Elder Engagement Specialist

Purpose of Position: The Elder Engagement Specialist supports the goals and outcomes of the Tháŋkake project by engaging Native Elders and coordinating culturally grounded intergenerational programming. The Specialist creates meaningful opportunities for Native Elders and American Indian youth to build relationships, share knowledge, strengthen cultural connections, and learn from one another. This role supports the development and coordination of intergenerational activities and community events that foster reciprocal learning, cultural continuity, and stronger connections across generations.

Responsibilities:

Support outreach, engagement, and continued participation of Native Elders in Tháŋkake project activities.

Plan, coordinate, and facilitate one monthly intergenerational activity that brings Native Elders and American Indian youth together to build relationships, share knowledge, and strengthen cultural connections.

Support Elders in serving as teachers, mentors, leaders, and knowledge keepers by creating opportunities to share cultural knowledge, lived experiences, traditional teachings, and skills with younger generations.

Coordinate reciprocal learning opportunities that recognize the knowledge and contributions of both Elders and youth, including youth-to-Elder technology sharing.

Collaborate with Elder and Youth Services staff, Elders in Residence, and the Elder Advisory Council to develop culturally grounded activities that reflect participant interests, community priorities, and intergenerational learning goals.

Coordinate event planning and logistics, including participant communication, scheduling, activity preparation, supplies, and community outreach to support successful and engaging programming.

Monitor participant attendance and engagement and collect project data, participant feedback, and evaluation information to support program improvement and project outcomes.

Perform other duties related to the successful implementation of the Tháŋkake project as assigned.