Title: Indigenous Youth Outreach Worker

Reports to: Indigenous Youth Hub Team Lead

Location: Hamilton, ON

Term: FULL-TIME, contract ending March 31, 2026; with possibility of renewal.

Hours: 40 hours per week, afternoon/evening hours and some weekend flexibility

Deadline: Open until filled

Job Summary:

The Indigenous Youth Outreach Worker is responsible for engaging with and providing support to Indigenous youth facing high-risk situations. This role involves building trusting relationships, addressing immediate needs, and connecting youth with resources and services that promote positive outcomes. The Outreach Worker will collaborate with community partners, utilize cultural competence, and apply trauma-informed approaches to empower and guide Indigenous high-risk youth toward a path of resilience and well-being.

Key Responsibilities:

Outreach and Engagement:

  • Conduct outreach to identify and connect with Indigenous youth facing high-risk situations, such as substance abuse, homelessness, mental health challenges, or involvement with the justice system.
  • Build trusting relationships with youth through culturally sensitive and trauma-informed approaches.

Cultural Program Development and Implementation:

  • Develop, plan, and implement culturally relevant programs and initiatives that celebrate and preserve Indigenous traditions.
  • Ensure that programs reflect the diversity of Indigenous cultures and address the unique challenges faced by Indigenous youth.
  • Collaborate with Elders and cultural advisors to incorporate traditional knowledge and practices into program design.

Assessment and Individualized Planning:

  • Collaborate with youth and services providers to develop personalized plans that address immediate concerns and set long-term goals.

Resource Connection:

  • Connect youth with appropriate resources and services, including mental health support, housing assistance, education, employment, and cultural programs.
  • Advocate on behalf of youth to ensure access to relevant services and opportunities.

Cultural Competence:

  • Integrate Indigenous cultural practices and perspectives into outreach and support activities.
  • Collaborate with community leaders, elders, and organizations to enhance cultural relevance in service provision.

Crisis Intervention:

  • Provide immediate crisis intervention and support to youth facing urgent situations.
  • Work collaboratively with emergency services, if necessary, to ensure the safety and well-being of the youth.

Advocacy and Empowerment:

  • Advocate for the rights and needs of Indigenous high-risk youth within various systems, including the legal, educational, and healthcare systems.
  • Empower youth by fostering a sense of agency and resilience.

Documentation and Reporting:

  • Maintain accurate and confidential records of all interactions and interventions.
  • Prepare regular reports for internal and external stakeholders, highlighting key achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement.

Qualifications and Skills:

  • Post-Secondary diploma &/or degree in a relevant field; experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.
  • Proven experience in outreach work with high-risk youth, particularly within Indigenous communities.
  • Deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and the specific challenges faced by Indigenous high-risk youth.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with an ability to establish rapport and trust.
  • Knowledge of local resources and services available to support youth.

Forward resume and cover letter to : [email protected]; subject: name of positing application.