Job Description

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

Youth Support Worker, Justice

with deep understanding and lived experience within Black Canadian communities to design and deliver culturally responsive programming that meets the unique needs of participants. This position supports our commitment to equity and community-centered programming and requires the successful candidate to have demonstrated connection to Black Canadian communities to effectively support and empower participants involved in the justice system.



The successful candidate will build strong, supportive relationships, manage a caseload, and deliver one-on-one guidance and workshops that help participants strengthen life skills and education as they reintegrate from detention or institutional settings, navigate probation, the justice transition process, or relocate for personal safety.



This is a full-time salaried contract position up to March 31, 2027, with the possibility of extension.

Responsibilities:

Accept referrals and complete youth intakes and assessment. Provide one-on-one guidance and supportive counselling Connect with youth's natural and professional supports. Create and monitor meaningful action plans that help youth reach their goals Facilitate workshops and group life-skill sessions Work closely with community partners, families, and natural supports Coordinate services and help youth navigate resources. Transport participants as required using your personal vehicle. Maintain clear case notes, statistics and program documentation Communicate with program partners and uphold YMCA values.

Qualifications:

Degree in Human Services or related discipline, such as Sociology, Criminology, Corrections, Psychology, Social Work. Working knowledge of issues/practices related to the social determinants of health, the Transtheoretical Model of Change, youth development, individual assessment, case management, group work, group facilitation, program planning, and outcome evaluation among black youths. Working knowledge of the Youth Criminal Justice Act Standard First Aid and CPR-C, Intervention Record Check, Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector A valid driver's license, clean abstract, and reliable vehicle. A minimum of 2 years working with youth from diverse backgrounds; experience with Black Canadian communities is highly desirable. Working knowledge of trauma-informed practice and culturally responsive approaches, supportive counselling skills, and motivational interviewing. Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends Strong communication and technology skills (eg. working with Microsoft Office and databases).

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.