Refugee Support Worker (FT Permanent)

Ymcaottawa; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The YMCA of the National Capital Region seeks a dedicated Refugee Support Worker to provide essential support to refugee claimants navigating the legal system. This role involves client intakes, emotional support, and community engagement, making a significant impact in the lives of individuals adjusting to life in Canada.

Benefits

Free YMCA gym membership

Health and Dental Insurance

Long-term Disability and Life Insurance

Access to Employee and Family Assistance Program

Up to 25 vacation days per year

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of experience working with refugees and vulnerable populations.
• Demonstrated sensitivity in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma.

Responsibilities

• Conduct client intakes and needs assessments.
• Provide referrals to legal and non-legal services.
• Assist clients in navigating the legal system.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Organizational Skills

Problem-Solving

Communication

Education

Post-secondary education in a related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Zoom

Teams

Google Meet

Job description

Description

Overview

The YMCA is a charity that has been helping Canadians improve their lives since the first Y opened in 1851. Y programs are offered at more than 1,700 locations across Canada and help more than 2.25 million people annually become healthier in spirit, mind, and body. The YMCA of the National Capital Region proudly serves people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, and works to address critical social needs in our community. We are a leader and valued partner in creating a vibrant and healthy community where everyone belongs and can reach their full potential.

This position requires a commitment to the Y mission and core values of responsibility, honesty, caring, respect, and inclusion, which form the foundation of all Y programs and services.

Working for the Y

Are you looking to use your skills and unique gifts to make a real difference in your community? The YMCA of the National Capital Region is a great workplace committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, where different backgrounds, experiences, and identities are appreciated and celebrated. The YMCA provides hundreds of employees with meaningful jobs and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities. We recognize the contributions of our staff through innovative practices, great benefits, and growth opportunities. Whether you are starting out in your career or a seasoned professional, you will find many exciting opportunities to achieve your personal and career goals.

Vacancy Status: This job posting is for an existing vacancy.

What do we offer?

At the Y, you will be part of a vibrant and diverse network of people whose shared vision is to change lives and make our communities home to the healthiest children, teens, adults, and families.

Our competitive wage and benefit package include:

• Free YMCA gym membership;
• Discounted Y program fees (including health & fitness programs, child care, and camps);
• Access to our YMCA Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) including free, immediate, confidential assistance and counselling for you and your family members for mental and physical health, and financial advice, among other 12 suites of services;
• Health and Dental Insurance;
• Long-term Disability and Life Insurance;
• Access to our Canadian YMCA Retirement Fund pension plan;
• Up to 25 vacation days per year including two float days, and one birthday vacation;
• Maternity leave benefits for up to 18 months.

*Some benefits may vary based on employment terms

What do you offer?

The YMCA of the National Capital Region, in partnership with the Community Legal Services of Ottawa (CLSO), is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Refugee Support Worker to join a 3-year access to justice project called the “Refugee Legal Orientation and Support Project”. This project aims to provide direct support to refugee claimants as they initially navigate the legal system and adjust to life in Canada. This role is ideal for someone with experience in frontline support, a strong understanding of the refugee claim process, and a commitment to equity and inclusion. This role will report to the Director of the Newcomer Information Centre and the Refugee Project Lawyer.

Key Responsibilities:

Client Support & Case Work

• Conduct client intakes and needs assessments
• Respond to inquiries about the program and available resources
• Provide referrals to legal and non-legal services
• Educate clients on the refugee claim process
• Offer emotional support and guidance throughout the initial refugee claim process
• Assist clients in navigating the legal system
• Coordinate and promote computer drop-ins (booking, scheduling, advertising)
• Provide on-site assistance and maintain program statistics
• Assist clients accessing the computer drop-in service
• Help clients overcome digital literacy barriers
• Troubleshoot common technical or formatting issues with the refugee portal
• Clarify and explain online processes and questions
• Flag client questions for the project lawyer when needed

Program Delivery

• Assist with planning, administration, outreach, evaluation, budgeting, and reporting
• Support delivery of educational and orientation sessions
• Track outcomes and maintain accurate records

Community Engagement & Public Education

• Build and maintain partnerships with community organizations
• Collaborate on the development of plain language legal education materials
• Co-facilitate public legal education sessions on the refugee claim process
• Work closely with the project lawyer, YMCA, and community partners to deliver coordinated support
• Participate in team meetings and joint initiatives

Note: This position may require travel within Ottawa. Access to reliable transportation is necessary.

What qualifications and abilities are we looking for?

At the YMCA of the National Capital Region, we strive to ensure our employees are a fit based on their strengths, interests, and future goals.

The successful candidate will have the following:

Qualifications:

Required:

• Minimum of 3 (three) years of experience working with refugees, immigrants, and vulnerable populations
• Demonstrated sensitivity helping/supporting/working with people who have experienced violence, abuse and/or trauma
• Demonstrated experience working with people who are upset or in crisis
• Commitment to providing affirming support for LGBTQIA+ clients
• Experience fostering trust and maintaining confidentiality
• Ability to establish and maintain professional boundaries
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail and critical thinking abilities
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
• Comfort with platforms like Zoom, Teams, and Google Meet
• Knowledge of immigrant settlement services and programs offered for newcomers
• Experience in needs assessment, information and referral services

Assets:

• Fluency in French (preferred) or another non-official language
• Post-secondary education in a related field
• Knowledge of Canadian immigration, refugee law and legal process
• Experience navigating the refugee portal, other IRCC or government portals
• Experience using Canva, Adobe products, or other design/communication tools

Additional Requirements:

• Applicants must already have a valid permit to work in Canada.
• A Police Record check, not more than 6 months old is required.Police Records checks are reviewed on an individual basis and the offense(s) - if any - is considered in the decision-making process in relation to the requirement of working with children, therefore not eliminating all candidates with a record from being offered a position.
• Annually, staff must complete the mandatory training for the protection of Children & Youth and submit the certificate of completion.

Core Competencies:

• Organizational Awareness and Understanding: Demonstrates and promotes a personal understanding of and appreciation for the vision, mission, and values of the YMCA of the National Capital Region.
• Planning and Organization: Ability to establish a clearly defined and effective course of action for self and others to accomplish short- and long-term work goals.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify an issue, gather and process relevant information, determine possible solutions, select appropriate responses, and implement and evaluate them.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Ability to speak, write, listen, and secure information effectively in a variety of settings. Ability to cooperate with others to achieve results. Ability to create and build relationships inside and outside the organization.
• Teamwork: Participates actively in a team for program quality and effectiveness.

About diversity and inclusiveness at the Y:

Inclusivenessis a part of our core values and we are committed to ensuring the diversity of the people and communities we serve and as well as our staff. We welcome candidates from racialized groups, invisible minorities, Indigenous People, women, persons with disabilities, persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to accessibility in employment and to ensuring equal access to employment opportunities for candidates, including persons with disabilities. In compliance with AODA, the YMCA will endeavour to provide accommodation to people with disabilities in the recruitment process upon request. If you are selected for an interview and require accommodation due to a disability during the recruitment process, please email [e-mail] upon scheduling your interview.

Statement on Use of Artificial Intelligence in Employment Decisions:

At the YMCA, we are committed to maintaining a fair and equitable hiring process. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants for any positions of employment. All employment decisions are made by our dedicated People and Culture team, ensuring that each candidate is evaluated on an individual basis with the utmost consideration for their unique qualifications and experiences.

How to apply?

All internal applicants must inform their supervisor of their intention to apply for the position.

Thank you for your interest in joining the YMCA of the National Capital Region. We appreciate all applications. Due to the volume of applicants, we are only able to contact those selected for further consideration in the hiring process.

The YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer.