Peer Mentor – Youth Dance & Wellness Program

VWAT Family Services; Toronto; On-site; CAD 3,000; Part time

Job summary

VWAT Family Services seeks three Peer Mentors for a part-time position in a dance-based program for newcomer youth. Mentors will help create a supportive environment while promoting emotional development and engagement through activities. Ideal candidates are compassionate, have strong communication skills, and are eager to foster inclusive spaces.

Qualifications

• Aged 18–24, with lived experience as a newcomer or racialized youth being an asset.
• Comfortable discussing emotions and mental health respectfully.
• Experience in leadership or working with youth is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Co-facilitate weekly check-in circles with reflective activities.
• Model communication, empathy, and inclusive behavior.
• Assist with dinner setup, serving, and clean-up.

Skills

Communication

Empathy

Open-mindedness

Leadership

Job description

Position Title: Peer Mentor
Available Positions: 3
Reports to: Program Coordinator
Type: Part-time, stipend-based (approx. 3 hours/week during program duration)
Stipend: $62.50/session
Duration: 40 weeks
Location: In-person at VWAT Family Services, 1756 St. Clair Ave W, Toronto
Weekly Schedule: Sessions take place Thursday evenings
Additional Requirement: Successful candidates must provide a valid Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS) before the start date.
Program Description:
Rhythm & Connection is a dance-based social-emotional learning program for racialized newcomer youth who may be experiencing social isolation, difficulty expressing emotions, or a lack of belonging. Rooted in the belief that movement can unlock both communication and healing, the program equips youth with tools to manage emotions, build relationships, and develop a stronger sense of identity and belonging.The program uses dance not only as a creative outlet but as a structured method to teach life skills, emotional regulation strategies, and promote mental and physical well-being.
Led by a skilled dance instructor and supported by three trained peer mentors, the program blends physical activity with intentional emotional development. Dance becomes a means of practicing impulse control, teamwork, body awareness, and etiquette. Weekly check-in circles—held after each dance session—provide space for youth to reflect, share, and build emotional language with guidance from caring adults and relatable near-peer mentors.
Peer mentors participate fully in all components, modeling vulnerability, communication, and positive peer interaction. Trained in mental health literacy and group facilitation, they act as bridges between participants and adult staff—deepening youth engagement and connection.
This is not simply a dance class—it is a space where newcomer youth can safely explore who they are, where they belong, and how to move through the world with confidence and community. Approximately 20 youth participants will attend each session. We are committed to creating a welcoming, safe, and affirming space for all youth, including 2SLGBTQ+ youth and those with intersectional identities.
Time Commitment:
● Attend one 2.5-hour weekly session on Thursday evenings (plus 30 minutes prep and 30 minutes debrief each week)
● Support with dinner setup, serving, and clean-up as part of the evening flow
● Monthly team check-ins or mentor support meetings (approx. 1 hour/month)
● Mandatory pre-program training in mid-July (approx. 8 hours, held on a weekend)
● No sessions during holidays or school breaks
Sample Weekly Structure:
● 15-30 min: Arrive early, help set up, check in with instructor and team
● 60 min: Dance and movement activities with youth participants
● 60 min: Help serve and share a provided dinner, followed by a peer-led closing circle with check-ins and reflection activities
● 15–30 min: Debrief with team, flag any issues, plan for next week
Key Responsibilities:
● Participate in 40 weekly sessions and co-facilitate weekly check-in circles with reflective activities, social games, and emotional check-ins
● Support youth engagement by modeling communication, empathy, and inclusive behavior
● Help create a safe, welcoming space and flag concerns to staff as needed
● Serve as a bridge between youth and adult staff by offering peer-based support
● Participate in training related to youth mental health, trauma-informed practices, and wellness promotion
● Attend monthly team check-ins or mentor support meetings
● Assist with dinner setup, serving, and clean-up as part of creating a community space
● Encourage youth to engage, build confidence and take ownership of their growth
Qualifications:
● Aged 18–24; lived experience as a newcomer or racialized youth is an asset
● Passionate about supporting younger youth and fostering inclusive spaces
● Strong interpersonal and communication skills; compassionate, reliable, and open-minded
● Comfortable discussing emotions and mental health in a respectful, age-appropriate way
● Experience or interest in dance, movement, or creative expression (formal training not required)
● Able to balance being a peer and a role model
● Reliable and punctual, with a strong sense of commitment to the full program schedule
● Experience in leadership, mentorship, or working with youth (volunteer or paid) is an asset
● Open to feedback and self-reflection
● Willingness to learn, participate in training, and grow with the team
● Ability to speak Vietnamese or another Southeast Asian language is an asset
How to Apply:
Please submit your resume and a cover letter introducing yourself and why you’re interested in this role to [e-mail]. Application Deadline: Sunday, July 13, 2025 at 11:59 PM