Katimavik’s National Experience is an amazing opportunity for any Canadian citizens, permanent residents or landed refugees aged 17 – 25 who are looking for 5.5 months of creative learning, community engagement, Truth and Reconciliation, and self-discovery! Youth will live in a group with up to 10 of their peers in two separate communities throughout the course of the program. During the program they engage in 32 valuable volunteer hours a week, learn how to manage a house, make lifelong friends, and gain confidence that they themselves can make an impactful difference in our country. This is a fully funded opportunity where participants’ travel expenses, living accommodations, food costs, and daily needs are covered. All they will need to bring is their dedication, empathy, and commitment to making a better world!

Some of the topics and skills that Participants will be challenged to learn about include:

• The history of Indigenous peoples in Canada and the importance of Truth and Reconciliation;
• The benefits and impact of civic engagement;
• Professional work skills in a variety of sectors, depending on volunteer placements;
• Cooking skills, house maintenance, and practical life skills;
• Conflict resolution, communication, and how to strive within a team environment;
• Environmental protection and sustainable development;
• English or French as an additional language;
• Leadership, advocacy, and project management skills;
• Canada’s cultural, geographic, and linguistic diversity.

Would you like to join a community that is helping individuals to leave poverty behind?

Led by YWCA Muskoka, Circles® Muskoka is a community collaborative committed to the reduction of poverty by harnessing the power of relationships. Circles® Muskoka helps families and individuals (Circle Leaders) living on lower income and in poverty by assisting them to increase their resources; reasons and relationships to move from surviving to thriving in their lives.

Benefits

Growing your professional network
Feeling like you are making a difference
A sense of meaning and purpose
Supporting others to reach their goals
Participating in personal development workshops
Strengthening your interpersonal and communication skills
Becoming part of a community and sharing a meal 3 evenings a month
Making new friends and having fun!

Responsibilities 

• Maintain confidentiality
• Be an active listener and offer support and encouragement when appropriate
• Provide encouragement towards meeting goals
• Build meaningful relationships with Leaders
• Share life experiences and advice when asked

Role requirements

• Attend at least one Circles meeting per month
• Pass a police background check
• Attend a Bridges out of Poverty’ workshop and Ally training session
• Being open to building friendships across economic lines