Y Community Connector Volunteer

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 a new volunteer position.

What 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 package includes:

• Free YMCA gym membership

What do you offer?

The Community Connector is a volunteer role that helps create a welcoming, inclusive, and engaging YMCA experience for adults aged 55 and older. Working collaboratively with YMCA staff and fellow volunteers, Community Connectors welcome visitors, share information about programs and services, help newcomers feel comfortable, and encourage social connections. Volunteers support the YMCA in reaching older adults both within the facility and throughout the broader community by promoting programs and activities, assisting with events, and helping individuals discover opportunities to stay active, connected, and engaged. Through friendly interactions, community outreach, and a commitment to inclusion, volunteers help foster a sense of belonging, build meaningful connections, and support the YMCA’s mission and values.

Some of the tasks of this position include:

• Work collaboratively to support the planning and improvement of senior programs and events.
• Represent the YMCA in a friendly, professional, and inclusive manner.
• Demonstrate active listening, respect for diverse perspectives, teamwork, diplomacy, and the ability to maintain confidentiality when appropriate.

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:

Language

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

Experience, Skills and Abilities

• Current Standard First Aid & CPR “C” certification

• Passion for fitness, health, and community wellness
• Ability to work with people of different ages and abilities

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to motivate and build rapport with diverse clients

• Excellent Customer Service Skills particularly as it relates to members experience

Additional Requirements:

• 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:

• Excellence: Identifies and implements improvements that enhance work quality.
• Compassion: Involves warmth and supportive communication. Fosters understanding and collaboration, leading to a positive work environment.
• Dignity: Involves respecting every individual’s worth, promoting fairness and valuing perspectives. It encourages a culture of integrity, mutual respect, and empowerment.
• Accountability: Manages tasks, projects, and processes effectively.
• Inclusion: Demonstrates self-awareness and commitment to IDEA, ethics, and well-being.

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.

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.