Recreation Assistant

Youth Villages • Memphis, TN

23h • $50,000 - $51,000

About The Position

For over 35 years, Youth Villages has transformed the lives of children and families nationwide through innovative, research-based programs focused on preserving and restoring families. As a national leader in children’s mental and behavioral health, we serve more than 47,000 youth, young people, and their families annually across 29 states and Washington, D.C. Our proven treatment models drive long-term success in child welfare, juvenile justice, and mental health systems. At Youth Villages, we do what works — partnering with others to expand our impact and advocate for meaningful, lasting change. We're seeking purpose-driven individuals who are passionate about making a difference. With a dedicated team of more than 5,000 staff, Youth Villages is committed to investing in and supporting our employees by offering opportunities to build a fulfilling career through professional growth, personal development, and a mission that matters— helping children and families live successfully. For more information, please visit www.youthvillages.org Program Overview: Youth Villages' residential programs in Tennessee and Georgia provide safe, nurturing environments for youth ages 6 to 17 with complex behavioral and mental health challenges. These programs are offered across three types of facilities—secure facilities, open campuses, and group homes—each designed to meet the individual needs of youth exhibiting a range of referral behaviors, including aggression, self-harm, suicidal ideations, and problem sexual behavior. Our residential campuses deliver an intensive treatment program that strikes a unique balance between structure and freedom, all while preparing youth for continued success outside of a residential setting. A key focus is to help each youth step down to the least restrictive treatment option possible by developing the skills they need to thrive in less structured environments through trauma-informed care, clinical interventions, life skills building, and recreation therapy (in selection locations). Most youth also attend fully accredited schools located on our campuses, ensuring their educational progress continues alongside therapeutic support.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a related program (required)
• Degrees that can be considered include: recreation therapy, parks and recreation, exercise science, psychology, and mental health
• Must have or be able to pass Lifeguard certification (required)
• Experience working with youth (required)
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent written, verbal, and oral skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
• Basic computer knowledge
• Ability to maintain a flexible schedule
• Applicants must be able to participate in physical interventions when necessary and frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, occasionally more than 100 pounds.
• Applicants are required to complete Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) and CPR trainings and pass an agility and strength evaluation.
• Applicants must possess a current, valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with experiential education, community recreation, wilderness therapy, rock climbing, yoga, personal fitness, art, or music
• Experience working with at-risk youth

Responsibilities

• Develops and facilitates recreation programs (including but not limited to music, dance, arts and crafts, cultural arts, nature study, swimming, social recreation and games, camping, etc.)
• Promotes and coordinates participation in clubs and organizations (including but not limited to student council, intramural sports leagues, other volunteer activities, etc.)
• Works with the residential treatment team to ensure that recreation is well-balanced, scheduled appropriately, and integrated with special services
• Maintains recreation equipment and consults with leadership for replacement of depleted equipment
• Oversees the use of canoeing and high ropes courses equipment and resident participation on applicable campus
• Introduces and trains Youth Villages staff on new program activities, equipment, and materials
• Completes daily documentation (such as contact notes, milieu notes, and precautionary notes) in an electronic medical record system (EMR)
• Performs other duties as assigned

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Prescription Drug Coverage and Vision
• 401(k)
• Time off: 2 week paid vacation (full-time) / 1 week paid vacation (part-time)
• 12 paid sick days per year
• 11 paid holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
• Mileage & Cell Phone Reimbursement (when applicable)
• Tuition reimbursement and licensure supervision
• Growth & development through continuous training
• Clinical and administrative advancement opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees