Indigenous Child and Youth Worker

White Owl Native Ancesty Association; Kitchener; On-site; CAD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established agency dedicated to Indigenous well-being is seeking a compassionate Child and Youth Worker. This role focuses on providing mentorship and culturally relevant support to Indigenous youth, fostering their personal development and resilience. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, strong communication skills, and a commitment to creating inclusive environments. Join a team dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of Indigenous children and youth in the Waterloo Region, and help shape a brighter future for the community.

Qualifications

• Must be of First Nations, Métis, or Inuit descent with documented community ties.
• Minimum two years of related work experience within Indigenous organizations.
• Demonstrated cultural leadership experience and community engagement.

Responsibilities

• Provide mentorship and support to Indigenous children and youth in various settings.
• Integrate traditional Indigenous teachings into programs and activities.
• Collaborate with families and community stakeholders for holistic support.

Skills

Culturally relevant mentorship

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Culturally sensitive teaching

Emotional support

Education

Diploma or degree in Child and Youth Care

Non-Violent Crisis Intervention certification

First Aid and CPR Level C certification

Tools

Microsoft Office 365

SharePoint

Zoom

Teams

Job description

White Owl Native Ancesty Association Kitchener, Ontario, Canada

3 weeks ago Be among the first 25 applicants

About White Owl Native Ancestry Association

White Owl Native Ancestry Association (WONAA) is an urban Indigenous community-based agency dedicated to culturally safe, wholistic practices and education, supporting well-being across generations. Through our adaptive approaches, we are fostering a place of healing and belonging in Waterloo Region.

Job Summary

The Child and Youth Worker will provide direct support and mentorship to Indigenous children and youth, ensuring they have access to culturally relevant programs, services, and resources. This role involves working with individuals and groups to promote social, emotional, and psychological well-being while integrating traditional Indigenous teachings and cultural practices into everyday activities. The Child and Youth Worker will also collaborate with community stakeholders, families, and educators to help young people achieve their personal goals and reach their full potential. A deep understanding for and commitment to Indigenous cultures, values, and traditions. The successful candidate will be: empathetic, patient, and compassionate, with a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of Indigenous children and youth, be culturally competent and committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all children and youth, and have strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically and creatively when addressing challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one and group support to Indigenous children and youth in a variety of settings, including community centers, schools, and after-school programs.
• Foster positive relationships with youth, helping them build trust, resilience, and self-esteem.
• Integrate culturally relevant teachings and practices into programming, including traditional Indigenous ways of knowing, ceremonies, and languages.
• Support youth with academic, emotional, and social challenges, providing mentorship and guidance.
• Develop and facilitate programs and activities that promote personal development, life skills, and community involvement.
• Work collaboratively with families, community members, service providers and the WONAA Elder-in-Residence to ensure holistic support for children and youth.
• Proficiency in identifying and completing referrals as appropriate.
• Advocate for the rights and needs of Indigenous children and youth, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and opportunities.
• Maintain confidential records, case notes, and reports in compliance with organizational policies and regulations.
• Attend and participate in team meetings, training sessions, and community events.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Cultural Lived Experience:

• Must be a First Nations, Métis, or Inuit decent with an ability to provide documentation to verify community/communities of origin.
• Must have demonstrated cultural leadership experience that can be validated by community and/or community members.
• Must have lived experience as a First Nations, Métis or Inuit person including an ability to identify carried Indigenous world views, culture(s) and values.
• Must be able to demonstrate strong ties to First Nations, Métis and/or Inuit communities, societies, and/or lodges.
• Demonstrated positive and relationality-centered community participation and engagement within the local Waterloo Region Indigenous community is an asset.

Education/Certification:

Diploma or degree in Child and Youth Care, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field.

Have completed Non-Violent Crisis Intervention/Mental Health First Aid certification.

First Aid and CPR Level C certification.

Experience:

Minimum two years of related work experience within an Indigenous organization, Indigenous community, or an Indigenous-focused position/portfolio within a non-Indigenous organization.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Deep knowledge and connection to Indigenous cultural practices, traditions, and languages (specific to the community the incumbent represents).
• Strong communication skills to effectively engage with diverse groups of people.
• Ability to provide compassionate mentorship, counseling, and emotional support.
• Experience and training in culturally sensitive teaching, facilitation, and conflict resolution.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and organizations.
• Familiarity with the specific needs and challenges faced by Indigenous communities or students in the institution.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office 365, virtual meeting platforms such as Teams and Zoom, digital filing system-SharePoint an asset.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their qualifications and experience to [e-mail] by Friday, May 9, 2025 at 4:30 PM EST.

We thank all interested applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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