Indigenous Youth Sports & Recreation Coordinator; Summer Placement

Overview

Indigenous Youth Sports & Recreation Coordinator; Summer Placement Jobs in Whitehorse, Canada at Cuso International

Position: Indigenous Youth Sports & Recreation Coordinator (Summer Placement)

Volunteer

Location:

Indigenous communities across Canada’s North (Yukon and Northwest Territories)

Placement duration: June – August 2026 (3 months)

Language Requirements: English Level 5-Fluent

Eligibility: Open to Canadian Citizens (including Permanent Residents and Open Work permit holders) only

Indigenous applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. Cuso International warmly welcomes First Nations, Inuit, and Métis individuals who are interested in supporting youth leadership and community‑driven recreation in northern communities. Indigenous lived experience, cultural knowledge, and community connections are highly valued in this role.

The Volunteer’s Role

Cuso International is seeking a motivated individual with experience or interest in sports, recreation, or youth coaching who is excited about the opportunity to live and work in northern Indigenous communities this summer. Volunteers will work alongside local youth to support and strengthen youth-led recreation and sport activities, focusing on coordination, mentorship, and leadership development rather than direct program delivery.

This role offers a unique combination of impactful work and a transformative northern living experience, making it ideally suited for students or early-career professionals who have experience or a strong interest in areas such as sports coaching, recreation leadership, youth programming, physical education or kinesiology, and Indigenous cultures. We are looking for individuals who are adaptable, culturally respectful, comfortable working in youth-led environments, and able to support evolving plans shaped by community priorities.

As a volunteer, you will:

Support youth to design, organize, and lead recreation and sport activities in schools and community spaces

Help youth coordinate and strengthen team sports, fitness activities, and inclusive recreation initiatives that they identify as priorities

Build trusting, respectful relationships with youth and serve as a positive role model and mentor with a strong focus on supporting youth leadership and shared decision-making

Work with youth whose activities are supported through flexible microgrants, helping them plan, budget, and deliver their ideas

Work alongside school staff, recreation coordinators, and community partners to align programming with local needs

Help identify gaps in processes and propose innovative solutions

Promote teamwork, leadership, confidence, and well-being through youth-led and community-defined activities.

Ensure activities are safe, inclusive, and accessible to youth of all abilities

Participate in community life and demonstrate respect for Indigenous cultures, traditions, and protocols

Essential Background:

Experience working with youth in sport, recreation, or community-based settings

Cultural awareness, humility, and a willingness to learn about Indigenous Peoples in Canada

Strong communication, relationship-building and facilitation skills

Willingness to live in remote or rural communities

First Aid and/or CPR certification (asset)

Essential Requirements:

Completed high school diploma

Ability to pass a vulnerable sector police check

Must currently reside in Canada

Learn how youth leaders like Reanna Brownlee, brought Northern and Dene Games to life for her community.

Why Join This Program?

Make a tangible difference in youth well‑being and community life

Gain hands‑on experience in recreation programming and community development

Build skills and connections that support early‑career growth

Learn about Indigenous communities and experience life in Canada’s North through a purpose‑driven placement

Be part of Cuso International’s initiative in shaping future volunteer opportunities to support the community

Each volunteer placement is a unique experience. Read about the impact of previous volunteers in Northern Canada

About Us

Cuso International’s (Cuso) Indigenous Canada Program works in partnership with Indigenous communities in the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut to support community‑led initiatives that strengthen youth leadership, culture, and long‑term well‑being. Guided by Indigenous knowledge and self‑determination, the program focuses on…

Title: Indigenous Youth Sports & Recreation Coordinator; Summer Placement

Company: Cuso International

Location: Whitehorse, Canada

Category: