Recreational Associate (Recreational Specialist)

Vocational Instruction Project•New York, NY

About The Position

VIP Community Services is dedicated to changing lives and transforming the community by providing a continuum of services to individuals with histories of chemical dependency. Its client-centered approach supports people in taking charge of their lives and pursuing self-sufficiency. The Recreational Specialist conducts recreation activities with groups in public, private, or volunteer agencies or recreation facilities. The role organizes and promotes activities such as arts and crafts, sports, games, music, dramatics, social recreation, camping, and hobbies, taking into account the needs and interests of individual participants. Working with an interdisciplinary team, the specialist develops and implements life-skills and recreational programming, supports client engagement, and connects residents with community recreation and cultural resources. The position reports to the Recreational Coordinator.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least one year of experience working directly with psychiatrically disabled or addicted individuals.
At least one year of experience providing services in a human services position or in customer service.
Experience providing recreation to the relevant population.
Experience developing programs or events that engage vulnerable populations in meaningful leisure activities, including arts, exercise, personal growth, and stress management.
Knowledge of case management databases and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional shifts associated with a department operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including weekend days and evenings.
Good interpersonal skills, maturity, and reliability.
Comfort with crisis intervention.
Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
Must possess sight, hearing, and digital senses, or use prostheses that enable the essential job functions to be completed.
Schedule flexibility is required.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree or equivalent training.

Responsibilities

Work with an interdisciplinary team to design and implement Life Skills groups, including budgeting, meal planning, activities of daily living, shopping, exercise, and arts and crafts.
Plan, develop, and implement strategies and programs to facilitate client engagement in recreational activities.
Escort clients on trips, outings, and field trips, and coordinate trips for residents.
Inform social services staff about clients’ participation or lack of participation in recreational events.
Report clients’ observed behavior and willingness to participate in planned activities to the Recreational Coordinator.
Solicit and manage outside donations of books and clothing for clients’ use.
Develop connections with external recreational programs and facilities.
Act as a liaison between the site and community-based recreational resources.
Assist with planning and organizing special site events.
Maintain contact with museums, theaters, sporting events, and other cultural programs and activities to support client awareness and attendance.
Complete and maintain documentation of all group activities.
Maintain an inventory of recreation equipment and items.
Attend staff meetings, case conferences, supervisory sessions, and in-service training.
Perform other duties as assigned by supervisory staff.