The Community Worker Program:  George Brown College

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Community Worker Program began in 1975 in response to community requests for individuals trained for community support, program leadership and community development. 

Graduates work in issue-focused community groups, resident/tenant associations, neighbourhood services, self-help organizations, and advocacy groups engaged in community development. 

The program emphasizes the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to be a community organizer, advocate, group facilitator and popular educator. The program focuses on human rights, community services, social justice and community development and functions as an introduction to the many social service agencies in our multicultural city. 

This is a two-year Diploma Program. In the Second, Third and Fourth semesters, students spend two days per week in supervised field placements with community organizations and social service agencies. 

Classroom instruction emphasizes developing greater understanding of contemporary society by encouraging students to share their ideas and experience. There is a tradition of participatory learning in our classes, and a commitment to dialogue and the integration of theory and practice.  The Faculty has, collectively, over 100 years of experience working and teaching within the fields of community development, adult basic education, community service, and international development.

The Community Worker Program requires a high level of maturity. Students must be prepared to examine their own behaviour and ideas critically and must be able to relate to people who differ from themselves in a respectful and supportive manner. 

For those seeking to enter the program, previous community involvement is a major asset. The abilities to write, read and speak 'standard' English clearly and well are essential. Knowledge of other languages, dialects and American Sign Language (ASL) is also important to community workers.  (ASL translation in class is available for Community Worker students at George Brown College.)

Graduates are often employed by non-governmental organizations, including a wide variety of advocacy groups, co-operatives, community centres and social service agencies. Recent graduates are working in jobs such as Program Coordinator, Bridges for Youth; Shelter Worker, Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter; Youth International Project Coordinator, Hispanic Development Council; Counselor, COSTI; Support Worker, York South Association for Community Living; and Community Development Worker, Jane-Finch Family and Community Centre.  Starting salaries range between $28,000 and $35,000.