Youth Peer Support Worker – Part-Time

Edmonton Chamber of Voluntary Organizations; Fort Saskatchewan; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

A community organization in Fort Saskatchewan is seeking a part-time Youth Peer Support Worker. The role involves providing support to youth facing mental health and substance use challenges, co-facilitating groups, and assisting with program activities. Ideal candidates will possess a diploma in a related field and have personal lived experience. Competitive pay of $25/hour for 24-32 hours per week with flexible scheduling is offered.

Qualifications

• Lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges.
• Experience in peer support or community programming is an asset.
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed approaches.

Responsibilities

• Provide peer support sessions for youth and families.
• Co-facilitate support groups and workshops.
• Assist with program activities and events.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Peer support

Understanding of youth issues

Education

Diploma in health or social science

Peer Support training program

Job description

About The Bridge

The Bridge Wellness Hub for Youth – Kickstand Fort Saskatchewan is an inclusive, community-based space for youth ages 11–24. We provide a variety of health and wellness services including counselling, peer support, groups, programs, and drop-in activities. Youth are welcome whether they are seeking services or simply looking for a safe, supportive space to connect.

Vision: To lead the community in empowering youth as they strengthen their resiliency and overall wellness.

Mission: To foster a supportive, inclusive, and empowering environment where youth can thrive. We promote holistic well-being through accessible programs, resources, and community engagement—encouraging every young person to grow into their best selves.

Position Summary

The Youth Peer Support Worker provides both direct support to youth and their families, and helps ensure the hub runs smoothly day-to-day. This role combines peer-based support (drawing on lived experience of mental health or substance use challenges) with practical program and hub responsibilities. The Peer Support Worker will build strong, positive relationships with youth, families, and community partners, while supporting programming, outreach, and administrative tasks.

Key Responsibilities

Peer Support and Engagement

• Provide individual peer support sessions (in-person or virtually) for youth and/or family members.
• Co-facilitate and/or deliver support groups, workshops, and activities related to mental health, wellness, and recovery.
• Share lived experience in a safe, boundaried, and purposeful way that promotes hope and recovery.
• Support youth in accessing resources, programs, and community connections.
• Encourage social support networks by helping youth strengthen relationships with peers, family, and community.
• Advocate with youth experiencing barriers, stigma, or challenges related to mental health and substance use.

Hub and Program Support

• Greet visitors, answer phones, and orient youth and families to the space.
• Assist with program activities, events, and drop-in sessions.
• Prepare snacks and meals, support food bank and grocery pick-ups, and help with meal planning.
• Ensure the hub is welcoming and clean (light housekeeping after activities/meals).
• Manage social media posts, create flyers/pamphlets, and support communication and outreach.
• Coordinate scheduling with service providers, volunteers, practicum students, and contractors.
• Support enrollment and training of volunteers and practicum students.
• Occasionally manage the hub independently during evening hours.
• Participate in staff meetings, supervision, and Peer Support Community of Practice.

Administration and Accountability

• Handle basic administrative and office duties including expense tracking (petty cash, business/personal card).
• Maintain confidentiality and privacy in line with policies, legislation, and ethical standards.
• Uphold trauma-informed, harm reduction, strength-based, and person-centered practices.
• Engage in ongoing professional development and training opportunities.

Qualifications

Education and Training

• Diploma in health, social science, or related field is preferred; post-secondary students encouraged to apply.
• Completion of a recognized Peer Support training program (or willingness to complete).

Experience

• Lived experience with mental health and/or substance use challenges as a youth or caregiver, with personal recovery experience.
• Comfortable sharing lived experience and maintaining appropriate boundaries.
• Experience in peer support, community programming, group facilitation, or youth work is an asset.

Skills and Attributes

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (oral and written).
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Understanding of youth issues including trauma, addictions, and mental health.
• Familiarity with harm reduction, trauma-informed, and strength-based approaches.
• Reliable, organized, and able to manage multiple responsibilities.
• Comfort with technology, social media, and virtual platforms.
• Compassion, patience, and respect for diverse experiences and perspectives.

Other Requirements

• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel within Alberta.
• Vulnerable sector/criminal record check and child intervention check.

Compensation & Schedule

• Compensation: $25/hour
• Hours: 24- 32 hours/week
• Must be available to work within hub hours of operation:
  • Mondays: 11 am – 7 pm
  • Tuesdays: 11 am – 7 pm
  • Wednesdays: 1 pm – 8:30 pm
  • Thursdays: 1 pm – 8:30 pm

There is some flexibility in the schedule. Please let us know your availability for further information and screening.

On behalf of The Bridge – Kickstand Fort Saskatchewan, and as part of their HR Shared Services, the Edmonton Chamber of Voluntary Organizations (ECVO) is excited to be supporting the recruitment of this role. Please submit your resume and cover letter to: [e-mail] with the subject “Youth Peer Support Worker Application – Part-Time”.

We would like to thank all applicants for their interest in the position but only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

Tagged as: Social Services