COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS SPECIALIST

Job Title: COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS SPECIALIST

Full-time position (35 hours per week)

Contract Start date: April 1, 2025; Contract End date: March 31st, 2026

Reports to: Senior Manager

DEADLINE TO APPLY: March 5th  , 2025

ABOUT ACSA COMMUNITY SERVICES:

Do you believe in a world where everyone has equal opportunities, where community support helps dreams come true? ACSA Community Services is your gateway to making this vision a reality. As a cornerstone of the community for over 50 years, ACSA has been dedicated to uplifting those in need.   We offer vital programs like youth empowerment initiatives, emergency food and housing services, and newcomer supports to help individuals and families thrive. We are diligent in supporting our neighbours in Scarborough, North York and York Region. By getting involved, you're not just giving aid; you're becoming a part of our mission to build a brighter, more equitable future.  

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

The Community Connections Specialist will manage all activities related to community connections including staff supervision, partnership development, and preparation of reports and documentation needed.  The Community Connections Specialist will also be at the forefront of shaping outreach strategies to, ensuring timely implementation of activities, and cultivating the cultural ethos that defines collaborative spirit.   This role is responsible for designing and implementing programs that foster a sense of belonging, promote community building, and enhance Indigenous-Newcomer relations.  In addition, it also involves supporting the Community Connections team and volunteers, ensuring program effectiveness, and building partnerships with key stakeholders.  

Refer to ACSA Community Services for more information about ACSA’s work. 

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Program Leadership and Development

• Support the set up of community connections programming; 
• Support the design, implementation, and evaluation of programs aimed at strengthening Indigenous-Newcomer relations and community connections;
• Provide support in setting up and implementing the YOLO Program (Youth Optimize Learning to Overcome), empowering newcomer youth and cultivating their spirit of resilience, knowledge-building, and self-improvement;
• Develop and oversee initiatives that promote cross-cultural awareness, reconciliation, and collaboration between Indigenous and newcomer communities;
• Ensure programs address social isolation, promote resilience, and foster a sense of belonging for marginalized groups;
• Collaborate with community partners, organizations, and leaders to create inclusive and accessible community-building activities.

Team Collaboration

• Provide support and mentorship, to team members of the Community Connections, ensuring the delivery of high quality services;
• Support staff in resolving challenges and ensuring they have the resources needed to achieve program goals;
• Foster a positive and collaborative team culture that aligns with organizational values;

Community Engagement and Outreach

• Build and maintain relationships with Indigenous and newcomer communities to understand their needs and develop relevant programs;
• Organize and participate in community events, workshops, and activities to encourage engagement and collaboration;
• Serve as a liaison between the organization, community groups, and other stakeholders to promote mutual understanding and support;
• Advocate for systemic changes to improve access and equity for Indigenous and newcomer communities.

Team Collaboration

• Provide support to the Settlement Supervisor in ensuring that community connections program is running smoothly 
• Collaborate effectively with members of the Newcomers’ Centre Team and the broader ACSA team to achieve shared goals.
• Actively participate in team meetings, organizational activities, and events hosted by ACSA to foster engagement and alignment.
• Exhibit a strong team-oriented mindset by supporting colleagues, contributing to a positive work environment, and demonstrating a commitment to collective success.

Program Administration

• Monitor and evaluate program outcomes using data-driven approaches to ensure continuous improvement and alignment with organizational goals, including data entry to OCMS and ICARE system;
• Prepare periodic reports to be submitted to the Settlement Supervisor or Manager; 
• Ensure that resources are allocated effectively and efficiently;
• Ensure compliance with all organizational policies, procedures, and funding requirements.

ABOUT YOU

• Post-secondary degree or diploma in social work, community development, or a related field; 
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in program management, community engagement, or a related role. Experience working with Indigenous and newcomer communities is highly preferred;
• Proven ability to lead and supervise a team, with strong mentoring and coaching abilities;
• Deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, histories, and the challenges faced by newcomer communities. Demonstrated ability to promote cross-cultural understanding and reconciliation;
• Demonstrated understanding of newcomer issues; 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with experience in public speaking and facilitation;
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with experience in program evaluation and outcome measurement;
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work effectively in a fast-paced environment;
• Highly proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and demonstrated experience with data management systems such as OCMS and ICARE is an asset;
• Bilingual in another language is an asset; 
• Valid Ontario G-class driver’s license, clean drivers abstract and access to a vehicle is an asset;
• Flexibility to work evenings or weekends as required for community events or programs is mandatory;
• Current First Aid CPR is an asset;
• Valid Police Records Check prior to starting employment.

What we offer:

Full time employment with benefits after 6 months/Part time employment  

3-week vacation, 15 sick days, 2 float days  

An amazing work culture full of great, caring people truly committed to changing lives!  

Please apply via email (cover letter & resume in one attachment) to:

Attention: Jamillah T. Mananghaya, Senior Manager

Email: mjamillah@acsa.ca

(Please quote Community Connections Specialist in the subject line of email)

No phone calls please.

ACSA is strongly committed to fostering diversity within our community. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our staff including, but not limited to, women, visible minorities, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities, and/or persons of any sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.  We thank all applicants for their interest in the position. However, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview. If you are contacted by ACSA regarding a job opportunity and need accommodation throughout a hiring process, please contact Yamini de Costa at hr@agincourtcommunityservices.com. 

This address is for accommodation inquiries ONLY. Job applications sent to it will not be considered.