Be The Spark: Jody Williams

Position:
Program Manager, Immigration Services

Responsibilities:
Jody is responsible for overseeing the daily operations at YMCA Hamilton Settlement Services, coordinating programs and services that support newcomers and community members, while also managing a dedicated team. She ensures that the settlement services provided are impactful, inclusive, and accessible.  

Additionally, she plays a key role in maintaining partnerships with local organizations, guiding program development, and ensuring team members have the resources and support they need to deliver quality services.

Length of Employment:
30 years.

Over three decades, Jody has left her mark across the YMCA. When she first started in 1994, she worked at Ikea YMCA Child Care. Five years later, in 1999, she became the Coordinator of International Development and Education at the YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford, before taking her expertise to Tijuana, Mexico in 2001 where she was the Coordinator of Internatioanl Relations with the Mexican Federation of YMCAs.

In 2008, Jody would return to the YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford to take on the role of Settlement Specialist in YMCA Immigration and Settlement Services, and in 2017 she became a Coordinator and Manager in the same department, a position she still holds today.

What YMCA Core Values does Jody embody:
Caring, Inclusion, Responsibility

Hear what others are saying about Jody:

• “Jody’s openness to new ideas and attentiveness to everyone’s input create a positive work environment.”
• “She is a supportive and outstanding leader.”
• “She is consistently helpful, appreciative, and incredibly kind, always making each team member feel valued.”
• “Her dedication to our department and her genuine care for each individual does not go unnoticed.”
• “Her unwavering commitment to supporting newcomers and building a supportive environment for our team highlights her compassion and dedication to making a positive difference.”
• “Jody’s kindness and integrity sets an example that inspires us to do our best work every day.”
• “Her inclusive approach encourages team members to bring forth their unique ideas, making everyone feel heard and respected.”
• “She continuously strives to improve our programs, making sure they are accessible, relevant, and impactful.”
• “Through her leadership, she has created a team culture where everyone is motivated to deliver their best and go the extra mile to support our clients.”
• “Jody’s commitment to our mission is reflected in the positive experiences of every newcomer who benefits from our services.”
• “Thank you, Jody, for all your hard work and for the compassion you show every day.”