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:

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Settlement Support Worker in Schools (SWIS) assist immigrants, refugees, and other eligible clients with immediate needs for settling in Canada and with ongoing integration into Canadian society. The primary focus of settlement workers in schools is to advocate on client's behalf as required to facilitate integration and settlement of newcomer families. SWIS specialize in supporting students with their transition to the education system, provide orientation, needs assessment, routine follow up, cross-cultural connection activities, and referrals. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with diverse populations and work to understand and help them overcome their own unique set of challenges.

This position will provide support for maternity leave coverage ending August 2026.

Responsibilities:

• Conducts settlement needs assessment, action planning, and provides referrals
• Provides settlement consultation (education system, transition to life in Canada, health and well-being, community resources etc.)
• Provides referrals to services, accompaniment, and short-term emotional counselling
• Works collaboratively with the settlement and school teams to support transition to school for children and youth with complex needs and multiple barriers
• Provides interpretation and translation, related to settlement issues, education and family needs.
• Provides support with school registration and enrollment.
• Aids parents in increasing their awareness of the AB education system and facilitates their involvement in school life.
• Develops and distributes linguistically and culturally appropriate information/material
• Provides orientation to school staff about settlement/newcomer issues and emerging needs
• Assists schools with establishing and maintaining contact with “hard to reach” families
• Organizes and/or facilitates settlement-related events, camps and workshops in the schools
• Organizes and delivers community connection activities, including English conversation circles
• Ensures the confidentiality of client information

Qualifications:

• University Degree in Child and Youth Care Counselling, Human Services field or equivalent
• 2 years' experience working directly with youth and/or young adults with multiple risk factors
• Experience working with diverse populations
• Valid driver's license and vehicle
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and Suicide Intervention Certification are preferred
• Certifications: Standard First Aid & CPR-C
• Able to obtain a Police Information Check and Vulnerable sector and Child Intervention/Enhanced Security check

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.