Youth advocate Jobs in Ajax, ON

Job Details

The Durham District School Board acknowledges that many Indigenous Nations have longstanding relationships, both historic and modern, with the territories upon which our school board and schools are located. Today, this area is home to many Indigenous peoples from across Turtle Island. We acknowledge that the Durham Region forms a part of the traditional and treaty territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, the Mississauga Peoples and the treaty territory of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. It is on these ancestral and treaty lands that we teach, live and learn.

This statement was co-created in partnership with the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island.

Summary:

In the interest of extending supports and services to secondary students in receiving summer employment, it is proposed that a Focus on Youth (FOY) Summer Coordinator position be created to work directly with DDSB Camp Leads and community agencies employing these students.

Key Responsibilities:

Community Engagement & Relationship Building

• To work with internal stakeholders including Camp Leads, as well as community agencies across Durham to facilitate effective relationships and assist with building networks of support for students from historically/currently disadvantaged communities.

Training & Skill Development

• Plan and facilitate training of a group of secondary school students on interview skills and workplace etiquette, fostering the development of skills identified by community partners as needed in today's labor market.

Participant Collaboration

• Initiate and build relationships as well as facilitate connections between community groups/programs that could benefit students.

Capacity Building & Resource Access

• Build capacity through community connections, assisting with access to community-based resources and programs, support students' goals, interest and needs.

Workplace Coordination & Compliance

• Promote and facilitate connections with community agencies, building positive relationships between schools and agencies/workplaces.

Youth Mentorship & Support

• Provide direct support to youth employees, including coordination, training, problem solving, and coaching/mentoring.

Program Administration & Evaluation

• Facilitate and organize paperwork required for the student employment.
• Conduct weekly workplace visits and complete evaluations of student work, collecting student timesheets on a weekly basis.

Knowledge and Skills

• Demonstrated knowledge of Durham area community-based networks and social service agencies, including community resources, work placements.
• Proven ability to build positive relationships with students from historically/currently disadvantaged communities and form plans that will support them.
• Sound knowledge of community resources available for youth.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with community partners, students and internal stakeholders.
• Ability to travel between involved camps and workplaces.
• Ability to work independently with organizational and problem-solving skills to flexibility manage schedule and shifting priorities.

Education and Experience

• Post-secondary degree or diploma in social services or related fields, or equivalent experience working with youth in the community social services sector.

Additional Information

• This is an approximately 35 hour per week or more as required, contract position.
• Start Date: April 13, 2026
• 4-8 hours of work per week from April 13th-30th
• 4-8 hours of work per week during the month of May
• 2-3 evenings of work during the week of June 23rd
• Full-time duties from July 2nd - August 14th
• End date: September 18th

Equity and Inclusion

The Durham District School Board recognizes Indigenous rights are distinct. In the exercise of those rights, Indigenous staff and students shall not be subjected to actions with the aim or effect of depriving these distinct rights.

The DDSB is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. We are committed to reflecting the diverse communities we serve and encourage applications from candidates who bring a variety of experiences and backgrounds. We adhere to fair, transparent hiring practices and are committed to equity and accessibility throughout the recruitment process. If you need accommodation during the application process, please let us know, and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Ignite Your Career

At the Durham District School Board (DDSB), we inspire the lives of over 80,000 students. Our diverse communities are places where your impact will be felt every day.

Picture yourself in a workplace where your ideas are celebrated, and your growth is a top priority. Here, collaboration and innovation thrive. Whether you're directly inspiring young minds or providing essential support behind the scenes, your contributions will have a meaningful impact on students and the community.

We welcome you to bring your experiences, your passions, and your talents to our inclusive community. Join us and be part of a team that values your well-being as much as your contributions. Ignite your potential at DDSB and help us make a difference, one student at a time.