Youth Support Worker - Youth Education Support Program

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 is seeking a motivated individual that will provide effective program delivery of YMCA Youth Education Support Program to youth in grades 11, 12 and in first year post-secondary education. The YMCA is committed to creating a representative workforce to best suit the needs of the communities we serve; therefore, priority will be given to candidates with an Indigenous lens and worldview, including lived experience. These factors best equip the person in this role to meet the needs of their community.

In the role of Youth Support Worker (YSW) you will provide two main pillars of support; holistic academic support, which includes specific educational attainment goals, and as well as social, emotional support and community support that will provide wrap-around supports to improve, well-being, a sense of belonging and academic motivations. Through the delivery of one-to-one individualized support, workshops, vocational tours, tutoring and mentorship you will ensure the barriers youth have to accessing post-secondary is reduced. In this role, you will grow your planning, implementation, and program evaluation skills with the support of experienced leaders.

A willingness to work a flexible schedule is required as shifts will vary and may include evenings and/or weekends. This role is classified as a full-time position and is eligible for benefits. Your leader is invested in your success and will be providing support for you in person and remotely. As you are an established member of this national team your will actively work toward building a trusting and communicative relationship with each other.

Please note the current funding timeline of this position is until March 31, 2027 , however, it is anticipated that this funding will be extended.

Responsibilities:

• Ensures a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for participants.


• Collects information to confirm eligibility and completes participant intake and/or assessment to inform ongoing participant supports to reach participant and funder outcomes. 


• Designs, implements, and evaluates youth-centered individual action plans, in-person & virtual services and workshops as per guidelines and funder mandates.


• Performs case management as per guidelines and funder mandates.


• Consults with school administration, other professionals, and family & natural supports when appropriate.


• Coordinates peer mentorships opportunities and relationships.


• Maintains knowledge of relevant services and community resources.


• Engages with schools, community agencies, and other organizations to maximize services and resources to participants.


• Excellent organizational, time management skills, communication, interpersonal, and team skills.


• Adheres to all Risk Management and Occupational Health and Safety requirements including Work Alone Policy and Procedures and the Children, Youth and Vulnerable Adults Protection Policies and Procedures.


• Inputs data accurately and timely into program designated database systems. 


• Work within defined program budgets.


• Maintain accurate participant files in accordance with funder and YMCA guidelines. 


• Collect demographic, output, and outcome data for evaluation purposes and to inform and contribute to the development of funder and YMCA reports.

Qualifications:

• Post secondary degree/diploma in Child and Youth Care Counselling, Education, Social Work, Recreation Management, or related field.


• 2 years of experience working directly with vulnerable youth.


• Previous experience with client intake and assessment, case management, and workshop facilitation are assets. Training will be provided.


• Experience within a team environment and working remotely.


• Standard First Aid & CPR-C and able to obtain a Police Information Check and Vulnerable sector.


• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, Motivational Interviewing, Suicide Intervention Certification preferred


• Valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle is highly recommended.


• 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. Along with culturally sensitive and trauma-informed practices, 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.