The Toronto Community Benefits Network (TCBN) has centred itself at the forefront of the economic justice movement in Canada by negotiating Community Benefits Agreements (CBAs) into public infrastructure and urban development projects. In so doing, TCBN is addressing the challenges of access to good jobs, local economic development and neighbourhood revitalization particularly as they impact on historically disadvantaged communities and equity seeking groups in Toronto. TCBN employs a comprehensive approach that includes organizing, innovative policy, research, and communications. TCBN’s efforts have led to Ontario’s first Community Benefits Framework with Metrolinx that includes a Community Benefits Apprenticeship Plan, a Community Benefits Liaison Plan and a Declaration on Hiring Targets for the Eglinton Crosstown, along with subsequent agreements for the Finch West LRT, West Park Hospital and Woodbine Casino. For more information about our work, visit communitybenefits.ca.
ROLE SUMMARY
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Mentorship Coordinator is responsible for all aspects of Mentoring initiatives associated with TCBN’s role in supporting the implementation of Community Benefits Agreements. TCBN leads a number of mentoring initiatives designed to ensure that historically underrepresented groups - women, youth, newcomers, racialized and indigenous people - are aware of and can succeed in apprenticeships and employment opportunities in construction trades. Our research over the past two years indicates that a variety of mentoring strategies are needed to support underrepresented groups on all phases of their journey to become fully qualified in Red Seal trades.
The Mentoring Coordinator will be responsible for coordinating a comprehensive mentoring program that offers underrepresented groups moral support and practical guidance as they move from career exploration, through pre-apprenticeship training, into apprenticeship and employment and progress to Red Seal Certification. The role includes coordinating TCBN’s Next GEN Builders Mentoring Program for Black Youth Success in Construction, and the various mentoring strategies for women, newcomers and indigenous people. Strategies will include group mentoring, peer mentoring, and one on one mentoring matches, along with training sessions for mentors and mentees, and linking community hosts and career guidance professionals with trades and apprenticeship ambassadors.
