Settlement Worker – Community Services
Paris, Ontario
About the Role
Darmont GivesBack is seeking a compassionate and resourceful Settlement Worker to support newcomers, refugees, immigrants, and vulnerable community members as they navigate life in Brant County. This position combines client support, advocacy, program delivery, and resource coordination to promote independence and well-being through the organization’s DGB Connect Virtual Hub and community programs.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct client intake interviews to understand each individual's background, challenges, and priorities.
- Identify needs related to housing, employment, education, language, healthcare, legal matters, and social integration.
- Develop individualized settlement or service plans with short-term and long-term goals.
- Provide information and orientation services to help clients navigate healthcare, banking, schooling, housing, and government programs.
- Connect clients to appropriate services through the DGB Connect Virtual Hub and partner organizations.
- Deliver presentations and workshops on topics such as life skills, financial literacy, job readiness, and Canadian culture.
- Coordinate referrals to community resources including housing supports, legal aid, employment programs, mental health services, food banks, and childcare.
- Assist clients with completing forms, booking appointments, and communicating with agencies.
- Advocate on behalf of clients who face barriers such as discrimination, language challenges, or systemic obstacles.
- Plan and facilitate group sessions including conversation circles, life-skills training, and community orientation.
- Organize community events that promote social interaction, cultural connection, and community engagement.
- Maintain detailed client records, service plans, progress notes, and follow-up documentation.
- Conduct community outreach by attending events, visiting schools or shelters, and partnering with local agencies.
- Assist clients in crisis situations, offering immediate support and referrals for emergencies.
Skills You Will Develop
- Adaptability: Respond effectively to complex and evolving client needs and community challenges.
- Collaboration: Partner with local agencies, service providers, and community organizations.
- Communication: Develop skills in cross-cultural communication, active listening, and case documentation.
- Creativity and Innovation: Design culturally responsive programming and find creative solutions for clients.
- Digital Skills: Use case management tools, databases, the DGB Connect Virtual Hub, and digital communication platforms.
- Problem-solving: Navigate complex settlement challenges and identify practical, client-centred solutions.
Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in or recently completed a post-secondary program in Social Work, Community Development, Immigration and Refugee Studies, or a related field.
- Experience working with newcomers, marginalized populations, or in a community service role (paid or volunteer).
- Strong cross-cultural communication skills and a commitment to culturally sensitive practice.
- Knowledge of settlement services, community resources, and social support systems in Ontario.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with professionalism.
- Strong organizational skills and comfort with case documentation and data entry.
- Proficiency in basic digital tools including Microsoft Office and email platforms.
Supervision & Mentorship
Participants will receive daily supervision from an experienced manager with more than two years in a supervisory role. Supervision will combine direct oversight with independent work, and formal written feedback will be provided on a scheduled basis. A dedicated mentor will meet with participants weekly in a one-on-one format, providing career-related training, skills development support, and access to relevant learning materials.
Equity & Inclusion
This position prioritizes recruitment of:
Darmont GivesBack is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.