Temporary Therapeutic Recreation Leader

City of Alexandria•Alexandria, VA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Alexandria is seeking a Temporary Therapeutic Recreation Leader to help individuals with disabilities be included in general recreational programs. This role involves working with participants to develop skills, manage challenging behaviors, and foster independent participation. The leader will also collaborate with staff to create a positive, inclusive environment, actively participate in all program activities, assist with activity adaptations, and facilitate social interaction. The position requires planning, coordinating, and leading recreation activities, providing assistance with program operations, and evaluating activities. Additionally, the role involves providing training and direction to temporary staff, volunteers, and summer youth employees. This position operates under general guidelines and involves initiating program activities with organized groups. The employee will assist supervisors with the management of facilities and specialized program areas, including full inclusion and one-on-one services. General supervision is received from a Therapeutic Recreation Manager or a Regional Program Director, with incumbents having latitude in implementing programs within their assigned area of responsibility. The work schedule is Monday – Friday, available between 2 p.m. – 6 p.m., in conjunction with Alexandria City Public Schools. Enthusiasm, flexibility, excellent communication skills, and phenomenal customer service are necessary for success.

Requirements

Two-Year College Degree
Good knowledge of the social and recreational sciences, including the theory, principles, and practices of therapeutic recreation
Ability to acquire appropriate certification in CPR and First Aid within the first three months of employment
Completion of a minimum 40-hour training program consistent with Department of Medical Assistance Services requirement or Nursing Assistant Certification
Possess a valid driver's license issued by the State of their residence
Pre-employment drug test
Criminal records check
TB test
Enthusiasm, flexibility, excellent communication skills and phenomenal customer service are necessary to be successful in this position.
Good knowledge of RecTrac, Munis, Kronos, and Microsoft Office

Nice To Haves

Experience in therapeutic recreation, preferably in a community recreation setting or directly related field working with individuals of all abilities
Have flexibility to accommodate a varied work schedule which may include working at short notice, evenings, weekends and around holidays.
Have a deep desire and interest in working with a diverse population daily.
Must have a desire and interest in working with individuals with disabilities.

Responsibilities

Help individuals with disabilities be included in general recreational programs.
Work with participants to develop skills, manage challenging behaviors, and foster independent participation.
Work with staff to create a positive, inclusive environment.
Actively participate in all program activities.
Assist with the adaptation of activities.
Facilitate social interaction.
Plan, coordinate, and lead recreation activities.
Provide assistance with program operation.
Plan and evaluate activities, including scheduling appropriate groups at designated dates and times.
Ensure all materials needed for activities are safe, clean, and available.
Provide training and direction to temporary staff, volunteers, and summer youth employees.
Initiate program activities with organized groups.
Assist supervisor with management of facility and specialized program area including full inclusion and one-on-one services.
Plan, develop, and implement quarterly strategic Program Plans for the Therapeutic Recreation Program operation.
Conduct structured enrichment and group activities.
Develop measures for each program/activity to evaluate success and adjust as necessary.
Lead activities that are inclusive, non-competitive, and foster positive engagement.
Foster peer friendships in an inclusive setting.
Work with team members to create a positive, inclusive environment for all.
Be responsive, professional, courteous, and accountable in all interactions.
Safeguard program participants always.
Ensure all safety precautions and guidelines are followed.
Participate in staff meetings, in-service trainings, and workshops.
Perform related work as required.