Weekend Recreational Specialist, RTF

Child Center Residential Treatment Facility • Brooklyn, NY

5d

About The Position

The Weekend Activity Specialist supports the therapeutic goals of The Child Center of NY’s Residential Treatment Facility (RTF) by providing engaging, skill-based weekend workshops and activities for youth ages 12–18. The specialist delivers culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and age-appropriate programming that supports healing, creativity, and personal growth in a safe, welcoming environment.

The Child Center RTF is a coeducational program serving young people who have experienced multiple psychiatric hospital placements or involvement with the juvenile justice system. It provides individualized support through a multidisciplinary team that includes clinical coordinators, psychiatric providers, a pediatrician, nursing staff, and youth advocates.

Requirements

• Must be over 21 years of age.
• Background in arts, wellness, recreation, education, or youth development.
• Experience facilitating workshops or engaging youth in group settings.
• Commitment to trauma-informed care and strengths-based approaches.
• Clear communication, empathy, and flexibility in dynamic environments.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate interactive weekend workshops, such as art, music, dance, mindfulness, fitness, creative writing, or cultural expression.
• Use a specific skillset to create accessible, therapeutic, and empowering activities for youth with complex trauma histories.
• Foster a safe space for emotional expression and group engagement through structured activities.
• Coordinate with unit staff to ensure safe supervision and therapeutic framing.
• Support youth recruitment in collaboration with unit leaders and the social work team.
• Provide post-session feedback on attendance, participation, and impact after each session.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed