Position: 35 hours/week (Contract – ending on March 31, 2027)
Reports to: Housing & Homelessness System Coordinator
Start date: November 3, 2025
Summary
The Empowerment and Life Skills Facilitator leads the delivery of the Financial Empowerment Program—a trauma-informed initiative designed to support women (ages 18–64) who have experienced gender-based violence (GBV). The program empowers participants to build economic independence through financial literacy, employment readiness, and individualized support. The Facilitator delivers group-based workshops and one-on-one coaching to help participants improve their financial confidence, budgeting and banking knowledge, job search strategies, and long-term financial planning. A key focus is on supporting women in overcoming the economic impacts of violence and achieving financial stability and self-sufficiency. All programming is grounded in trauma-informed, client-centered, and anti-oppressive frameworks.
In addition, the Facilitator supports women accessing services through system navigation, connecting them to resources that improve housing stability and overall life security. The Facilitator works under the guidance of the Director of Housing and in collaboration with internal teams and community partners, including housing workers, financial institutions, employers, and social service agencies.
Core Competencies
- Trauma-Informed and Gender-Responsive Practice
- Financial Literacy & Economic Empowerment
- Client-Centered Support
- Facilitation & Coaching
- Cultural Safety and Sensitivity
- Communication
- Emotional Intelligence
- Teamwork & Collaboration
- Conflict Resolution & Problem Solving
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Ethics and Integrity
Key Responsibilities
Program Facilitation and Participant Support
- Facilitate group-based financial empowerment sessions 3 days/week, 3 hours/day, across 3 seasonal program cycles (summer, fall, winter).
- Deliver accessible, trauma-informed workshops on budgeting, credit, savings, banking, debt management, financial planning, income supports, and economic safety planning.
- Conduct intake assessments and screen participants for program fit and readiness.
- Develop individualized Financial Empowerment & Employment Action Plans with each participant.
- Provide ongoing one-on-one coaching to support financial goals, career development, and confidence-building.
- Assist participants with job readiness, including resume writing, interview preparation, and job matching.
- Support women in identifying and addressing barriers to employment or financial independence, such as transportation, childcare, or financial abuse.
- Facilitate referrals to legal, housing, income support, or mental health services as needed.
- Create a safe, inclusive, and healing environment that prioritizes the dignity, autonomy, and empowerment of all participants.
Program Administration & Engagement
- Prepare workshop materials and adjust program content based on participant needs and financial trends.
- Maintain accurate records, including attendance, case notes, and success tracking.
- Enter participant data into the Ministry database and assist with reporting requirements.
- Promote the program through social media, community presentations, and outreach to referral partners.
- Build connections with financial institutions, job developers, and community agencies to enhance participant opportunities.
Team & Community Engagement
- Participate in team meetings, staff development, and case conferences.
- Build relationships with local shelters, community organizations, and GBV-specific service providers.
- Represent the YWCA in community tables and cross-sector collaborations focused on financial empowerment and housing stability.
Requirements
Education
- Post-secondary education in Financial Coaching, Social Work, Community Development, Gender Studies, or a related field.
- Certification or training in financial literacy, trauma-informed practice, or economic advocacy is recommended.
Experience
- Minimum 3 years’ experience supporting women affected by gender-based violence or poverty.
- Experience facilitating group workshops, especially on financial literacy or life skills.
- Familiarity with community resources, housing systems, and income support services.
- Understanding of the intersection between economic insecurity and GBV.
Skills and Abilities
- Compassionate and inclusive approach to facilitation and coaching.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Skilled in presenting financial concepts in an accessible and empowering way.
- Ability to manage group dynamics and provide one-on-one support.
- Organizational and time management skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and case management systems.
- Committed to equity, diversity, and trauma-informed service delivery.
Working Conditions
- In-office with some travel for community outreach or participant support.
- Occasional evening hours or overtime may be required.
- Public speaking and workshop facilitation are core aspects of the role.
- Must be comfortable using technology and handling confidential client information.
How to Apply
Interested Candidates can apply by submitting their cover letter and resume to: Jeannette Singh, Director or Housing & Life Stabilization via email jsingh@ywcaste.ca
Application deadline: October 20, 2025
The YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. If you require accommodations, please notify us and we will work with you to meet your needs. We are grateful to all candidates for their interest in this position; however, only those selected to move into the interview process will be contacted.