EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Cultural Program Coordinator, Gladue Pathways
Full Time Term Position - March 31, 2031
Location: Thompson, Manitoba
Under the supervision of the Program Manager, Gladue Pathways, the Cultural Program Coordinator is responsible for ensuring that the MKO Gladue Pathways to Healing Initiative remains culturally grounded, responsive, and reflective of traditions, values and teachings of the twenty-six (26) First Nations in northern MB. Through a trauma-informed and culturally safe approach, the Cultural Program Coordinator supports the integration of Indigenous knowledge, ceremonies and land-based practices into Gladue Reports and Healing & Wellness Plans.
The Cultural Program Coordinator leads the development and delivery of culturally responsive programming, strengthens community capacity through collaboration and partnership development, and provides cultural guidance and mentorship to individuals involved in the criminal justice system, their families, communities and program staff. The position also identifies gaps in services and supports and works collaboratively with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community organizations to enhance local healing and reintegration opportunities.
Role and Responsibilities
Cultural Programming and Community Engagement
- Coordinate and deliver culturally grounded programming aligned with individualized Healing & Wellness Plans.
- Facilitate traditional teachings, ceremonies, cultural activities, and land-based programming that support healing, accountability, rehabilitation, and reintegration.
- Build trusting relationships with individuals involved in the justice system, their families, and communities through culturally responsive engagement.
- Promote cultural identity, resilience, self-worth, and belonging through trauma-informed and healing-centred approaches.
Cultural Leadership and Capacity Building
- Provide cultural guidance to program staff regarding Indigenous values, customs, protocols, and practices.
- Collaborate with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community partners to integrate traditional teachings into Healing & Wellness Plans.
- Identify gaps in community services and supports and develop culturally appropriate training, workshops, and mentorship opportunities.
- Establish and maintain partnerships with First Nations, justice system partners, and community agencies to strengthen local resources and supports.
Participant Support and Case Coordination
- Assist participants and families in accessing community-based services, cultural resources, and support programs.
- Coordinate and accompany participants to appointments, cultural activities, and community events, as required.
- Contribute cultural perspectives to multidisciplinary case planning and support crisis intervention when necessary.
Professional Responsibilities
- Maintain accurate records and documentation.
- Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and community consultations.
- Demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional and cultural development.
- Adhere to MKO policies, procedures, and protocols.
- Other duties as assigned.
- MKO is political advocacy organization that works to represent the leadership and member First Nations. All staff at MKO may be given other duties as assigned that enable MKO to fulfill the mandate and responsibility to its member communities.
Education and Experience
- Extensive knowledge of Indigenous cultures, traditions, teachings, ceremonies, and community protocols.
- Experience providing cultural teachings, mentorship, and facilitating ceremonies and land-based programming.
- Experience working with individuals, families, and communities within multidisciplinary and community-based environments.
- Knowledge of Gladue principles, restorative justice, trauma-informed practice, and the impacts of colonization, intergenerational trauma, and systemic discrimination.
- Strong interpersonal, facilitation, communication, and conflict-resolution skills, with the ability to build respectful and trusting relationships.
- Must be able to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment.
- Strong computer literacy skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
- Ability to be flexible and travel as required.
- Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.
- Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
- Ability to communicate in Cree, Dene and/or Anisininew languages is considered an asset.
- Possess valid drivers license and access to a reliable vehicle.
- Candidates are required to provide a current Criminal Record Check, Child Abuse Registry Self-Check, and Adult Abuse Registry Self-Check.
Salary is dependent on qualifications and experience
Interested applicants are invited to submit their cover letter identifying the position applying for and resume, along with 3 professional reference listings (include a most recent employer reference) by 4:00 p.m. on August 7, 2026.
We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Preference will be given to qualified First Nation applicants; applicants are encouraged to self-declare in their resume or cover letter. No phone calls will be accepted.
Incorporated in 1981 as the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO). MKO is a non-profit, political advocacy organization that provides a collective voice on issues of inherent, Treaty, Indigenous, and human rights for citizens of the 26 sovereign First Nations we represent. The MKO First Nations are signatory to Treaties 4, 5, 6, and 10.
Please visit our website at mkonation.com
