Resettlement Assistance Program Support Worker – Wood Buffalo

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 RAP Program Support Worker (RAPW) provides client-centered, trauma-informed services to refugees transitioning to life in Canada by providing practical assistance and emotional support. The role encompasses the period from the refugees' arrival in Canada until they move into permanent housing. RAPWs conduct settlement assessments, help clients navigate the settlement process, and provide financial and temporary accommodations to promote stability and personal success.

This position requires a regular use of a vehicle. You must be able to work a flexible schedule including evenings and possible weekends to meet the needs of the families we work with. This is a full-time contract position till March 31, 2027, with the possibility of extension.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct initial assessments of newly arrived refugees to understand their needs and create individualized resettlement plans.
• Assist clients in completing required paperwork for resettlement services, including government forms, housing applications, and benefits enrollment.
• Ensure clients are aware of their rights and available resources in Canada, including orientation sessions about their new environment, including practical information on housing, healthcare, education, transportation, and local laws.
• Help clients secure temporary and permanent housing, ensuring the accommodation meets their needs and is appropriate for their family size.
• Assist with the logistics of moving into new homes, including transportation, setting up utilities, and purchasing necessary household items.
• Encourage the development of peer support networks, including connecting clients with others from similar backgrounds or experiences.
• Support clients in integrating into their new community by connecting them with local cultural, recreational, and social activities.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary degree/diploma in Social Work, Human Services, or related field.
• Minimum 2 years of experience working with immigrant, refugee, or marginalized populations in a settlement or social service setting.
• Valid driver's license and access to a vehicle. Clear driver's abstract and proof of liability insurance is needed upon hire. Travel in Fort McMurray and nearby communities within the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo.
• Fluency in multiple languages is highly desirable, especially languages spoken by local immigrant or refugee populations.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends to meet the needs of the families we work with.
• Working knowledge in a variety of social work areas, including immigration and refugee issues, social determinants of health, harm reduction, individual assessment, and case management.
• Culturally sensitive and trauma-informed practice, and strength-based approach.

Certifications:

• Annual registration in a professional organization as required by law.
• Intermediate (Standard) First Aid, CPR-C.
• Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector Search.
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and Suicide Intervention Certification is an asset.

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.