Program Coordinator, Gibimishkaadimin (Canada Summer Job Program)

Description

Gibimishkaadimin is a youth-focused reconciliation initiative that brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth for cultural education, relationship-building, and land-based learning. Reporting to the Gibimishkaadimin Project Manager, the successful candidate will support the planning and coordination of cultural and educational resources in preparation for the 2025 Gibimishkaadimin canoe and camping trip in Temagami, Ontario (August 20–27). Responsibilities will also include assisting with youth recruitment, program communications, and administrative support.

This unique opportunity is a remote work position and is ideal for someone with a strong interest in Indigenous education, reconciliation, and community engagement. The successful applicant will be invited to attend the summer trip as a volunteer, with all travel and accommodation costs covered.

Main Responsibilities will include:

1. Community Engagement & Relationship Building

   Establish and maintain supportive relationships with Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community leaders—both within the coordinator’s own community and with Temagami First Nation, Bear Island. Collaborate with the volunteer Leadership Team and program Outfitters to ensure alignment with cultural protocols. Model and encourage core teachings including wisdom, love, respect, bravery, honesty, humility, and truth throughout all program activities.

2. Program Outreach & Participant Recruitment

   Maintain and update the community outreach database (including Friendship Centres, Cultural Centres, etc.). Prepare and distribute application materials to communities, collect and organize program applications, and respond to inquiries from applicants and families. Support the applicant review process and communicate final decisions to participants. Promote the program’s goals of cultural education and reconciliation through effective outreach.

3. Participant Support & Communication

   Develop and manage communications with applicants and confirmed participants, including email packages, phone outreach, and virtual information sessions. Maintain accurate records and databases of participant information, forms, and travel details. Serve as a point of contact for participant needs and ensure any accommodation requirements are communicated to the appropriate team members.

4. Program Logistics & Coordination

   Coordinate travel, accommodation, and meal arrangements for pre-trip gatherings at Georgian College in Barrie, Ontario. Assist with transportation planning, including bus coordination from Toronto Pearson Airport. Collaborate with the Travel Coordinator and Leadership Team to ensure smooth logistics for both participants and program staff.

5. Cultural Education & Resource Preparation

   Support the Leadership Team in planning and implementing Indigenous culture and education sessions. Prepare a list of necessary supplies with a focus on sourcing from Indigenous-owned vendors. Order, organize, and assemble participant packages and materials. Contribute to the creation of culturally relevant programming that supports youth learning and relationship-building.

6. Evaluation, Leadership Development & Reconciliation Support

   Lead and support youth throughout the Gibimishkaadimin canoe and camping trip as a member of the Program Team. Foster reconciliation and mutual respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth. Assist in identifying leadership potential among participants and support their ongoing development. Develop a post-program experience survey and contribute to overall program evaluation and improvement efforts.

Qualifications

In order to qualify, you must:

• Have a valid Social Insurance Number and be legally entitled to work in Canada under provincial/territorial regulations
• Be able to provide a clean Criminal Reference Check and a clean Vulnerable Sector (VS) Check at the start of employment
• Have an understanding of Indigenous culture, teachings, and traditions
• Have experience in education or youth programming, particularly with youth ages 14-18
• Possess excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills to liaise effectively with youth participants and Gibimishkaadimin stakeholders (e.g., Board, churches, community organizations)
• Demonstrate strong organizational skills with attention to detail
• Be proficient in the use of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Zoom, and internet-based tools
• Knowledge of the United Church of Canada and its history is considered an asset

The United Church of Canada is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants, including those with disabilities. If you are contacted regarding a job opportunity, please advise us of your accommodation needs at that time. 

Compensation

Salary will be at $21.00 per hour plus 4% vacation pay.

To Apply

Interested applicants are invited to submit their resume quoting job #25-16 Program Coordinator, Gibimishkaadimin on the subject line to Human Resources:  Careers@united-church.ca