Job Description

Program Overview

The Community Access Program (CAP) is a pre-employment, life skills, and community engagement program for youth ages 16-24 who live with disabilities. CAP is grounded in the Independent Living Philosophy and aligned with Nova Scotia's Remedy transformation work, supporting youth to build autonomy, self-confidence, and pathways to employment and meaningful community participation.

The Program Facilitator plays a key role in delivering workshops, supporting participants, and creating an engaging, rights-affirming, and inclusive learning environment.

Position Summary

The Program Facilitator is responsible for coordinating, delivering, and evaluating CAP workshops and activities across the program's three pillars:

Career Development and Employability Life, Social, and Independent Living Skills Recreation and Community Inclusion
The Facilitator supports youth to build confidence, learn new skills, explore employment opportunities, and strengthen their sense of belonging--while honouring choice, autonomy, and dignity of risk. This role requires a strong understanding of disability, Independent Living values, person-directed practices, and the evolving service landscape under the Remedy in Nova Scotia.

Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Delivery

Facilitate interactive workshops in career development, employability, life skills, and Independent Living philosophy. Deliver sessions related to disability rights, advocacy, self-determination, and the social model of disability. Support participants in developing resumes, cover letters, job search strategies, and interview skills. Coordinate and supervise weekly recreation outings and community-based activities. Support participants with identifying volunteer placements and liaise with community partners. Encourage participant leadership, decision-making, and autonomy throughout the program.

Participant Support & Engagement

Build positive, trusting relationships with youth participants. Provide one-on-one support and coaching related to goals, self-esteem, communication, and community participation. Promote a safe, inclusive, and rights-affirming environment that reflects trauma-informed and person-directed practices. Support participants with understanding their rights to choice, control, and dignity of risk. Monitor participant progress and address barriers in collaboration with ILNS staff and Nova Scotia Works partners.

Program Coordination

Assist with the planning and scheduling of program activities, workshops, and community outings. Communicate regularly with participants, families, partner agencies, and employers as appropriate. Maintain accurate attendance, progress notes, and program documentation. Participate in intake and assessment processes as required. Coordinate logistics for volunteer placements, employment exposures, and guest speakers.

Evaluation & Reporting

Collect and document program outcomes aligned with DSP Remedy goals. Administer participant evaluations, pre/post assessments, and satisfaction surveys. Provide regular updates to the Manager of Community Programs. Contribute to continuous quality improvement of CAP curriculum and delivery.

QualificationsEducation & Experience

Diploma or degree in Social Services, Community Development, Disability Studies, Youth Work, Adult Education, or related field. Minimum 2 years' experience working with youth or persons with disabilities in group or community settings. Experience delivering workshops, facilitating groups, or teaching is an asset. Knowledge of the Independent Living Movement, disability rights, and the Remedy transformation in Nova Scotia is preferred.

Skills & Competencies

Strong facilitation and group leadership skills. Understanding of person-directed practices, autonomy, and dignity of risk. Ability to build rapport and support youth with diverse strengths and needs. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving abilities. Ability to manage groups in community settings and adapt to various learning styles. Excellent organizational and time-management skills. Comfort using a trauma-informed, rights-based approach. Ability to work collaboratively with community partners, employers, and service providers.

Additional Requirements

Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation considered an asset. Ability to obtain a Vulnerable Sector Check and Child Abuse Registry Check. First Aid/CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).
elp transform lives while advancing your career in social impact work.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $27.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 35 per week

Work Location: In person

Expected start date: 2026-01-05