Youth Worker

For over 30 years BGC Cochrane & Area has supported children, youth and families in Cochrane and area through Out of School Care (K-6), Summer Camps, Youth programs, Youth Outreach services, Family Day Home Agency and community partnerships. Our mission is to provide a safe, supportive place where children and youth can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and skills for life.

Reporting to the Manager of Youth Programs, the Youth Worker is an essential part of the Youth Program delivery team. They will work together with other Youth Workers & the Youth Outreach team as well as independently to provide quality, prevention-based programs aimed at youth 12 to 17 years old and foster friendships.

The Youth Team has a strong commitment to delivering programs inclusive of LGBTQ2S+ as well as those facing life challenges with bullying, homelessness, mental health disorders as well as Indigenous youth. The Youth Worker will provide a variety of opportunities for youth of all backgrounds and socio-economic status (in schools and at the Club) that ensure a respectful and safe environment for youth. The Youth Worker participates in a wide range of programs focused on, leadership, friendships, relationship building, experiencing and learning new skills.

Programs and services are based on community needs across Western Rocky View County and require flexible hours that include evening and weekend work. Our team at the BGCCA is professional, skilled and dedicated. Our priorities are the safety, well-being and inclusion of children and youth.

**Responsibilities**
- Act as a Youth Advocate, fostering Youth Leadership and Development, at the local level
- Seek opportunities to engage with youth and promote youth voice and youth issues in Cochrane, Western Rocky View County and Morley communities
- Develop creative ways to attract youth from Bearspaw, Bragg Creek, Springbank and Westbrook and engage them in Club programs and activities
- Build and foster relationships with appropriate stakeholders and work collaboratively with other youth service providers in the community
- Plan and deliver the approved program suite as well as specialised programs to groups and individuals as needed
- Coach youth through introductory cooking techniques, basic kitchen functions, how to make healthy ingredient selections, read a recipe and cook from scratch Through this program, youth gain confidence in self and abilities, communication, teamwork, relationship building and independence/responsibility.
- Plan and deliver Junior Chef (Kid Food Nation, National BGC program)
- Plan and deliver youth Leaders in Training program over the summer
- As a part of the Youth Team, coordinate special events such as Youth Day, Chess Tournament and themed parties
- Support the delivery of the Teen Drop-In at The Club, marketed as a barrier-free and inclusive-to-all space and supervise youth in our fun and informal space.
- Be active and innovative on social media platforms to ensure program messages reach a targeted audience
- Evaluate programs and produce reports as required including qualitative and quantitative outputs and outcomes
- Participate in organizational events and fundraising activities
- Upholding the Mission and Core Values of the Boys and Girls Club; Belonging, Respect, Encouragement, Working Together and Speaking Out

**Skills & Qualifications**
- Degree or Diploma in the Human or Social Services field, or equivalent work experience
- Knowledge of youth culture and current youth issues
- Experience working with youth (12+) in a variety of settings and across cultures, and with Indigenous youth in particular, is an asset
- Demonstrated passion and commitment to youth engagement and youth culture
- Flexibility to work in a structured and non-structured program setting
- Intuitive relationship-building and outstanding communication skills
- Strong ability to work independently and in a team setting
- Strong organizational skills and comfort working in a dynamic, evolving setting
- Excellent judgment and decision-making ability
- Enjoy being in the kitchen and comfortable with basic food preparation and cooking techniques
- Must have reliable personal vehicle and be able to provide clean driver’s abstract
- Current standard first aid certification is required in this role

BGCCA values diversity and is committed to attracting, engaging and developing a diverse and inclusive workforce. We offer flexibility, a professional and engaging team atmosphere and a competitive benefit package.

**Job Types**: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: From $40,000.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
- Company events
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site childcare
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- Vision care
- Wellness program

Work Location: In person

Expected start date: 2025-08-18