Youth and Young Adults Connections Specialist

**Position Summary**

Seabird Island is committed to empowering youth and young adults in our community through culturally informed and supportive programming. We are seeking a Youth and Young Adults Connections Specialist to join our team, focusing on fostering positive growth, recreation, and family connections for male youth and young adults who are considered high-risk.

Under the direction of the Youth and Young Adults Program Manager, the Youth and Young Adults Connections Specialist will develop and deliver tailored intervention and prevention programs specifically designed to address the unique challenges and needs faced by high-risk male youth and young adults. This role emphasizes building trust and rapport with male clients, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose, and creating a culturally safe and supportive environment where they can thrive.

**This program will operate four days a week in the afternoon/evening and one day on the weekend.**

**This is a term contract covering a leave with a start date of May 2025 and an end date of August 10th, 2026.**

**What you’ll do**

**Program Development and Delivery**
- Develop and implement culturally relevant programs focused on positive reinforcement, recreation, and wellness for male youth and young adults.
- Plan and lead structured group activities, including sports, outdoor recreation, team-building exercises, and wellness-focused workshops.
- Integrate First Nations cultural teachings and practices into programming, such as drumming, traditional storytelling, and other relevant activities.
- Organize life skills training sessions to promote healthy relationships, emotional regulation, and self-esteem development.
- Create safe, engaging spaces where participants feel supported, valued, and motivated.

**Individual Support and Mentorship**
- Provide one-on-one mentorship for participants to address individual needs, challenges, and goals.
- Develop personalized action plans for high-risk youth, focusing on behavioral improvement, wellness, and personal growth.
- Support participants in accessing additional resources, such as counseling services, employment programs, or academic assistance.
- Act as a positive role model by demonstrating healthy decision-making and behavior.

**Family and Community Engagement**
- Build strong, trusting relationships with participants' families to promote open communication and collaborative support.
- Facilitate family sessions to encourage improved connections, understanding, and engagement with the program.
- Coordinate outreach efforts to connect with youth who are not currently engaged in community programs.
- Collaborate with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community leaders to support cultural learning and engagement.

**Recreation and Wellness Activities**
- Promote physical and mental well-being through structured wellness activities such as mindfulness exercises, fitness challenges, and group discussions on healthy habits.
- Ensure all activities are inclusive, culturally respectful, and aligned with participants' interests and needs.

Administration and Reporting
- Maintain accurate and confidential program records, including attendance, progress reports, and incident documentation.
- Track and evaluate program outcomes, using feedback to improve services.
- Prepare reports for leadership outlining successes, challenges, and recommendations for future program development.
- Ensure program compliance with organizational policies, safety protocols, and funding requirements.

Collaboration and Professional Development
- Work closely with other program staff, such as the Youth Team, Education Department, and Health Services, to provide integrated support.
- Attend regular team meetings to share insights, address challenges, and plan upcoming initiatives
- Participate in professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in youth engagement and intervention.

**Other Duties**
- Additional responsibilities as needed to support the community and uphold our shared values.

**What you bring**

**Qualifications**:

- Diploma or Degree in social sciences, advocacy, community development, social work, or a related field. We also recognize and value cultural knowledge and experience gained through other forms of education and training, including teachings from Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
- Experience working with Indigenous communities and understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.
- Proven ability to engage and motivate high-risk individuals through positive reinforcement and mentorship.
- Demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate, and lead group activities and workshops.
- Strong facilitation, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- At least 3 years of relevant experience working within Indigenous communities, focusing on at risk youth and young adults.

**Cultural Competency**:

- Deep und