Since 1949, TVCC has been working with children and youth to help them reach their full potential. Today, a wide range of services and supports are provided for young people with physical disabilities, communication disorders, developmental delays and autism spectrum disorders to support them in attaining the best available quality of life and health. In partnership with local and regional agencies, TVCC annually serves more than 11,000 children, youth and their families from birth to age 19 across Southwestern Ontario in over 700 locations. 

We are currently recruiting for a temporary, part-time (15 hours per week) Parent Mentor. Parent Mentors are parents of children/youth with disabilities (physical disabilities, communication disorders, developmental delays and autism spectrum disorders) who support parents/caregivers of TVCC clients with navigating special education pathways and services in school.

This position is expected to start in March 2025 and end in January 2026. The designated office location for this position is London. Services are provided in Middlesex, Elgin, Oxford, Huron, Perth, Grey and Bruce counties. A flexible work schedule is required. This is a daytime position including some work on evenings and weekends. 

Responsibilities:

• Mentor and coach parents in developing and maintaining effective relationships with school, health and community personnel using a strength-based solution focused approach;  
• Work with TVCC teams through the lens of lived experience to mentor and coach parents and caregivers of youth with disabilities to understand and identify ways to enhance family well-being through everyday activities;
• Contribute to the ongoing development of strong social networks for families;
• Develop new group and educational opportunities for families;
• Work within a multidisciplinary team delivering educational, interactive workshops;
• Assist families in understanding and effectively using available resources;
• Connect with families in a variety of settings (e.g. community, schools, Centre, etc.);
• Provide presentations for school, healthcare and community members;
• Participate and actively contribute to TVCC’s Client Advisory Council Voice and subcommittees;
• Participate in the ongoing evaluation of the service.

Qualifications:

• Completion of 2-year post-secondary program;
• Life experience as a parent/primary caregiver of a child/youth with a disability (i.e., physical disability, developmental disability, autism spectrum disorder and/or communication disorder) who has experienced the education system
• Demonstrated Solution Focused approach and the ability to focus on strengths and solutions;
• Experience guiding/mentoring/coaching others;  
• Previous active participation in a parent group (e.g. School Councils, etc.); 
• Knowledge and experience with the education system;
• Knowledge of diversity and appreciation of families’ individual needs;
• Experience with virtual and social media platforms (e.g. Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meets, Facebook, X);
• Computer proficiency including Microsoft Office 365 package of software;
• Demonstrated leadership, initiative and creativity, as well as interpersonal and organizational skills;
• Valid Ontario driver’s licence and access to a vehicle are required;
• Current CPR and First Aid certification.

TVCC is committed to equity and inclusion in the recruitment of qualified staff who reflect and support the diverse perspectives, experiences and needs of clients.