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Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. (MKO) is seeking two (2) Land Based Helpers. The Land Based Helper will assist in the delivery of culturally appropriate trauma informed healing and wellness opportunities for youth involved in the justice system. Reporting to the Youth Justice Initiatives Project Lead, the Land Based Helper will support youth in exploring their culture and identity through traditional land-based teachings, activities and ceremony. The Land Based Helper will work with the Cultural Mentor to promote a positive self-identity and sense of belonging contributing to their successful reunification and reintegration to family and community.

Preference will be given to First Nation and Inuit candidates.

Role and Responsibilities
• Work collaboratively with the Land Based Healing & Wellness Mentor to support the transmission of traditional knowledge, ceremony, and healing by assisting with the planning and facilitating of land-based wellness activities for youth; strengthening the youth’s connection to self, family, community and nation.
• Participate in the creation of the youth’s healing/wellness plan, and perform a supportive role in implementation to ensure consistent cultural supports and interventions.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with youth and families by attending, participating and supporting community events and activities with a focus on prevention and holistic wellness.
• Utilize a strength-based approach to promote a strong positive self-identity and sense of belonging by focusing on the cultural and spiritual needs of the youth.
• Support the youth reintegration path with family and community by role modelling and supporting positive lifestyle and self management skills.
• Support culturally appropriate guidance, counselling and mentorship by sharing knowledge of traditional culture, language, teachings and practices.
• Transport and accompany youth/parents/caregivers to activities and ceremonies as needed.
• Engage in behaviour management, intervening in crisis situations as needed.
• Observe, assess and document youth engagement by maintaining accurate and objective notes and files as necessary.
• Provide administrative support to the Land Based Healing & Wellness Mentor.
• Demonstrate an active commitment towards professional growth and development through active participation in training, workshops, etc.
• Perform all other duties as assigned to engage and support MKO programs and member nations (MKO is political advocacy organization that works to represent the leadership and member First Nations. All staff at MKO may be given other duties as assigned that enable MKO to fulfill the mandate and responsibility to its member communities)
• Other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience
• Knowledge and experience in traditional livelihood activities (ie. fishing, trapping, hunting, harvesting, canoeing, snowshoeing, etc.)
• Knowledge of traditional teachings, ceremonies and protocols/cultural norms including experience participating in or facilitating ceremony alongside youth, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers.
• In depth knowledge and understanding of the impacts of colonization and intergenerational trauma in Indigenous families and communities; including the ability to recognize and respond to symptoms of trauma in any situation or setting.
• Demonstrated connection/membership to a First Nation community.
• Training and experience working from a trauma-informed perspective.
• Experience working with and supporting youth and families.
• Experience living and/or working in First Nation or northern communities.
• Experience working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team and/or environment.
• Case management experience from a holistic worldview that considers and incorporates all aspects of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
• Education, training and/or experience in individual and group counselling.
• Possess a valid Class 5F Manitoba driver’s license and have access to a reliable vehicle.
• Proficient computer skills and the ability to use Microsoft Office, Excel, Power point and Outlook.
• Travel to northern and remote First Nation communities, and the ability to work flexible hours as required.
• Produce a satisfactory criminal record, child and adult abuse registry and vulnerable sector checks.

Salary is dependant upon qualifications and experience

Interested applicants are invited to submit their cover letter identifying the position applying for and resume, along with 3
professional reference listings (include a most recent employer reference) by 4:00 p.m. on June 11, 2025 to: Human Resources at [email protected]

We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Preference will be
given to qualified First Nations applicants; applicants are encouraged to self-declare in their resume or cover letter. No
phone calls will be accepted.

Incorporated in 1981 as the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO). MKO is a non-profit, political advocacy organization that provides a collective voice on issues of inherent, Treaty, Indigenous, and human rights for citizens of the 26 sovereign First Nations we represent. The MKO First Nations are signatory to Treaties 4, 5, 6, and 10.

Please visit our website at www.mkonation.com