The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick responds to critical social needs in the community and works to provide solutions. By nurturing the potential of children, youth and adults, the YMCA connects people to life-building opportunities, as well as to each other and enhances their quality of life. The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick offers diverse programs at 19 locations in the city and surrounding municipalities. There are 450 employees and 500 volunteers. In 2016 the YMCA engaged more than 47,000 people in its health, newcomer, childcare and camp programs. Newcomer Connections is a key pillar within the YMCA family. Established in 1993, Y Newcomer Connections is a leading immigrant settlement centre focused on creating connections that will transform our community into a lasting, healthy home for immigrants from around the world, and from all walks of life.
The Settlement Counsellor is a cornerstone role that provides settlement assistance, practical guidance, and community referrals to newcomer clients at Newcomer Connections. The position provides information & orientation, needs assessments, and settlement planning to clients, particularly to those who encounter difficulty in adjusting to life in Canada and require assistance in resolving those difficulties. Evening and weekend work may be required on occasion. This position sits on the Newcomer Support Services Team and reports to the Settlement Supervisor.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Conduct needs assessments and develop customized settlement plans with clients who require assistance in adjusting to life in Canada;
- Manage ongoing client cases through scheduled meetings and follow-up appointments;
- Connect newcomers with relevant services and opportunities available to them in the community;
- Arrange appointments for newcomer clients as required and ensure clients are provided with the necessary information and resources to attend the appointment;
- Liaise with government agencies, health care practitioners, post-secondary education institutions, businesses, and non-profit organizations on behalf of clients as required;
- Report all client-related activity to the Data Entry Clerk on an ongoing basis;
- Maintain frequent, accurate data entry in CRM and other reporting tools;
- Assist the Settlement Trainer with the development and delivery of information and orientation sessions (I&O’s) to individuals and groups, as required;
- Assist with client intake as required;
- Actively collaborate with all service teams and staff to ensure that the needs of clients are being fully addressed and the goals of clients are being recognized and pursued;
- Attend public speaking engagements and community events as required in order to help raise awareness about the work of Newcomer Connections and the clientele that it serves;
- Foster relationships with community groups and organizations who are looking to build relationships with and support, newcomers to Saint John;
- Participate on relevant local, regional and national committees;
- Complete quarterly reports;
- Complete monthly expenses;
- Attend staff meetings;
- Perform duties as assigned by the Settlement Supervisor, Manager of Re/Settlement and/or the General Manager of Newcomer and Community Connections.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
- A Bachelor's Degree, Community College diploma or similar from an accredited institution
- Approachable and possessing a strong client-centric attitude
- Heightened sensitivity to the needs of our immigrant community
- Exceptional ability to communicate in English with clients whose first language is not English
- A minimum of 3 years work experience in a cross-cultural environment
- Exceptional oral and written communication skills
- Exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work flexible hours
- Must be fluent in the English language, knowledge of Ukrainian and/or Russian is an asset.
WHAT WE OFFER
- Professional Development: Ongoing training and skill-building opportunities.
- Perks: YMCA membership, flexible hours
- Supportive Environment: Work with a team that values growth and career progression.
- Paid Wellness Days and uniform allowance.
- Benefits: Eligibility to enroll in the YMCA’s benefits and pension plan.
- Competitive Compensation: $45,000–$50,000 annually.
(Starting salaries are based on skills and experience and typically fall between the minimum and mid-point of the range. The YMCA also offers opportunities for growth, regular reviews for progression, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in our community.)
INTERESTED IN JOINING US?
Interested candidates are invited to apply with us online at Careers | YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick. We ask all applicants to submit their cover letter and resume. The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick appreciates the interest of all applicants; however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT
We value the unique perspectives and contributions of each individual and are committed to building an inclusive, diverse workforce.
DUTY TO ACCOMMODATE
The YMCA is committed to creating inclusive and accessible environments for all. If you require an accommodation at any stage of the application or employment process, we encourage you to let us know so we can ensure equitable opportunities for all.
