Get Involved
Volunteer & Careers
Volunteering with Niitoiyis
Join the circle
Volunteers are an important part of Niitoiyis. You can help in many ways—support programs, organize donations, help at events, or mentor youth.
All volunteers who work directly with our families receive training, including cultural safety and an introduction to our values. We ask for at least four hours each month and a commitment of three months.
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. We especially encourage Indigenous volunteers and those with lived experience of family violence, as they bring valuable understanding to the work.
Would rather join our team?
Why Work or Volunteer Here
A culturally safe workplace
Niitoiyis is committed to being a culturally safe environment for all staff and volunteers — especially Indigenous people. Our workplace reflects the values of respect, dignity, and wholistic care that we bring to our clients every day.
We celebrate Indigenous culture and honour ceremony as part of daily work life.
Cultural Safety Training
All staff and volunteers who work directly with clients at the shelter or Family Wellness Centre complete cultural-safety and trauma-informed care orientation before their first day. Volunteer Board members do not undergo this training but complete cultural awareness training throughout their term.
Elder Guidance
Led by Indigenous voices and grounded in Blackfoot, Tsuut’ina, and Stoney Nakoda teachings. Elders visit regularly to support staff and clients.
Wholistic Wellbeing
Staff wellbeing is treated as inseparable from client care. We build in time for healing, reflection, and team health.
Where You Can Help
Volunteer opportunities
Cultural Programming Support
Assist with Elder-led ceremonies, beading circles, and cultural workshops. Knowledge of Indigenous traditions is an asset but not required.
- Cultural humility and respect
- Ability to follow Elder direction
- Minimum 4 hours/month
Youth Programming
Support facilitators in youth workshops, cultural arts programs, and outings. Meaningful connection with young people in a trauma-informed environment.
- Police clearance required
- Experience with youth an asset
- Patience and warmth
Events & Fundraisers
Help set up, coordinate, and wrap up community events, fundraisers, and awareness campaigns. Great for those with event experience or community energy.
- Flexible availability
- Enthusiasm for community
- Physical mobility for setup
Donation Coordination
Sort, inventory, and organize in-kind donations of clothing, food, and supplies. Helps ensure every donation reaches those who need it most.
- Organized and detail-oriented
- Ability to lift moderate weight
- Scheduled availability
Administrative Support
Assist with data entry, mailings, filing, and administrative tasks that keep the organization running. Ideal for those with office skills.
- Basic computer skills
- Attention to detail
- Confidentiality essential
Elder & Knowledge Keeper Support
Support Elders during their visits and teaching circles — transportation, coordination, and dignified accompaniment. Deep respect for Indigenous knowledge holders required.
- Strong cultural humility
- Valid driver’s licence (asset)
- Flexibility and patience
Volunteer Board Members
Volunteer Board Member recruitment is ongoing, with Treaty 7 Member representation given priority. If interested, please contact us through our General Inquiry phone number, or if by email, insert “Governance Inquiry” in the subject line for more information.
Employment
Current job openings
We actively recruit individuals with lived experience of family violence or Indigenous heritage for all positions. Indigenous applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.
Background checks: Any role — paid or volunteer — that works directly with our shelter residents, children (under 18), or other vulnerable community members requires a current Police Information Check (PIC) and a Vulnerable Sector Check. We will guide you through the process during onboarding.
Volunteer Support Worker (Indigenous Children, Youth & Families)
Volunteer Part-TimeNiitoiyis is seeking dedicated and compassionate volunteers to support our culturally grounded programs and services for Indigenous children, youth, and families. Volunteers play an important role in strengthening community supports...
Practicums & Internships
Student placements
We welcome practicum and internship students from social work, counselling, Indigenous studies, education, and related programs. Placements are an opportunity to learn alongside Elders, knowledge keepers, and a wholistic, trauma-informed team.
To inquire about availability for the upcoming term, email your placement coordinator’s contact and your area of study to [email protected].
Ready to join our circle?
Whether through your time, your skills, or your generosity — every contribution shapes all the women and their families welcomed here. Thank you for walking with us.