Building relationships is a key part of many professions in the social-care sector. In Canada, youth workers play one of the most prominent roles, building relationships with young people in a range of settings, such as concerts, sporting events and even just informally over lunch.
Once the relationship has a good foundation, the youth worker can then move into the role of mentor and counsellor, offering advice about a number of issues, including school, job choices and relationship problems.
Other time is spent planning group activities. These activities are designed to cement these relationships and satisfy the needs and interests of the whole group.
Positions in New Brunswick offer the lowest yearly salaries, averaging out at around C
$26,000. However, those lucky enough to secure a position in Ontario fare much better, with this state offering the highest average salaries. In Toronto, salaries tend to be around C
$39,000 for this position.
No special qualifications are required, but applicants must have completed grade 12, as well as a 6,240-hour apprenticeship, before being considered a profession as a youth worker.