Settlement Outreach Worker

Be the Spark that ignites the potential in people! At our YMCA, we believe in the power of people. Every day, our dedicated employees and volunteers bring energy, positivity, and inclusivity to everything they do. They are the spark that ignites potential in others—helping individuals grow, thrive, and truly belong.

When people feel connected and supported, communities become stronger, more resilient, and full of life. That’s the impact of people-powered change. Together, we create welcoming spaces where everyone is valued, differences are celebrated, and possibilities are endless. Be the spark. Shine bright. Help others shine too.

About the Role:

The Settlement Outreach Worker supports the YMCA’s Newcomer Program in Fort McMurray by providing trauma-informed, complex case management to newcomers facing multiple barriers to settlement. The Settlement Worker conducts home visits and community-based outreach, provides advocacy and referrals, and works with community partners to coordinate supports based on each client’s needs.

This position provides client-centered, trauma-informed services to immigrants and refugees during their settlement and integration into the local community. The role encompasses outreach, engagement, and providing essential information and support to newcomers. Through an integrated services approach, the Settlement Outreach Worker (SOW) provides one-on-one detailed needs assessment and referrals, one-on-one information and orientation, group information and orientation, community connections, client outreach, service bridging, resource development, and delivery assistance to eligible clients. The SOW carries out their duties in a professional manner and in accordance with all YMCA policies and procedures, standards of practice, health and safety standards, child protection standards, and contractual, legal, and regulatory requirements. Work hours are primarily Monday to Friday, with evening and weekend availability required as needed to meet client and program needs. Access to a reliable vehicle is required for travel throughout the community.

Responsibilities:

• Actively engage with immigrant and refugee communities to raise awareness about available settlement services.
• Conduct outreach activities at local events, community centers, schools, and places of worship to connect with newcomers.
• Build trust and rapport with immigrants and refugees to encourage participation in settlement programs and services.
• Assess client needs, including strengths and barriers, in their first language where possible, to assist in identifying immediate and long-term needs.
• Develop and monitor individualized settlement plans based on identified needs, available services, and community supports.
• Offer guidance on accessing government services, including applying for permanent residency, health benefits, and other public services.
• Provide individualized support to clients, tracking their progress and assisting them in meeting their settlement goals.
• Provide translation and interpretation support to clients.
• Follow up with clients to ensure they are receiving the support they need and address any barriers to accessing services.
• Plan and deliver group/individual orientation and information sessions on topics related to settlement.
• Work within defined program budgets.
• Maintain accurate participant files in accordance with funder and YMCA guidelines.

Qualifications:

• Post secondary degree/diploma in Social Work, Human Services, or related field.
• Intermediate (Standard) First Aid, CPR-C.
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and Suicide Intervention Certification preferred.
• Able to obtain a Police Information Check with Vulnerable sector.
• Minimum 2 years of experience working with immigrant, refugee, or marginalized populations in a settlement or social service setting.
• Strong working knowledge of issues/practices related to immigration and refugee issues, social determents of health, harm reduction, individual assessment, and case management.
• Strong working knowledge in culturally sensitive and trauma-informed practice, and strength-based approach.
• Fluency in multiple languages is highly desirable, especially languages spoken by local immigrant or refugee populations.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends as needed for community events or meetings.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, databases and other technology.
• Annual registration in a professional organization as required by law.
• Valid driver’s license and has a reliable vehicle.

Why work for the YMCA?

The YMCA of Northern Alberta is a charity that ignites the potential in people, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities. We are committed to helping our employees and volunteers reach their full potential and are recognized as a great place to work and volunteer. We offer meaningful opportunities to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities.

Joining the Y means contributing to over 100 years of providing opportunities for people to shine! Our Y serves tens of thousands of people each year through programs and services like health and fitness, licensed child care, day camps, mental health, employment and immigrant services, education and training, and services for youth, families and seniors.

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Inclusion has power, and we take strides to create a diverse, inclusive workplace where everyone can belong. Diverse teams unleash new ideas, and employees thrive in a culture that recognizes and appreciates the unique perspectives and backgrounds of others. Through our differences in how we think and act we can form innovative and effective teams and deliver organizational success.

If we can make the recruitment process more accessible for you, please let us know when we reach out about an opportunity so we can work with you to accommodate your needs.

In keeping with our commitment to safety and child protection, job offers are contingent on the successful completion of a Police Records Check. Prior to your first day and every three years thereafter, a Vulnerable Police Records Check is required.

The YMCA only considers applicants who are legally entitled to work in Canada. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, due to the volume of applications we receive, we can only contact candidates who are selected for an interview.