PART-TIME CONTRACT Direct Support Worker - Youth Exploring Possibilities at KW Habilitation

LOCATION: Kitchener, ON

KW Habilitation is a local not-for-profit organization that provides a wide range of individualized services and supports to children with any special need and adults with developmental disabilities. We support individuals to live a fulfilling life which is fostered through preschool and early learning supports, respite services, residential services, community participation, and employment supports.

Successful candidates will be energetic, person directed, highly motivated, and organized. The goal of the position is to offer youth with developmental disabilities ages 13-25 a group to build self-advocacy/independent skills and express creativity in a safe, fun environment.

YEP Social will create connections for youth across the community rather than limit their connections to just their immediate schools. YEP Social will allow people from across many schools to create a community that will enhance their personal life after high school. A place outside of the school system to socialize is important to building connections. YEP Skills will help youth build the confidence and practical abilities they need to succeed beyond high school. Through hands-on learning and real-world practice, participants will strengthen essential life skills—like communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and self-management—that support independence and success in all areas of life. By developing these skills in a supportive, community-based setting, youth can prepare for adulthood while connecting with peers who share their goals for the future.

Perks

• Developmental Service Worker Apprenticeship Program Sponsor
• Paid on-the-job training
• Paid professional development opportunities
• Employee and Family Assistance Program for all staff, their partners, and dependents
• Discounted rates on home and auto insurance
• Fun and engaging workplace.

Responsibilities

• Organizing and implementing a monthly schedule aimed at engaging young people in community activities
• Creating and facilitating courses to support skill development and independence
• Providing a respectful and supportive atmosphere that promotes people’s skills and abilities
• Encouraging exploration
• Providing opportunities and education for growth.

Requirements

• Some Post-Secondary education in a related Human Services Field
• Commitment to providing person-directed support, fostering independence, and advocating for others
• Able to demonstrate creative problem solving and decision making, initiative, resilience, and collaboration
• Experience working/volunteering with youth who have a developmental disability preferred
• First Aid and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) training an asset
• A valid G or G2 driver’s license and basic computer skills.

Core Competencies

• Advocacy

• Building Relationships

• Championing Change and Innovation

• Facilitating Growth and Development

• Inclusive Leadership

• Problem Solving & Decision Making

• Resilience

• Resource Management

• Strategic Thinking

• Valuing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)

Schedule: 30-40 hours a month (primarily evenings)
Start Date: December 2025
End Date: January 2027
Pay Rate: $21.41 – $23.79

Applicants must submit a résumé and cover letter online with a summary of relevant qualifications and reason for interest in this position by Wednesday, December 3, 2025.

To apply, please visit our Job Application page

Please address the cover letter to the location Manager:
ATTN: Amy Haynes – Supervisor of Community Supports

Only successful applicants will be notified. If you are selected for an interview, you will be contacted.

Job ID: 251235

KW Habilitation is committed to employment equity. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates including, 2SLGBTQ+ identified persons, persons with disabilities, First Nations, Inuit and Métis Individuals, and members of Black and other racialized communities, and individuals for whom English is not their first language. We seek to provide accessibility for all applicants with our accessibility policies and the AODA. Please let us know if you require an accommodation and we will work with you to meet your accessibility needs. We thank all applicants; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.