Therapeutic Program Assistant I - Adult Day Programming

At NSSRA, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to play. Formed in 1970 with that goal in mind, we were the first Special Recreation Association in the country, offering programs and services for children, teens and adults with disabilities. We are similar to a park district, however we only serve residents in our partner communities with special needs.

Fifty years later, we serve approximately 1,600 individuals with disabilities throughout the year in the northern suburbs of Chicago. We’re all about creating an environment of belonging through play, and we want you to be a part of our team!

ABOUT THE JOB

NSSRA provides Adult Day Programming for individuals with disabilities age 22 and older. NSSRA’s Adult Day Program, ELA, was created to enhance the quality of life and offer well-rounded daytime programming options for adults with disabilities while providing a flexible schedule for families. ELA’s core areas are Independent Living & Continuing Education, Communication & Socialization, Recreation & Leisure and Community Integration.

Program Assistants are responsible for working with adults with disabilities in daily recreation programs. This includes providing hands-on support for program activities, to lifting and transferring and assisting with activities of daily living. Program Assistants are dedicated individuals who demonstrate creativity, enthusiasm, and initiative. Becoming a Program Assistant is a great way to contribute your talents, learn new job skills and build meaningful relationships. In this role, you are responsible for the following tasks:

• Actively engage and supervise individuals with disabilities.
• Ensure the safety of participants during recreation events, transportation, transition times, etc.
• Communicate professionally and consistently with participants, parents, fellow staff and the general public when needed.
• Submit timely reports, evaluations, and time sheets, maintaining accurate and complete records.
• Fulfill other duties as assigned.

ABOUT YOU

• To be an Adult Day Program Assistant you must be 18 years of age or older.
• It is preferred that applicants have or are working towards a degree from an accredited university in Therapeutic Recreation or related field.
• Equivalent experience working with individuals with disabilities may be substituted.
• Certification in CPR and First Aid must be obtained within the first three months of employment.

THE FINE PRINT
Program Assistants are required to complete an annual driver record verification, drug test, physical and lift assessment.

This is a part-time, year-round position. Hours are 8:30 am - 3:30 pm, 5 days per week (Monday Through Friday). When committing to work the program you must be able to work all scheduled days and attend all required meetings. Reliable transportation is required to ensure attendance at all scheduled programs.

Pay is $19.00 to $23.00 per hour, dependent on qualifications. A limited benefit package is available for this part-time position which includes: vacation days, paid holidays, defined pension plan and wellness program.