Job Description

Reports to:

Program Coordinator

Rate of Pay

: $19.00/hour

Location:

Thorold, ON.

Work Schedule

January 14 - June 25, 2026 (4-6 hours per week)

Wednesdays & Thursday from 5:30 - 7:30 pm (2 hours)

Social Outings from 5:30 - 8:30 pm (3 hours)

The ideal candidate will be able to fill the appointment for both Wednesdays and Thursdays. We will consider a January - April contract.

Mandatory Training Information

Location:

Thorold, ON.

Date:

January 14th, 2026

Time

: 6:00- 8:00 pm

Position Summary

The

LD Student Social Child and Youth Worker

will work alongside the Program Instructor to support the Learning Disabilities Association of Niagara Region (LDANR)'s LD Student Social program. LD Student Social is a small-group program for students in grades 6-10 who are experiencing secondary characteristics associated with learning difficulties (i.e., low self-esteem, poor social and/or emotional regulation) due to a diagnosed, identified, or suspected learning disability. The weekly program sessions offer a safe and inclusive space for students with learning disabilities to meet others who share similar life experiences due to their learning disability. The goal of this program is to instill confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging among the participants while helping them to build coping and self-advocacy skills. Sessions incorporate a combination of discussion, instruction, and engaging games and activities in a small-group setting. Throughout the year, the program also includes monthly social outings, where staff supervise students in community-based settings that encourage social skill development and connection.

Key Responsibilities

Assist the Program Instructor to deliver the program sessions; Assist the Program Instructor to implement fun, interactive and engaging activities for the participants which align with the goals of the program; Provide mental health and wellbeing support to participants, where needed; Provide a positive environment where participants feel comfortable and safe; Ensure a smooth and timely transition between activities; Address parent/guardian questions and concerns; Share important updates from the Program Coordinator with parents/guardians; Provide observation notes and parent/guardian feedback to the Program Coordinator; Regulate the pick-up and drop-off of participants, ensuring only authorized adults pick-up the participants; Track and monitor participant, volunteer and visitor attendance; Update the Program Coordinator about any absences or attendance issues; Unlock and lock the program site before and after each session, if required; Ensure the health and safety of program participants; Complete Incident and Accident Report Forms, when necessary; Follow, and encouraging others on-site, to follow all LDANR policies and procedures; Other duties as assigned by the Program Coordinator.

Mandatory Activities

Attend program training and orientation; Report to the Program Coordinator on a weekly basis with feedback and timesheet;

Qualifications

Eligible candidates have earned, or are completing, a post-secondary degree/diploma in Child and Youth Studies, Social Work, or related field. Other qualifications include:

Police Vulnerable Sector Clearance (mandatory - within one year) First Aid and CPR Certification (mandatory - current) Completion of Accessibility of Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Training module (mandatory- completed online upon onboarding) Completion of Ministry of Labour Worker Health and Safety Awareness Training module (mandatory- completed online upon onboarding) Completion of WHMIS training (mandatory - completed online upon onboarding) Driver's license and vehicle (or a reliable means of transportation to and from program)

Skills/Knowledge

Previous knowledge and experience working with individuals with learning disabilities and AD(H)D; Experience supporting children and their learning needs; Experience managing groups of children; Experience designing and implementing learning activities; Ability to work independently and as part of a team; Reliability, organization, assertiveness, responsibility and professionalism; Ability to meet deadlines within a specified timeframe.

Benefits

Successful candidates will develop skills and experience related to:

Understanding the functions and roles of a non-profit organization; Identifying and utilizing community resources; Supporting the unique needs of students with learning difficulties; Increased knowledge of learning disabilities.

Support Provided

Training for this position will be provided prior to the program start date. In addition, the Program Coordinator is available on an ongoing basis to answer questions and provide assistance as needed. Program staff will have access to our resource library/center for resources, tools, games, etc. that will be useful for program sessions.

Application Procedure

Click Here to Submit a Program Staff Application

As part of the application, you will be asked to submit references as well as a copy of your resume and cover letter. Please have these handy so that you can easily upload them into the application.

Any inquiries regarding this opportunity can be sent to Ciara Pember, Program Coordinator

cpember@LDANiagara.org

Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

All applicants are thanked for their interest however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Applications will continue to be accepted until all positions are filled.

Please note, by providing the LDANR with the names and emails of your references you understand that you are granting the LDANR permission to contact the listed individuals. Prior to applying to the position, please ensure the reference is aware that they may be contacted.

The LDANR is committed to our Accessibility and Accommodation policy. We welcome and encourage applications from individuals with disabilities. Candidates taking part in all aspects of the recruitment and selection process are encouraged to communicate needs for accommodation and we will partner with you to meet those needs.

Job Type: Seasonal
Contract length: 16 weeks

Pay: $19.00 per hour

Work Location: In person