Volunteer Role: English Conversation Circle Facilitator

Role Description

Launched in 1992, the program helps newcomers integrate into Canada and their communities by practicing their English skills through small group conversation circles.

In addition to developing language competency, the LINC program also focuses on improving the participant’s settlement journey in Canada. English is learned through a variety of real-world tasks and situations like navigating online banking systems, ordering groceries online, or booking doctor’s appointments virtually. Language and communication skills are developed through sessions on financial literacy, mental health and wellbeing, Indigenous history and culture, the school system in Canada, and so on. This wholistic approach to learning a language is crucial for newcomers to settle and thrive in a new country

To learn more about this program, click here.

Need to Know
Type of Position: In-person
Location: 255 Ranee Ave, North York, ON M6A 2P4
Language Required: English. Second language is a bonus.
Time Commitment: One session per week as well as some one-on-one
Training and Supervision: Reports to LINC instructors and the Volunteer Coordinator

Responsibilities

In this role, you will
Facilitate English conversation circles with small to mid-sized groups (English level 1 -4)
Manage group and facilitate conversation on different topics, based on weekly class lesson topics
Work with language instructors to design conversation activities and offer one-on-one tutoring support, were needed

We look for volunteers that have
Some previous tutoring experience (formally or informally) with beginner English learners
A strong understanding of the English Language
A passion for working with people and interacting with other cultures
A friendly and positive attitude
Leadership and Facilitation skills
Bonus: fluency in Arabic, Dari/Pashto and Russian/Ukrainian, and any other language

Benefits of this role include
Reference letters
Building personal network
Building leadership and facilitation skills
Developing strong interpersonal skills
Working with newcomers who may have limited English
A deeper understanding of the challenges facing newcomers

Training and Evaluation

Training for this role includes facilitation training and shadowing from other instructors and tutors.

A volunteer is successful when
Newcomers are able to connect to their community and make new friends
There is improvement in the newcomers’ language skills and understanding of Canadian culture

For more information, contact
Danielle Benton, Volunteer Coordinator
dbenton@nych.ca | 437-343-5516