Reports to:               Administrative Manager

Term:                         Full Time, 40 Hours Per Week

Contract:                  6-month contract, Starting in April

Hours:                       40 hours per week, flexibility is required.

Some weekends and evenings

Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg provides wholistic programs and service for Indigenous children, youth, families and community that are rooted in culture and language. Our vision: Indigeneity: Strong Cultural Identity and Healthy Families.

McQuesten Urban Farm is an innovative neighbourhood development initiative that provides a space where people can come together to grow, cook, share and advocate for good food. 

The Community Engager will work with children, families, teachers and students of local elementary schools to offer enriching farm programming and educational workshops. They will also be facilitating outreach and information presentations to enhance volunteer recruitment, co-op and internship opportunities.

Responsibilities

  • Work with teachers, students from local elementary schools to lead Farm programming and Educational Workshops
  • Develop and deliver themed child and youth programs (curriculum linked, food & nutrition, arts & craft, etc.)
  • Work with community members, organizations, business community, etc. to create partnerships (fundraising & in-kind support), recruit volunteers and enhance program participation
  • Work with a Farm team to develop the process and design of the project.
  • Coordinate trainings to support the key aspects of the project such as off-site visits, group decision making/conflict resolution, customer service, community kitchen orientation, and Volunteer Management 
  • Support animation of the farm and greenhouse spaces.
  • Support the physical propagation and production of food, medicinal and ornamental (pollinator friendly) crops according to organic practices and standards
  • Organizing and delivering workshops, outreach and information presentations.
  • Support volunteer recruitment, such as co-op student and internship applications, training and management for future sustainability of the project.
  • Complete project related administrative duties and evaluations, including the development of administrative processes and procedures for the project at large.
  • Participate and support development of food security neighbourhood networks and community initiatives.

Working Conditions

  • Will work both indoors and outdoors and may be exposed to various weather conditions.
  • Use machinery and various tools
  • Light to moderate physical demand which may include to sit, stand, kneel, stoop, reach with hands and arms and lift.
  • Interacts with children, family members, staff, visitors and local organizations.
  • Ability to attend and conduct presentations.
  • Manual dexterity is required to use desktop computer and peripherals.

Qualifications

  • Minimum 5 years’ experience working with children, families, educational setting.
  • Minimum 3 years’ experience working food project and/or neighbourhood-based organizing.
  • Experience in low income, diverse neighbourhoods.
  • Experience in food growing an asset, not necessary.
  • Experience in leading workshops, and presentations
  • Strong social media experience, Facebook and twitter platforms.
  • Knowledge of and experience working with people of Hamilton’s diverse communities.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to work both alone and as part of a team.
  • Proficiency in Excel, Word and database management.
  • Some evenings and weekends are required.
  • Second-language an asset.
  • Must have a clear Vulnerable Sector Screen.
  • Must have a valid First Aid/CPR certification.
  • Food Handler’s Certificate
  • Ability to lift, push, and pull heavy items over 50 lbs.

Preference for Indigenous Applicants

In alignment with Section 24 of the Ontario Human Rights Code, preference will be given to applicants who identify as members of an Indigenous community (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples). Candidates from these groups are encouraged to self-identify in their cover letter.

To Apply

Please submit your resume, cover letter to [email protected]. Be sure to highlight relevant experience and why you are passionate about supporting our mission.