CUSR Youth Program Director

CHAMPAIGN PARK DISTRICT • Champaign, IL

22d • $19 - $20 • Onsite

About The Position

Step into a high-impact role that shapes the experience of youth and teens with disabilities across CU Special Recreation. You’ll direct daily operations for CU Special Recreation Summer Camp, Afterschool Programs, and year-round youth and teen initiatives, building safe, inclusive, and engaging environments where participants can thrive. If you love leading people, designing creative programs, and making a real difference in families’ lives, this is your kind of job.

Requirements

• Must be at least 21 years old.
• Leadership experience in youth programs.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• Strong communication, organization, and leadership skills.
• Ability to adapt quickly, problem-solve, and support participants with diverse needs.
• Ability to build strong relationships with families, staff, participants, and community members.
• Commitment to confidentiality, safety, and inclusive recreation.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Previous youth program leadership experience.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, participants, families, and the public.
• Enthusiasm for working with children and teens and a commitment to inclusive recreation.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to motivate diverse groups.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills to manage schedules, activities, and staff.
• Ability to adapt to changing needs and respond effectively to unexpected situations.
• Commitment to participant safety and well-being with an understanding of child development and disability-inclusive practices

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all daily operations for youth and teen CUSR programs, including Summer Camp and Afterschool Programs.
• Plan, implement, and adapt activities to meet diverse participant needs and ensure a positive, inclusive experience.
• Train, supervise, support, and evaluate part-time and seasonal staff to maintain high-quality program delivery.
• Ensure all safety procedures, emergency protocols, and site inspections are completed and followed.
• Maintain strong communication with families, staff, and the CUSR Youth & Teen Program Coordinator.
• Manage program logistics including scheduling, newsletters, weekly plans, attendance, incident reports, and participant documentation.
• Track budgets, purchase supplies responsibly, and maintain organized records.
• Promote welcoming, respectful, and inclusive program environments.
• Uphold confidentiality, professionalism, and Park District policies at all times.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 20% discount on qualified room and shelter/pavilion rentals for employees and immediate household members
• Free drink & popcorn at the Virginia Theatre when showing your Park District badge
• Posi Bucks appreciation rewards
• Impact Awards ($50 award for approved nominations)
• Keeva Keeling Outstanding Employee of the Year recognition
• Cell phone carrier discounts
• AFLAC group-rate voluntary benefit options
• SPOT Pet Insurance group discount

What This Job Offers

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