Youth Diversion 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:

YMCA of Northern Alberta seeks a motivated Youth Diversion Worker to provide direct service delivery to youth ages 12-17 who are experiencing multiple risk factors in their lives. The Youth Diversion Worker is responsible for positive relationship building, effective caseload management, supportive counselling, and facilitation of educational workshops to program participants who have had interactions with law enforcement. The program is intended to divert youth away from the criminal justice system and help them successfully transition to adulthood through a client-centred approach. At all times, this individual will demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills with youth who are experiencing barriers or risk factors in their lives.

Responsibilities:

• Complete participant intake and assessment to inform ongoing supports to reach participant and funder outcomes.  
• One-to-One Support with youth.
• Connecting with youth's professional and natural supports.
• 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.
• Performs case management as per guidelines and funder mandates.  
• Ensure timely, effective communication with program partners.

Qualifications: 

• University Degree in Human Services or related education.
• 2+ years experience working with youth and diverse populations.
• Standard First Aid and CPR-C, Intervention Record Check, Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector
• Valid driver's license, clear driver's abstract, and access to a reliable vehicle.
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and Suicide Intervention Certification preferred.
• 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.

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.