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 Pashto & Dari

• 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

• The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario has a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy. It has been suspended

Compensation/Benefits:

• A YMCA personal membership at our health and fitness branches

• A discount on our Childcare 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
  

Schedule:

• Full-Time 40 Hours a week. Occasional evening & weekend shifts may be required to accommodate clients

who are unable to schedule appointments during our regular hours or to support special events/outreach

activities.

Responsibilities:

• YMCA of Southwestern Ontario policy and procedures

• Act as a YMCA ambassador, demonstrating YMCA core values in your daily work.

• Determines eligibility for services and conducts initial needs and assets assessments to identify needs, assets

• Provides information and referrals to newcomers in order to meet immediate everyday needs including

housing, banking, shopping, education, health services, etc.

• Assists clients in setting realistic goals, priorities and the development of action items through the creation

of a solution focused settlement plan

• Refers newcomers to appropriate internal and external programs and resources

• Implements 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.

• Advocates on clients’ behalf, when appropriate, with agencies, organizations and institutions

• Assists with exploration, research and the development of workshops and programs that address identified

client needs

• Delivers group orientation and information sessions for newcomers and the public

• Provides 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.

• Handles administrative and clerical duties, including back-up reception, as required

To Apply:

1. In your cover letter, specifically state the position you are applying for and location. Please include

specific information detailing how you meet the qualifications we require for this position.

2. Submit your cover letter, resume, and applicable attachments): to Firas Sefian

firas.sefian@swo.ymca.ca by May 19st , 2023.

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

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.

Want to know more about us, visit us at: https://www.ymcaswo.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/YMCAofSWO/