English Conversation Circle Volunteer Facilitator

The YMCA of Northeastern Ontario has been serving our local communities for over 180 years and we are committed to supporting our local families, children, adults, youth and seniors in our various programs and services today.

At the YMCA, our values and purpose drive everything that we do. As a charity, we’ve championed values of empathy, health, trustworthy, inclusiveness, respect and responsibility. Helping people develop a healthy spirit, mind and body and inspiring a sense of social responsibility is the cornerstone of our legacy of caring.

To learn more about our programs and services offered please visit our website.

Shine On. Make a Difference. Build Belonging.

Are you passionate about helping newcomers feel welcome, supported, and connected in their new community? Do you enjoy leading activities, building meaningful relationships, and creating positive experiences for others?

Join the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario as an English Conversation Circle Facilitator at the Immigrant Services department and help newcomers practice English in a casual, supportive group setting.

What You’ll Do

As an Immigrant Services Program Volunteer, you will help facilitate the English Conversation Circle/English Basics that support English learning, social connection, and well-being for newcomers. You’ll play a key role in creating a welcoming environment where participants feel encouraged, valued, and included.

You will:

• Lead weekly English Conversation Circle/English Basics sessions in a supportive, encouraging, and culturally aware manner.
• Facilitate conversations on everyday topics to help newcomers build vocabulary and gain confidence.
• Plan simple discussion themes, activities, or prompts suited to varying English levels.
• Foster a respectful and inclusive group environment where all participants feel heard.
• Track attendance and communicate any updates or concerns to the Volunteer Coordinator.
• Commit to a minimum of 6 months to ensure consistency for participants.
• Participate in volunteer orientation and ongoing training
• Support other tasks as assigned

What You Bring

No formal education or experience is required, just a willingness to learn, grow, and make a difference!

You’re a great fit if you:

• Feel confident facilitating in-person or virtual sessions
• Comfortable in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in English
• Create welcoming, inclusive spaces
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity
• Enjoy leading education, well-being, or social programs
• Speak multiple languages (asset, not required)

A satisfactory Police Record Check with Vulnerable Sector is required

Why Volunteer With Us?

Volunteering in Immigrant Services means you will:

• Make a meaningful impact in the lives of newcomers
• Help build community belonging in Greater Sudbury
• Share your passion for education, wellness, or social connection
• Grow as a leader and communicator
• Gain valuable experience and networking opportunities
• Benefit from training, development, and ongoing support
• Enjoy a complimentary YMCA fitness centre membership after you’ve volunteered regularly (at least once a week) for 6 months, our way of appreciating your ongoing commitment

At the YMCA, we believe everyone has the ability to shine, including you.

Ready to Shine On with Us?

If you would like to volunteer with us, please apply, by website only, with a cover letter and resume to the attention of the Personnel Committee.

Please ensure that your cover letter and resume both specify the job title of the position that you are applying for.

All applicants are thanked for their interest in this position. However, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. If contacted and you require a disability related accommodation in order to participate in the recruitment process, you must advise the Human Resources Department.

Please note that successful candidates will be required to submit a current and satisfactory Police Record with Vulnerable Sector Check for review prior to starting employment. Police records are reviewed on an individual basis, and any offences are considered in relation to the nature of the position and its responsibilities, particularly in working with children and vulnerable populations. A positive record does not automatically disqualify a candidate from employment.

Please note that candidates invited for an interview will be required to submit three professional references.

YMCA of Northeastern Ontario is an equal opportunity employer that is dedicated to maintaining a fair and equitable work environment. All of our employees and job applicants will be promoted or employed solely on the basis of their abilities and qualifications.

Educational credentials completed outside of Canada require an Educational Evaluation along with your credentials. If you do not have an evaluation document, please visit https://www.wes.org/ca/. or https://www.icascanada.ca. Applications submitted without an evaluation document may not be considered.