Job Title: Outreach Worker / Community Developer
Organization: African Canadian Association of Ottawa (ACAO)
Location: Ottawa, Ontario
Position Type: Full-Time (3-Year Contract)
Start Date: ASAP
Salary: $32.75/hour plus benefits

About the Program

Pathways to Empowerment is a dynamic, multi-year program aimed at supporting at-risk newcomer youth aged 1324 in Ottawa, particularly those residing in shelters and transitional housing. The program offers mentorship, life skills, vocational support, mental health programming, and wraparound services for families, delivered in multiple languages including English, French, Swahili, and Arabic.

Position Summary

The Outreach Worker / Community Developer will lead the implementation of this expanded initiative by developing, coordinating, and delivering culturally responsive programming. The individual will work with youth, families, community partners, volunteers, and shelters to build trust, improve service accessibility, and provide hands-on support to empower newcomer youth and their families.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Coordination:
  Implement life skills, mentorship, mental health, and vocational training workshops in partnership with local organizations and professionals.
• Community Outreach & Engagement:
  Build relationships with shelters, transitional homes, schools, and local service providers to recruit youth and promote program offerings.
• Participant Support:
  Provide direct one-on-one support to youth; facilitate referrals to education, mental health, employment, and social services.
• Volunteer Coordination:
  Work with program staff to train, assign, and support volunteers contributing to tutoring, mentoring, and support services.
• Family Engagement:
  Coordinate wraparound services such as food distribution, parenting guidance, and access to donated clothing and basic needs.
• Monitoring & Reporting:
  Track outcomes through attendance records, surveys, and feedback forms. Provide data and success stories to inform ongoing improvements and stakeholder reporting.
• Multilingual and Inclusive Service Delivery:
  Ensure programs are inclusive and linguistically accessible; work with interpreters or deliver services in French, Swahili, or Arabic where possible.

Qualifications

• Postsecondary education in Social Work, Community Development, Education, Psychology, or a related field (or equivalent lived/professional experience).
• Minimum 2 years experience working with youth from immigrant, refugee, or marginalized backgrounds.
• Deep understanding of issues affecting Black, African, and racialized newcomer youth.
• Proven ability to work in community settings and engage diverse stakeholders.
• Strong organizational, facilitation, and communication skills.
• Ability to work evenings or weekends as required.
• Bilingualism (English and French) is required.
• Valid drivers license and access to a vehicle preferred.

Working Conditions

• Hybrid work model with outreach conducted across Ottawas priority neighborhoods.
• Occasional evening and weekend work.