As a Volunteer Mentor, you will play a meaningful role in helping newcomers build confidence, social connections, and a sense of belonging in their new community. This role combines both group facilitation and one-on-one mentorship, offering opportunities to support participants through workshops, community activities, and individualized guidance.

You will be matched with a newcomer to Canada and provide encouragement, social support, and practical insights about life in Canada. As a mentor, you are not expected to be an expert. Instead, you will serve as a friendly guide, active listener, and supportive connection who helps create a welcoming and inclusive environment.

A key part of this role involves facilitating or co-facilitating group programs and activities that support social integration. You will help participants build relationships, develop communication skills, learn about Canadian culture, and connect with community resources. You may also support community outings and recreational activities by accompanying participants to popular destinations, local attractions, community events, libraries, cultural sites, and other places that help newcomers become more familiar with their city and community.

Through both group and individual support, you will help newcomers strengthen their social networks, increase their confidence, and successfully navigate everyday life in Canada.

Responsibilities:

As a Volunteer Mentor for the Community Connections: Supporting Newcomers to Thrive in Canada, you will:

• Facilitate or co-facilitate group workshops, information sessions, and social activities focused on newcomer integration and community engagement
• Lead and support group discussions on topics such as building social networks, communication skills, Canadian culture, community participation, and everyday life in Canada
• Meet regularly with your assigned mentee, either virtually or in person, to provide consistent one-on-one support
• Foster a positive, respectful, and supportive mentoring relationship
• Encourage meaningful cultural exchange and conversational English practice
• Share practical insights about living in Canada, including accessing community services and navigating everyday systems
• Support participants in identifying and accessing local resources, programs, and opportunities
• Accompany and support newcomers during community outings, recreational activities, and visits to local attractions, public spaces, and community events
• Encourage participation in social and community activities to increase confidence and community connections
• Assist mentees in setting personal goals related to settlement, social integration, and community engagement
• Maintain communication with program staff and report any concerns or participant needs

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary education or equivalent lived or professional experience is an asset
• Experience working with diverse communities or newcomers is an advantage
• Friendly, patient, and welcoming
• Comfortable facilitating discussions and engaging small groups
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills
• Interested in learning about and celebrating diverse cultures and experiences
• Reliable and committed to supporting participants on a regular basis
• Comfortable connecting individuals to community resources and supports
• Able to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and participants from diverse backgrounds

Eligibility Requirements:

• Requires English proficiency at a minimum CLB Level 6 or higher
• Able to volunteer on site between Monday to Friday
• Be 21 years of age or older
• Comfortable participating in community-based activities and local outings

Training:

• Training will be provided. Training includes orientation to WoodGreen, program-specific training sessions, and documentation procedures.

Screening Requirements:

• Resume
• Interview
• Two references (1 personal, 1 professional)
• Vulnerable Sector Screening (instructions provided after acceptance)

Commitment:

• Approximately 3 hours per week, scheduled between Monday and Friday during regular business hours (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
• Minimum commitment of 6 months preferred
• Flexibility to attend occasional group workshops, events, and community outings

Locations:

• 1494 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON
• 815 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON
• Hybrid (combination of onsite, community-based, and virtual activities)

Start Date:

• September 2026