Brief Description:

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

Placement duration: June - August 2026 (3 months)

Language Requirements: English

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

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
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

Cuso International provides a comprehensive support package to ensure volunteers maintain a modest and healthy lifestyle aligned with local standards. This includes:

Modest living stipend for the duration of the placement
Accommodation within the host community
Emergency Medical Insurance
Round‑trip travel to and from the placement location
Online pre-placement and reintegration training (along with access to self-directed materials and online resources)
Ongoing support provided by Cuso International's office
Access to the Employee Assistance Program during and after placement

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