The opportunity:

The Settlement Counselor will provide individualized settlement support to residents of the Reception Centre, assisting clients as they navigate housing, healthcare, income supports, education, employment, legal referrals, and community integration. Working collaboratively with community partners, the successful candidate will help clients develop settlement plans that promote stability, independence, and successful integration into the community.

Please note that this is a 6 month contract position.

In this role, you will:

- Demonstrate strong support and commitment to the mission and core values of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka and the YMCA in Canada.
- Demonstrate strong support and commitment to serving the membership, facility users and all program participants of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka.
- Conduct intake and needs assessments with newly arrived clients.
- Develop individualized settlement plans and monitor client progress.
- Provide information and referrals related to:

1. Healthcare and mental health services

2. Employment and education

3. Language training

4. Legal and immigration services
5. Income supports and community resources

- Support clients with completing applications and required documentation.
- Maintain accurate and timely client records using the organization's case management system.
- Collaborate with County of Simcoe staff and community service providers to coordinate client supports.
- Advocate on behalf of clients when appropriate.
- Facilitate workshops, orientation sessions, and community connections.
- Participate in case conferences, team meetings, and ongoing professional development.

- Ensure services are delivered in accordance with YMCA policies, funder requirements, confidentiality standards, and trauma-informed, client-centred practices.

You bring:

- Relevant University Degree or College Diploma or equivalent settlement training/work experience
- Previous experience working with newcomers, providing settlement counselling

- Demonstrated knowledge of settlement services and community information resources, barriers facing newcomers/ immigrants including physical, emotional, social and financial issues
- Good facilitation and presentation skills




- Proficient with Microsoft Office; able to effectively use the Internet to research information

- Ability to communicate in another language is an asset
- Researches, collects and organizes up-to-date settlement-related information using knowledge and skills related to barriers facing Assylum Seekers
- Completes and maintains client files as per funder and YMCA quality standards

- Facilitates and organizes group information sessions for clients and individual 1:1 support as needed
- Develops relationships to ensure all Immigrants are welcomed
- Be able to develop a immigration and settlement plan

- Strong knowledge on accessing supports and resources on immigration options
- Understands the network of community and settlement supports available
- Strong Understanding of the Immigration Process

- Understanding of different cultures and cultural practices
- Clear Police Reference Check and Vulnerable Sector Screening
- A reliable vehicle is required for outreach in the community

- Willingness to participate in mandated training to be completed before or shortly after

commencement of work including:

- AODA Training
- Health & Safety Awareness Training

- Bill 168 (Violence & Harassment in the Workplace) Training
- PCI Compliance
- Child Safeguarding Orientation
- Willingness to be able to work flexible schedule based on client needs

Why work for the Y: At the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, we believe in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members and staff. As a Settlement Counselor, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of our participants and the community.

You will work alongside a supportive team of individuals who are committed to our vision of building vibrant and connected communities where everyone belongs.

Perks:

- Compensation: $24.89
- Paid Well- Being Days
- YMCA Health,



Fitness & Aquatics Membership

When people find a community where they belong, they shine. At the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, we believe in creating spaces where everyone belongs. In addition to a competitive salary and benefits package, we offer ongoing training and development opportunities to help you grow professionally and personally. If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career, working with a diverse team where your own ideas will be heard, then the YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka is the perfect place for you.

About us:

The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is a registered charity dedicated to building healthier, stronger communities by promoting physical, mental, and social well-being for all. We offer a wide range of inclusive and affordable programs and services to individuals and families, regardless of their background or financial situation.

Applications will remain open until August 24, 2026.

This role is for an existing vacancy that is available or will be available at the time of fulfillment. We wish to express our appreciation to all applicants for their interest in this position; however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is committed to fair and accessible employment practices. Our goal is a diverse, inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. Each step of our recruitment process is human-led; we do not use artificial intelligence (AI) or automated screening tools. Individuals needing employment accommodation in the hiring process or job postings in an alternative format may contact the People and Culture department at [email protected].

In keeping with our commitment to child and youth safeguarding, job offers are contingent on the successful completion of a Police Records Check and employment reference checks.

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.

Police Records

Checks must be renewed every three years.

📌 Settlement Counsellor ID #1604 (Bradford West Gwillimbury)
🏢 YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka
📍 Bradford West Gwillimbury