Program Support Assistant

Program Support Assistant CRR Connect – Community Drop-In (Pilot Program)

In-person, Downtown Ottawa

To provide kind interaction and support during in-person programs and contribute to development or execution of programs

🟣Organization Profile

Capital Rainbow Refuge is a registered charity founded in 2010 to support and sponsor LGBTQI+ refugees. Through volunteer-led sponsor groups, advocacy, community building and outreach, we help LGBTQI+ refugees and newcomers arrive and thrive in Eastern Ontario.

🟣Program Overview

CRR Connect is a new volunteer-led pilot program providing safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces for LGBTQI+ newcomer refugees in Ottawa. Volunteers help create a supportive environment during monthly drop-ins. This program is an exciting opportunity for volunteers to contribute directly to the development of a new initiative, shape its delivery, and strengthen community belonging. CRR is committed to anti-racism, anti-oppression, and gender-affirming practices. We strongly encourage applications from individuals with lived experience of migration, displacement, and/or 2SLGBTQI+ identities.

🟣Volunteer Requirements (Updated)

• Evening availability once per month (typically Thursdays, 6:00–8:00 PM)
• Comfortable interacting with diverse community members
• Able to support group settings and foster inclusion
• Completion of mandatory onboarding session before first shift
• Willingness to provide a Police Record Check (may begin supporting sessions while in process)
• Commitment to complete online trauma-informed training and a DEI training (highly recommended)
• Awareness of confidentiality, power dynamics, and professional boundaries

🟣Roles & Responsibilities Volunteers will:

• Support CRR Connect drop-in activities during monthly evening program
• Welcome participants and help create a safe, inclusive, and affirming environment
• Assist with room setup/cleanup, and preparation of materials or food
• Interact with community members
• Follow trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and equity-based practices
• Respect confidentiality and boundaries
• Report any concerns or incidents to CRR staff immediately
• Work under the guidance and supervision of the CRR staff team

🟣Volunteer Requirements

• Evening availability once per month (typically Thursdays 6:00PM–8:00 PM)
• Additional time for mandatory onboarding session, follow-up or committee meetings as needed (No more than 4 additional hours per month)
• Willingness to provide a Police Record Check (you may begin supporting sessions while this is in process)
• Comfort in diverse group settings and awareness of power dynamics

🟣Skills & Experience (Assets)

• Lived experience as a newcomer or refugee is highly valued. Experience working with LGBTQ+ communities or newcomers is a strong asset.
• We serve a diverse community of newcomers. While not required, proficiency in second languages is highly encouraged
• Understanding of trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, and equity-based approaches
• Ability to follow policies, procedures, and confidentiality requirements
• Experience in event support, program facilitation, or community outreach is an asset

🟣Time commitment & Key Dates

• Application Deadline: March 15, 2026
• Mandatory In-Person Onboarding & First Meeting on March 19, 2026 - Time: 6:00 PM - Location: Central Ottawa (Address will be shared with selected

individuals)

🟣How to Apply

Please email your resume and a short cover letter to volunteer@capitalrainbow.ca with the subject line: “Volunteer Application CRR Connect – [Your Name]”