Community Aboriginal Recreation Activator (CARA) Worker, Elgin (Dorchester)

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, onsite 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

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: .

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 ) 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.

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