Indigenous Youth Education and Drop-In Worker

Hours: 35 hrs./wk. M-F

Classification: $24.89- $40.59 per hour

Location: 655 Bloor St. West Toronto

Position: Unionized

Classification: Contract (March 31, 2028) Full-Time

Native Child and Family Services of Toronto (NCFST) strives to provide a life of quality, well-being, caring, and healing for children and families in the Toronto Indigenous Community. We create a culture‑based service model that respects the values of Native people, the extended family, and the right to self‑determination, integrating holistic, culturally based prevention services that are child‑centered, family‑focused, and community‑driven.

Reporting to the Supervisor of Native Youth Resource Center, the Indigenous Youth Education and Employment Drop‑In Worker will:

• Provide direct service to Indigenous youth (16‑29 years old) experiencing problems that prohibit them from reaching their full potential.
• Provide support to Indigenous youth on site and in community (when required).
• Develop and facilitate educational, employment, life‑skill and cultural workshops in drop‑in services.
• Ensure that a full range of options are available to youth ready to take tangible steps toward achieving their potential.
• Support youth with school curriculum and resources to enhance learning.
• Liaise with community agencies, post‑secondary colleges and other agencies regarding the preparation and implementation of the certified course and educational pathways for youth.
• Prepare, coordinate, implement, and evaluate education and employment workshops.
• Recruit, monitor, and provide referrals and other wrap‑around supports as necessary to support youth—including transportation, food access, housing referrals, mental health and addictions support, cultural programming, and access to Elders and Knowledge Keepers—to reduce barriers to participation and success.
• Advocate on behalf of youth to ensure all rights and entitlements are secured.
• Develop and maintain case files and submit reports as required.
• Provide support and guidance around course material, homework, employment opportunities, resume writing, job applications.
• Provide lifestyle guidance, cultural enrichment, and employment preparation and skill building.
• Support the development of essential skills such as communication, problem‑solving and teamwork.
• Outreach regularly to ensure services are provided to youth in need.
• Must be able to work Youth Drop‑in Hours Tuesday‑Friday 9 am–7 pm and Saturdays 9 am–5 pm.
• Other related duties and responsibilities as required.

• Post‑secondary education in the social services field (CYC, SSW, BSW).
• At least 2 years of experience in youth work or a related setting.
• Knowledge and experience providing Indigenous cultural programming and teachings.
• Excellent ability to connect with First Nations/Metis/Inuit youth.
• Knowledge of the issues faced by Indigenous youth aged 16‑29 which can include culture loss and intergenerational trauma.
• Demonstrated understanding and commitment to integrating the Native Child and Family Services of Toronto mission and values into practice, service, and relationships.
• Lived experiences as an Indigenous person with the ability to transfer traditional knowledge and teachings, respecting the unique cultural distinctions and variations found throughout Turtle Island.
• Extensive knowledge of the history and culture of Indigenous peoples including First Nation, Métis, and Inuit.
• Knowledge of and sensitivity to the life experiences and needs of the Indigenous community, combined with previous community development experience.
• Ability and experience in providing individualized case management in a culturally appropriate manner that aligns with best practices.
• Ability to provide a Criminal Records Check deemed satisfactory by the employer upon offer of employment.
• Ability to provide an acceptable Child Welfare Check with Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC).

• Knowledge and skills in the design, development, delivery and evaluation of group programs/workshops.
• Knowledge of social risk factors in relation to the urban Indigenous community.
• Excellent organizational skills and computer…