Description

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


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

    • 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 reconciliation, gender equality and social inclusion, economic resilience, climate action, and cultural preservation. Through youth‑led projects, education partnerships, micro‑grants, volunteer placements, and initiatives such as the Northern Indigenous Program, FLINT Project, and Northern Distance Learning, Cuso supports Indigenous youth and organizations in designing and delivering solutions that reflect their community priorities and cultural traditions.

    Learn about Cuso’s work in the Northwest Territories

    Volunteer Support and Requirements 

    Support Package

    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 

    • Selection and Screening

    If you are shortlisted, you will need to: 

  • Confirm passport or permanent resident details for travel 
  • Provide two professional references and one personal reference 
  • Pass a vulnerable sector police check and medical clearance before departure 
  • Comply with anti-terrorism checks 
  • Agree to uphold the Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) policy and Code of Conduct 

    • Inclusion and Accessibility: Cuso International welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds and equity-deserving groups. We provide reasonable accommodations throughout recruitment and placement. If you have accessibility needs, please contact us for support.