Overview

The YMCA is a charity that has been helping Canadians improve their lives since the first Y opened in 1851. Y programs are offered at more than 1,700 locations across Canada and help more than 2.25 million people annually become healthier in spirit, mind, and body. The YMCA of the National Capital Region proudly serves people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, and works to address critical social needs in our community. We are a leader and valued partner in creating a vibrant and healthy community where everyone belongs and can reach their full potential.

This position requires a commitment to the Y mission and core values of responsibility, honesty, caring, respect, and inclusion, which form the foundation of all Y programs and services.

Working for the Y

Are you looking to use your skills and unique gifts to make a real difference in your community? The YMCA of the National Capital Region is a great workplace committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, where different backgrounds, experiences, and identities are appreciated and celebrated. The YMCA provides hundreds of employees with meaningful jobs and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities. We recognize the contributions of our staff through innovative practices, great benefits, and growth opportunities. Whether you are starting out in your career or a seasoned professional, you will find many exciting opportunities to achieve your personal and career goals.

Vacancy Status: This job posting is for an existing vacancy.

What do we offer?

At the Y, you will be part of a vibrant and diverse network of people whose shared vision is to change lives and make our communities home to the healthiest children, teens, adults, and families.

Our competitive wage and benefit package include:

• Free YMCA gym membership;

• Discounted Y program fees (including health & fitness programs, child care, and camps);

• Access to our YMCA Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) including free, immediate, confidential assistance and counselling for you and your family members for mental and physical health, and financial advice, among other 12 suites of services;

• Health and Dental Insurance;

• Long-term Disability and Life Insurance;

• Access to our Canadian YMCA Retirement Fund pension plan;

• Up to 25 vacation days per year including two float days, and one birthday vacation;

• Maternity leave benefits for up to 18 months.

• Some benefits may vary based on employment terms

What do you offer?

The Youth Advisor plays a vital role inside and outside of the Your Job Story pre-employment program. While in program, they are responsible for co-facilitating training workshops focused on essential skills, life skills, and pre-employment skills. They are also focused on mentoring and supporting youth in navigating their personal success plan, with a particular emphasis on overcoming barriers to employment. Outside of program, the Youth Advisor contributes to the development of course materials, resources and overall program activities including recruitment, networking and building partnerships with potential employers and services.

Some of the tasks of this position include:

• Intaking, assessing and developing job search activities and case management.
• Providing employment consultation to clients and maintaining and developing action plans for job searches.
• Ensuring quality of the Y experience for program participants.
• Preparing all statistical and required reports and appropriate file documentation.
• Implementing procedures for operation of programs within the guidelines and contractual obligations.
• Working with staff and managers to resolve any issues relating to the program.
• Assisting program participants in the creation of an Action Plan to map out goals for employment and/or training.

What qualifications and abilities are we looking for?

At the YMCA of the National Capital Region, we strive to ensure our employees are a fit based on their strengths, interests, and future goals.

The successful candidate will have the following:

Education

• Post-secondary education or equivalent in a related field (e.g., Social Sciences, Social Service Worker, Child and Youth Worker)

Language

• Fluent in English, oral and written
• French is an asset

Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Experience in providing coaching and mentorship
• Experience working with youth, especially in an employment setting
• Intermediate computer skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other databases
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work with clients with diverse backgrounds and skill levels
• Superior problem solving and creative skills
• Ability to create a strong presence and provide a welcoming environment

Additional Requirements:

• Current Standard First Aid & CPR “C” certification is an asset
• Applicants must already have a valid permit to work in Canada.
• A Police Record check, not more than 6 months old is required. 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.
• Semi-annually, staff must complete the mandatory training for the protection of Children & Youth and submit the certificate of completion.

Core Competencies:

• Organizational Awareness and Understanding: Demonstrates and promotes a personal understanding of and appreciation for the vision, mission, and values of the YMCA of the National Capital Region.
• Planning and Organization: Ability to establish a clearly defined and effective course of action for self and others to accomplish short- and long-term work goals.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify an issue, gather and process relevant information, determine possible solutions, select appropriate responses, and implement and evaluate them.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Ability to speak, write, listen, and secure information effectively in a variety of settings. Ability to cooperate with others to achieve results. Ability to create and build relationships inside and outside the organization.
• Teamwork: Participates actively in a team for program quality and effectiveness.
• Empathy: Ability to walk in another’s shoes, familiarity and comfort with issues, concerns and lifestyles of the program target groups, win the trust and confidence of people, and accept diversity.
• Leadership: Ability to motivate and inspire self and others to take action to achieve desired outcomes, and identify and secure resources necessary to accomplish organizational goals.

About diversity and inclusiveness at the Y:

Inclusiveness is a part of our core values and we are committed to ensuring the diversity of the people and communities we serve and as well as our staff. We welcome candidates from racialized groups, invisible minorities, Indigenous People, women, persons with disabilities, persons who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.

YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to accessibility in employment and to ensuring equal access to employment opportunities for candidates, including persons with disabilities. In compliance with AODA, the YMCA will endeavour to provide accommodation to people with disabilities in the recruitment process upon request. If you are selected for an interview and require accommodation due to a disability during the recruitment process, please email peopleandculture@ymcaottawa.ca upon scheduling your interview.

Statement on Use of Artificial Intelligence in Employment Decisions:

At the YMCA, we are committed to maintaining a fair and equitable hiring process. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants for any positions of employment. All employment decisions are made by our dedicated People and Culture team, ensuring that each candidate is evaluated on an individual basis with the utmost consideration for their unique qualifications and experiences.

How to apply?

All internal applicants must inform their supervisor of their intention to apply for the position.

Thank you for your interest in joining the YMCA of the National Capital Region. We appreciate all applications. Due to the volume of applicants, we are only able to contact those selected for further consideration in the hiring process.

The YMCA of the National Capital Region is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer.