College Diploma - Community Worker (C101)

Program Overview

The Community Worker (C101) program at George Brown College is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to advocate for progressive social change. This program focuses on working with organizations, communities, and individuals to address critical issues such as poverty, housing, legal rights, discrimination, food justice, and immigration. With nearly 50 years of history, this program stands out as one of the few of its kind in Canada, emphasizing a commitment to human rights and social justice. Graduates of this program can apply for the designation of Registered Social Service Worker (RSSW) upon completion, further enhancing their professional credentials.

Program Structure

The Community Worker program is structured as a two-year full-time diploma program, consisting of four semesters. The program combines classroom instruction with practical field placements, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in community settings. Key features of the program structure include:

• Classroom instruction that incorporates innovative teaching methods, including interactive lectures, group activities, and guest panels.
• Supervised field placements in semesters 2, 3, and 4, providing students with real-world experience in various community organizations.
• Opportunities to work in small and large groups to prepare for field placements, fostering collaboration and teamwork.
• Courses organized into four core areas: community work theory and practice, social and political analysis, group skills and counseling, and field placement and seminar.

Students will also have the chance to engage with community partners through networking events and guest panels, enhancing their learning experience and professional connections.

Featured Experiences

• Field placements with over 350 community agencies across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
• Partnerships with organizations such as Anishnawbe Health Toronto, allowing for direct entry into the second year for eligible students.
• The Tommy Douglas Institute, which promotes dialogue on critical pedagogy and social justice issues.
• Access to the Courage My Friends podcast, discussing contemporary community and education topics.
• Recognition as the recipient of the South Africa Most Transformative Program Award for 2022/2023 from EDU Africa Virtual Internship.

Career Options

Graduates of the Community Worker program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

• Shelter Supervisor: Overseeing operations in shelters, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents.
• International Development Worker: Engaging in projects that promote sustainable development and social justice in global contexts.
• Immigration and Refugee Settlement Worker: Assisting newcomers in navigating the settlement process and accessing community resources.
• Community Development Advocate: Working with communities to identify needs and develop programs that address social issues.
• Health and Community Advocate: Promoting health equity and advocating for marginalized populations in areas such as food justice and Indigenous rights.

These roles reflect the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make meaningful contributions to society and support vulnerable populations.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.