Community Aboriginal Recreation Activator (CARA) Worker

Chippewas of the Thames First Nation is accepting applicants for the position of:

Position Title:             Community Aboriginal Recreation Activator (CARA) Worker

Department:               Child, Youth, and Family Well-Being Services

Hours of Work:          37.5 hours per week working onsite 8:30am – 4:30pm

Location:                    328 Chippewa Road, Muncey ON

Posting Date:             May 13, 2026

Posting Closes:          June 3, 2026

Summary:

The Community Aboriginal Recreation Activator (CARA) Worker supports the planning, coordination, and delivery of recreation, wellness, leadership, cultural, and community-based programming for children, youth, adults, Elders, and families within Chippewas of the Thames First Nation.

Working under the direction of the Youth & Recreation Coordinator, this role helps create safe, inclusive, and culturally grounded environments that promote wellbeing, belonging, physical activity, and strong community connections. The position plays an important role in supporting youth engagement, community wellness initiatives, and intergenerational programming while maintaining professional standards and respectful service delivery.

Responsibilities:

• Plan and deliver recreation, wellness, after-school, youth leadership, and community programming
• Create safe, inclusive, culturally grounded, and trauma-informed program environments
• Support youth engagement, leadership development, and healthy lifestyles
• Assist with supervision and facilitation of programs, events, and activities
• Maintain communication with the Youth & Recreation Coordinator on program updates and needs
• Welcome and support participants, families, and community members respectfully
• Ensure programming aligns with departmental priorities and community needs
• Monitor participation and identify trends, risks, or improvements
• Maintain accurate program records (attendance, reports, evaluations, etc.)
• Prepare and submit monthly program and activity reports
• Track receipts and assist with financial and administrative documentation
• Assist with program setup, delivery, and cleanup for events and activities
• Support participant safety and incident reporting processes
• Participate in meetings, training, and community planning sessions
• Build positive relationships with youth, families, Elders, and partners
• Support departmental initiatives and community wellness programming
• Follow all organizational policies, procedures, and safety standards

Qualifications:

• High school diploma required
• College diploma in Recreation, Child & Youth Care, Social Services, or related field preferred
• 1–2 years of experience in recreation, youth, or community programming preferred
• Experience working with First Nation or Indigenous communities is strongly preferred
• Experience facilitating programs, events, or youth activities is an asset
• Experience with documentation, reporting, and program administration is an asset
• CPR/First Aid certification required (or willingness to obtain)
• Additional training (e.g., Mental Health First Aid, HIGH FIVE) is an asset
• Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic documentation systems
• Valid Class G driver’s licence, reliable vehicle, and required insurance
• Clear Police Records Check and Vulnerable Sector Check required
• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends

What Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Has to Offer:

• Comprehensive benefits for permanent employees, supporting health, dental, and overall well-being.
• Employer-matched pension plan to help build long-term financial security.
• Access to a confidential Family Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support mental, emotional, and family wellness.
• Two-week holiday closure over Christmas and New Year’s, providing dedicated time to rest and recharge with family and community.

Chippewas of the Thames First Nation gives hiring preference to qualified Indigenous applicants, with first preference given to qualified Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Band Members. Applicants who wish to be considered under this preference are encouraged to self-identify in their application.
Interested applicants, please submit a cover letter, resume, three work related references, photocopies of education documents to:

human.resources@cottfn.com
OR
320 Chippewa Road, Muncey, ON N0L 1Y0

Please indicate “Community Aboriginal Recreation Activator (CARA) Worker” in your application.

We thank all candidates for applying; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Accommodations are available on request (by email to human.resources@cottfn.com) for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

As a federally regulated employer, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation is not required to include compensation ranges in job postings. Depending on the nature of the recruitment and the position, we may choose to share salary or pay band information in the posting or during the early stages of the process. Compensation is always discussed with candidates during recruitment to ensure clarity and alignment with their expectations and experience.