Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA) enriches the lives of children and adults with disabilities as a partnership of 17 Park Districts located within the northwest suburbs of Chicago. NWSRA provides outstanding recreation opportunities for people with disabilities within our partner Park Districts through weekly programs, adult day programs (PURSUIT), special events, summer day camps and inclusion in park district programs. NWSRA is a park district that serves people with disabilities.

Job Purpose: Plans, develops, monitors and coordinates programs of all types including weekly programs, clubs, special events, Leisure Education, camps, trips/overnights, Lightning Athletics and cooperative programs. Prepare and implement behavior management strategies when necessary, to ensure safe involvement in recreation programs by people with disabilities. Provide assistance and instruction to the participants when needed.

Summary of Duties: Working with the Manager of Special Recreation, demonstrate the ability to assess, plan, develop, implement and evaluate activity programs for recreation, leisure and therapeutic recreation programs. Demonstrate strong leadership qualities including: confidence, maturity, flexibility and professionalism. Demonstrate knowledge of disabling conditions and experience to show adaptability in working with people with special needs. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with employees of all levels, volunteers, parents & guardians, participants, park districts and school district personnel as well as members of the community. Ability to work independently, when necessary, to solve simple to complex problems, demonstrate dependability, promptness & punctuality and convey a positive attitude to others.

Qualifications: Graduate of an accredited college or university with BA/BS degree in Therapeutic Recreation or related field of study. Current National Council on Therapeutic Recreation Certification (CTRC) or the ability to become certified within one year of being hired. Have a valid Illinois Driver’s License and have the ability to attain an Illinois Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

To Apply: Online Application at www.nwsra.org/jobs. Must attach current resume.

For questions on this position please call, Darleen Negrillo - Superintendent of Administrative Services at 847-392-2848.