Program Leader

Seaspar•Downers Grove, IL

16d•Onsite

About The Position

Are you looking for a part-time job with a purpose and an opportunity to lead recreational programs for people with special needs? Look no further than SEASPAR! We are a special recreation association, which is like a park district just for people with disabilities. We serve thirteen communities in eastern DuPage and southern Cook counties, and our home base is in Downers Grove. We offer recreational programming specifically for children and adults with special needs, and we're looking for kind and energetic people from all backgrounds to help our participants learn, grow, and most importantly have fun! Why work at SEASPAR? We offer flexible hours during days, evenings, and weekends! Interested? Read on for position details, then apply to become a member of Team SEASPAR today! Summary: Responsible for the management of and on-site supervision of a designated program. This includes but is not limited to program implementation, supervision, and safety of SEASPAR participants, property, equipment, and monies while working community based therapeutic recreation programs.

Requirements

High school or college diploma preferred.
Minimum of one-year experience at SEASPAR as a Program Support Staff or equivalent position; working knowledge of disabilities.
Must hold or be able to obtain CPR/First Aid certification.
Must be 18 years of age or older and able to perform the key responsibilities independently of others.

Responsibilities

Implement recreation activities as given by Program Coordinator for individuals with disabilities.
Adapt activities, rules, equipment and/or supplies as needed to ensure quality participation and the most independent participation possible.
Use judgment to effectively make decisions and solve problems.
Work with full-time staff to create appropriate groupings for program, activity, and participants.
Work with full-time staff, part-time leaders, program support staff, volunteers, parents, community partners, member entity staff, and individuals with special needs.
Supervise and participate in all planned activities. Delegate responsibilities to program assistants.
Interpret and use knowledge of the physical, mental, and medical limitations of participants to the benefit of the program.
Provide appropriate attention to all participants in all situations.
Discuss staffing concerns/issues with Program Manager.
Be alert and responsive to health and safety needs of the participants and staff.
Ensure safety factors relative to program and participant needs.
Take attendance of staff and participants; document incidents/accidents as necessary.
Complete a program summary at the completion of each week of program or special event.
Implement proper disciplinary techniques. Provide behavior management when necessary.
Ensure that the facility/program site as well as any equipment is properly maintained.
Read, understand, and abide by all SEASPAR policies and procedures.
Be available to listen to parent concerns. Answer questions on behalf of SEASPAR or refer questions to administrative staff.
Regular and predictable on-site attendance.
Other duties as assigned.
Motivate staff and participants – initiate success.
Attend all job-related seasonal orientations, in-services, conferences, and workshops as directed by supervisor.
Act as an advocate for the participant when necessary.
Be dependable and punctual.
Encourage participation and development of friendships with other participants in the program.
Gathering, loading, transporting, and setting up equipment if necessary. Loading/unloading and transporting participants in a safe manner.