Youth Engagement & Restorative Justice Facilitator

Youth Engagement & Restorative Justice Facilitator

Youth Engagement & Restorative Justice Facilitator

About Peacebuilders Peacebuilders is a Toronto-based non-profit organization dedicated to improving access to justice for youth involved in the legal system and advocating for transformative changes within our justice and education systems. In Canada, the traditional punitive approaches of the youth justice system often perpetuate cycles of recidivism, failing to address the root causes of youth crime. This limits opportunities for rehabilitation and negatively impacts long-term community health.

Peacebuilders promote a restorative approach that fosters social connection, encourages rehabilitation, and invests in building healthier communities. We believe that every young person deserves a chance to be heard, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.

Position Overview Peacebuilders is seeking skilled and compassionate independent contractors to facilitate a range of youth programs, including wellness initiatives, leadership development, and restorative justice-based court diversion. Facilitators will play a key role in creating safe, inclusive, and supportive spaces where youth can build life skills, develop self-awareness, and explore personal and cultural identity. This role requires strong facilitation, youth engagement, and case management skills, as well as a commitment to restorative and trauma-informed practices.

Facilitators will be hired at one of two levels, depending on their experience and qualifications:

• Level 1 - Youth Engagement Facilitator (entry to early-career)
• Level 2 - Restorative Justice Facilitator (experienced professional/mentor role)

Level 1 – Youth Engagement Facilitator

Level 1 Facilitators are passionate, early-career individuals focused on engaging with youth to promote restorative practices and community building. They are typically post-secondary students, recent graduates, or individuals with relevant lived experience.

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Facilitate weekly group-based sessions across multiple programs (Leaders of Tomorrow, Sister 2 Sister, Restorative Youth Circles).

• Co-facilitate with Circle Keepers in restorative justice processes.
• Deliver curriculum on identity, wellness, conflict resolution, restorative values,leadership, accountability, and communication.
• Build rapport and meaningful relationships with youth participants.
• Identify and respond to youth needs through referrals and follow-ups.
• Maintain accurate case notes, attendance logs, and session summaries.
• Administer participant surveys and contribute to program evaluation.
• Provide updates to the Program Manager and Coordinators.
• Represent Peacebuilders positively in schools and the community.
• Participate in training, mentorship, and professional development.
• Be available for occasional evenings and weekends based on program needs.

Skills & Qualifications:

• 1–2 years of experience facilitating youth programs, particularly with racialized, justice involved, or marginalized youth.

• Degree or diploma in social work, sociology, child and youth care, youth justice, or relevant lived experience.

• Knowledge of restorative justice, trauma informed practices, anti-oppression, and culturally responsive approaches.

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship building skills.
• Organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Commitment to equity, anti-oppression, and inclusive programming.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and documentation practices.

Availability & Commitment:

• Approximately 3 hours per week, flexible scheduling.
• Commitment for a 10 month period.

Level 2 – Restorative Justice Facilitator

Level 2 Facilitators are experienced professionals with backgrounds in social work, youth justice, community development, conflict resolution, or education. They are responsible for leading restorative practices, mentoring Level 1 facilitators, and collaborating with schools and community organizations to promote systemic change.

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Lead restorative justice circles as the primary Circle Keeper in justice and school settings.

• Facilitate teacher training, professional development sessions, and targeted interventions.

• Deliver restorative programs that address conflict resolution, accountability, healing, and community cohesion.

• Collaborate with Program Coordinators to design, adapt, and evaluate program models.

• Provide conflict mediation and individualized support for youth participants.
• Mentor and supervise Level 1 facilitators, providing coaching and feedback.
• Prepare detailed reports for internal use and external stakeholders such as schools and courts.
• Maintain accurate case notes, attendance records, and evaluation data.
• Represent Peacebuilders at community forums, advocacy events, and partnership meetings.
• Engage in ongoing professional development and mentorship sessions.
• Be available for flexible hours, including evenings and weekends when required.

Skills & Qualifications:

• 3–5 years of professional experience in youth services, social work, conflict resolution, or restorative practices.

• Advanced knowledge and practical application of restorative justice principles.
• Demonstrated leadership, supervision, and mentorship skills.
• Proven conflict mediation and facilitation experience with diverse groups.
• Strong program management, organizational, and evaluation skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Resilience, adaptability, and deep commitment to social justice, equity, and inclusion.

Availability & Commitment:

• Approximately 3–6 hours per week during school hours.
• Commitment for a 10-month period.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a brief cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience to recruitment@peacebuilders.ca.

Applications will be accepted for either Level 1 or Level 2 facilitator roles. Peacebuilders is committed to diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Peacebuilders is an equal opportunity employer, and we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

If you require any accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know.