Job Description

Job Title:

Children and Youth Worker

Location:

Maplegate House for Women

Reports To:

Program Supervisor

Position Type:

One Year Internship

Position Summary:

The

Children and Youth Worker

at

Maplegate House for Women

plays a critical role in supporting the emotional, developmental, and practical needs of children and youth living in the shelter. This position is responsible for planning, coordinating, and facilitating age-appropriate programs, while also supporting children and youth who are coping with crisis, trauma, and transitions.

The role also involves assisting families as they adjust to shelter life- helping mothers navigate parenting challenges in a communal setting and providing tools that promote family stability and healing.

Key Responsibilities:

Child and Youth Programming:

Develop and deliver engaging, trauma-informed programs and activities for children and youth of all ages. Create a safe and inclusive environment that fosters play, creativity, learning, and emotional expression. Organize recreational, educational, and therapeutic group activities on a regular schedule.

Crisis and Emotional Support:

Provide one-on-one support to children and youth experiencing emotional or behavioral challenges due to trauma, abuse, or displacement. Support children and youth through crisis situations using a trauma-informed and child-centered approach. Collaborate with mothers and guardians to identify the specific needs of each child.

Transition and Settlement Support:

Welcome and assist children and youth as they transition into the shelter environment. Support families in adjusting to communal living and shelter routines. Help create a structured and predictable environment to support emotional safety and regulation.

Family and Parent Support:

Work collaboratively with mothers and caregivers to support positive parenting and family routines. Provide resources, referrals, and guidance related to parenting, child development, and community supports. Participate in family meetings and case planning sessions where appropriate.

Collaboration and Advocacy:

Liaise with external agencies such as schools, child protection services, and mental health providers. Advocate for the needs and rights of children and youth in both internal and external settings. Work closely with the broader shelter team to ensure continuity of care for families.

Administrative Duties:

Maintain accurate records and case notes for all interactions with children and youth. Track participation in programs and report on outcomes and client progress. Ensure that all services are delivered in alignment with Maplegate House's policies, confidentiality standards, and child protection regulations.

Qualifications:

New graduates in the areas of Child and Youth Work, Social Services, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, or a related field. Knowledge of trauma-informed care, child development, and family systems. Experience supporting children who have experienced violence, trauma, or disruption. Familiarity with community resources for children, youth, and families. Strong communication, de-escalation, and conflict resolution skills. Current First Aid/CPR and vulnerable sector police check (or willingness to obtain). Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.

Core Competencies:

Empathy and Compassion Trauma-Informed Practice Child-Centered Approach Flexibility and Creativity Teamwork and Collaboration Strong Communication Skills Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity

Working Conditions:

Shelter environment with exposure to individuals in crisis. Physically active role, including setting up activities and engaging with children of all ages. May include evening and weekend programming.

To Apply:

Please send your resume and cover letter to program.supervisor@elwg.ca with the subject line: Children and Youth Worker Application - [Your Name]

Application Deadline:

October 14, 2025

Child and Youth Worker Internship position is funded by Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation.

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract, Internship / Co-op
Contract length: 12 months

Pay: $19.48-$22.60 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Work Location: In person