Executive Director, New Hope Youth Centre

--Hope Story is posting this job on behalf of New Hope Youth Centre, a registered charity with whom we enjoy a close partnership-- 

New Hope Youth Centre (NHYC) in Thunder Bay, ON, is a Christian drop-in centre that has, for nearly 20 years, offered a safe place for First Nations youth to build friendships, receive encouragement, and experience God’s love. The Executive Director provides spiritual, strategic, and operational leadership to ensure NHYC remains a culturally sensitive, Christ-centred, life-giving space. The role strengthens community partnerships, guides programming, and equips staff and volunteers to mentor and disciple youth with compassion and cultural understanding.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

Leadership & Vision 

• Provide spiritual, strategic, and operational leadership for the Centre.
• Cast and implement a compelling vision aligned with NHYC’s mission and Christian values.
• Represent NHYC in church, community, and donor settings. 

Program Oversight 

• Maintain a safe, welcoming, culturally sensitive environment for First Nations youth and all participants.
• Ensure programs are engaging, trauma-aware, and supportive of youth facing displacement or identity struggles.
• Develop leadership opportunities for youth and volunteers, as well as avenues for discipleship through local church partnerships. 

Community Engagement & Donor Relations 

• Build relationships with local First Nations communities, schools, churches, and service providers to support youth wellbeing and increase community trust.
• Develop and manage an annual fundraising plan, including donor relations, events, and grant applications.
• Communicate regularly with churches, donors, and other stakeholders. 

Administration 

• Manage facilities, resources, and program reporting.
• Ensure responsible stewardship of NHYC finances, including proper documentation of expenditures, adherence to budget limits, and ethical handling of donor funds.
• Provide regular reports and policy recommendations to the NHYC Board. 

Volunteer Management 

• Recruit, train, supervise, and support volunteers and mentors.
• Ensure compliance with safeguarding and child-protection policies. 

QUALIFICATIONS – REQUIRED 

• A committed and growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in youth work or related ministry (min. 3 years).
• Experience working closely with First Nations youth or communities.
• Strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills. 

QUALIFICATIONS – PREFERRED 

• Bachelor’s degree in religious education, youth work, counselling, or related field.
• Public speaking ability
• Donor relations cultivation, fundraising, and grant writing
• Familiarity with social media 

WORKING CONDITIONS 

• Willing to work evenings and weekends.
• Must pass a background check and adhere to NHYC safeguarding policies.
• Must affirm the Nicene Creed