At the Youth and Family Wellness Camp, we’re not just a destination—we’re a close-knit community. This summer, we’re gearing up for an extraordinary series of day and overnight camps, inviting youth from surrounding first nation communities, to embark on a journey of growth and fun. With a diverse array of land and water-based adventures to arts, sports, and team building, our camps are designed to foster valuable life skills, boost self-esteem, and cultivate lasting friendships.
Position Description:
We are seeking one (1) dynamic Sports Activity Specialist to join our team at the Youth & Family Wellness Camp. This role supports summer programming for youth ages 6–15 from Kenora and our Treaty 3 partner communities. At the Youth & Family Wellness Camp, each day is filled with excitement, learning, and connection. As the Sports Activity Specialist, you will be at the centre of the action—leading campers and mentoring Senior and Junior staff through dynamic sports programming, physical literacy experiences, and land-based outdoor activities rooted in Indigenous teachings and values. Sports Activity Specialist could led; canoeing & Portaging, Environmental Activities, Gardening, Tripping; Fire Making, Wilderness Stafey, Beach Volleyball, Archery, Gaga Ball, and a wide variety of traditional Indigenous sports.
Position Title: Sports & Outdoor Education Activity Specialist
Location: 371 Strecker Road, Kenora, Ontario, P9N 4N8
Report To: Activity Supervisor, KCA Youth & Family Wellness Camp
Contract: May 25, 2026 – August 21, 2026
Hourly Rate: $19.00/Hour (40 per week) + Bonus Opportunity, $1.00 for every hour worked
if contract is completed
Special Considerations: Summer Camp, Training & Program Support Prior
(4 Weeks – July) Day Camp
(2 Weeks, 3 Nights/4 Days – August) Overnight Camp –3x 12 Hour Shifts
Positions Available: 1 Position
Duties and Responsibilities:
Be a Role Model of Inspiration:
- Arrive punctually each day, ready to set the standard for behavior and engagement.
- Fully engage in staff training sessions.
- Wear the staff uniform, embodying the essence of camp professionalism.
- Model engaging and well-planned activities that inspire campers and staff alike.
Training & Professional Development
- Participate in YES Program training workshops and onboarding.
- Attend regular check-ins and professional development sessions.
- Complete all job-specific training and demonstrate confidence in assigned cleaning tasks.
- Assist with the design and delivery of staff training, including orientation for summer staff
- Provide mentorship and professional development throughout the summer, focusing on teaching skills, communication, and cultural awareness.
- Model professionalism, positivity, and respect in all interactions with staff, community members and campers.
Leadership & Supervision
- Provide day-to-day leadership, guidance, and support to staff and counsellors involved in sports programming.
- Conduct daily safety briefings and participate in weekly team meetings to review program goals, schedules, and risk management protocols.
- Deliver engaging, inclusive, and culturally connected sport-base activities that promote skill development, confidence, and respect for the land and water.
- Assist with the safe transportation and movement of campers to and from sports program areas on site.
- Foster a positive, safety-focused, and collaborative work environment grounded in the Sacred Teachings and the organization’s mission and values.
- Lead and facilitate the baseball program, supported by the Indigenous Rookie League team to enhance skills, engagement, and program quality.
Safety & Risk Management
- Prioritize the safety and well-being of campers by maintaining constant supervision.
- Ensure all activities meet safety protocols and are delivered in a manner that prioritizes camper well-being.
- Conduct daily inspections of activity spaces and report any concerns immediately to supervisor.
- Support campers in following rules and expectations respectfully and consistently, ensuring safety and adherence to camp policies and procedures.
- Document and report incidents in accordance with camp safety policies.
Cultural Integration
- Support Activity Specialists by reinforcing cultural teachings, language, and values during waterfront activities.
- Collaborate with the Cultural Lead to ensure traditional knowledge, water teachings, and land-based practices are integrated respectfully into waterfront programming.
- Promote a welcoming, culturally safe environment where campers feel comfortable learning, sharing, and exploring their identity while on the water.
Site and Equipment Maintenance
- Conduct regular checks of sports equipment and communicate supply or safety needs promptly.
- Maintain the cleanliness and organization of spaces during program hours, ensuring all areas remain safe, functional, and ready for use.
- Report any safety concerns, site hazards, or equipment malfunctions immediately to support quick action and prevent risk.
Other Duties as Assigned:
- Willingness to adapt working hours based on needs of program
- Be flexible and adaptable, ready to support camp operations in any capacity required.
Qualifications:
- Ability to work independently and in a team setting.
- Knowledge of the Anishinaabe culture and language and experience in working in an Indigenous community or organization considered an asset.
- Experience working with children in a camp environment or similar setting.
- Ability to plan, organize, and lead a variety of engaging activities for children of different ages.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with campers, parents, and other staff members.
- Knowledge of safety procedures and ability to respond to emergency situations.
- Physical fitness and ability to participate in camp activities alongside campers.
- Flexibility and adaptability to changes in schedule, program, or weather conditions.
- Creativity and willingness to bring new ideas and approaches to the camp program.
- Must be willing to travel when required.
- Vulnerable Sector Criminal Records Search.
- First Aid qualifications (minimum of Emergency First Aid) is an asset or must be willing to obtain certificate prior to commencement of work assignment.
- High Five Certification is an asset.
Education and/or Experience:
- College diploma or equivalent community work experience in the following areas:
- Community Services (Physical Education, Child and Youth Worker, Recreation and Leisure, Social Service Worker, Early Childhood Educator); Aboriginal specific programs (Community Advocacy, Education, Child and Family Services
- Aboriginal Studies, Studies in Traditional Teaching
- Experience working with children and youth in sports and recreation programming
- Understanding of the Ojibway language is considered an asset
Additional Requirements:
- Valid driver’s license and vehicle;
- Must be willing to travel when required;
- Vulnerable Sector Criminal Records Search.
Criteria
- Between the ages of 15 to 24
- Be available for the whole summer
- Identity as Indigenous – Asset: Treaty 3
- Enrolled in Post Secondary – Asset
Please forward resume, cover letter, and 3 references to:
Human Resource Department
Kenora Chiefs Advisory
P.O. Box 349- 240 Veterans Drive, 3rd Floor
Kenora ON P9N 3X4
Fax: 807-467-2656
Email: resume@kenorachiefs.org
*We thank all that apply, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted
** Traditional practices involve burning sacred medicines including tobacco, sweetgrass, sage and cedar within the work setting