Grey County Attracting Newcomers

Grey County is getting set to launch a 15-month pilot called “New to Grey” to attract and retain newcomers to the community. Funding provided by the Government of Ontario has allowed Grey County to recruit an outreach coordinator. This position will grow Grey County’s profile as a welcoming community, support newcomers, and assist businesses, service providers and schools with the resources and networks needed to attract and more importantly retain newcomers.

“Year after year we continue to hear one of, if not the biggest, challenge our businesses face is finding skilled, qualified workers,” said Grey County Warden Alan Barfoot. “Attracting newcomers to Canada is one strategy that can help expand and diversify our workforce, grow our communities and help fill our schools.”

The outreach coordinator will have many responsibilities including: developing a newcomer welcoming network, coordinating events and workshops throughout the County, creating resources and toolkits for newcomers, communities and employers, presenting and representing Grey County at events and much more.

Jacinda Rudolph will start her position as outreach coordinator on Monday, October 30. Rudolph has an Honours BA in International Development Studies and spent six years working for the Immigrant Settlement Association of Nova Scotia. For the past two years, Jacinda has served as the Executive Director of LaunchPad Youth Activity and Technology Centre in Hanover. She will remain the Executive Director part time until end of December to allow for a smooth transition.

“I have always been passionate about working alongside newcomers as they bring innovation and diversity to local communities.  We are fortunate in that we already have an established network of dedicated individuals who will compliment this project and propel it forward,” said Rudolph.  “Grey County has some exceptional leaders and great potential in creating an attractive and welcoming region for newcomers.”

Grey County is very excited to have this opportunity to grow and strengthen our community. This pilot would not be possible without support from the Province of Ontario.

“Newcomers are a vital and growing part of Ontario`s communities.  They contribute to the social, economic and cultural enrichment of our province,” said Laura Albanese, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration. “Grey County is investing in a bright future by supporting programs to help engage, support and integrate newcomers into our province so that they can thrive and excel.”

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For media inquiries contact Rob Hatten, Communications Manager, at rob.hatten [at] grey.ca (rob[dot]hatten[at]grey[dot]ca) or call 519-372-0219 ext. 1235, or 519-373-1592.