Youth Support Worker

Be the Spark that ignites the potential in people At our YMCA, we believe in the power of people. Every day, our dedicated employees and volunteers bring energy, positivity, and inclusivity to everything they do. They are the spark that ignites potential in others—helping individuals grow, thrive, and truly belong.

When people feel connected and supported, communities become stronger, more resilient, and full of life. That's the impact of people-powered change. Together, we create welcoming spaces where everyone is valued, differences are celebrated, and possibilities are endless. Be the spark. Shine bright. Help others shine too.

About the Role:

This position provides vulnerable youth, leading up to and at critical academic transition points, with the community supports and life skill development they need for educational attainment and future success. Program delivery includes, but is not limited to, the development of youth-centered plans, facilitation of workshops, supportive counseling, and the coordination of peer mentorship. The YSW uses an outreach model to meet youth within the community, at schools, local YMCA facilities or another appropriate site. The YSW is responsible for the effective planning, implementation, and evaluation of program services. The YSW carries out their duties in a professional manner and in accordance with all YMCA policies and procedures, standards of practice, health and safety standards, child protection standards and contractual, legal, and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities:

• Collects information to confirm eligibility and completes participant intake and/or assessment to inform ongoing participant supports to reach participant and funder outcomes.
• Develop and implement Individual Action Plans in collaboration with each youth on caseload and determine individualized direction that meet participants' needs.
• Develop and facilitate workshops as per guidelines and funder mandates.
• Performs case management as per guidelines and funder mandates.
• Consults and advocate with social workers, school administration, other professionals and family/natural supports when appropriate.
• Provide service coordination and navigation.
• Maintains knowledge of relevant services and community resources.
• Engages with schools, community agencies, and other organizations to maximize services and resources to participants.
• Collect and inputs data accurately and timely into designated systems.
• Work within defined program budgets.

Qualifications:

• Post secondary degree/diploma in Child and Youth Care Counselling, Education, Social Work, Recreation Management, or related field.
• Intermediate (Standard) First Aid, CPR-C, and WHMIS Certification.
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and Suicide Intervention Certification preferred.
• Able to obtain a Police Information Check with Vulnerable sector.
• 2+ years experience working with youth and diverse populations.
• Working knowledge of issues/practices related to the social determents of health, youth development, individual assessment, case management, group work, group facilitation, program planning and outcome evaluation.
• Working knowledge in culturally sensitive and trauma-informed practice, and strength-based approach.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends as needed for community events or meetings.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, databases and other technology.
• Annual registration in a professional organization as required by law.
• Valid driver's license and has a reliable vehicle.

Why work for the YMCA?

The YMCA of Northern Alberta is a charity that ignites the potential in people, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities. We are committed to helping our employees and volunteers reach their full potential and are recognized as a great place to work and volunteer. We offer meaningful opportunities to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the health of our communities.

Joining the Y means contributing to over 100 years of providing opportunities for people to shine Our Y serves tens of thousands of people each year through programs and services like health and fitness, licensed child care, day camps, mental health, employment and immigrant services, education and training, and services for youth, families and seniors.

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Inclusion has power, and we take strides to create a diverse, inclusive workplace where everyone can belong. Diverse teams unleash new ideas, and employees thrive in a culture that recognizes and appreciates the unique perspectives and backgrounds of others. Through our differences in how we think and act we can form innovative and effective teams and deliver organizational success.

If we can make the recruitment process more accessible for you, please let us know when we reach out about an opportunity so we can work with you to accommodate your needs.

In keeping with our commitment to safety and child protection, job offers are contingent on the successful completion of a Police Records Check. Prior to your first day and every three years thereafter, a Vulnerable Police Records Check is required.

The YMCA only considers applicants who are legally entitled to work in Canada. We thank all applicants for their interest, however, due to the volume of applications we receive, we can only contact candidates who are selected for an interview.