Description
Reports to: Recreation Supervisor
Location: Varied
Part-Time/Non-Exempt
Benefits: Non-Eligible

Summary
The inclusion aide is to assist in nurturing and implementation of activities for individuals with disabilities in a recreational setting in accordance with SWSRA’s mission and vision. This includes assisting individuals with peer interaction and group participation with their peers. Inclusion aides are under the direct supervision of Recreation Supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Preferred: Minimum of High School Diploma

  • Preferred: Experience working in a recreational setting with individuals with disabilities

  • Must hold a valid Illinois driver’s license with good driving record

  • Must pass pre-employment physical and drug screen within 3 days of contingent offer of employment

  • Must pass a criminal background checks in compliance with Illinois state statute (70 ILCS 1205/8-23)

  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite applications including Word and Excel

  • Must be CPR/First Aid Certified or obtain within 90 days of hire

  • Red Cross WSI and Lifeguard Certification preferred; not required

  • Must complete attend/complete all required trainings prior to start of each season

Essential Job Duties

  1. Active involvement in the inclusion and implementation of participants in member district programs.

  2. Working with staff to provide the necessary adaptations or accommodations for participants to be successful in the park district environment.

  3. Assist with the set-up, clean-up of materials needed for programming; may involve transporting, loading and un-loading of materials.

  4. Assist member district staff in the supervision of participants at all times during programming, discipline and maintenance of facility equipment, space and supplies.

  5. Must be knowledgeable of the specific needs of the participants and provide appropriate supports during activities accordingly.

  6. Communicate with other program staff to ensure the needs of the inclusion participant are being met.

  7. Report any problems or concerns to the Recreation Supervisor or Superintendent of Recreation and the Member District Staff.

  8. When applicable, assist Program Leader with medication distribution in accordance with SWSRA Safety Manual.

  9. Facilitate and encourage positive peer relationships within the group and motivate both participants and staff to make those individuals feel successful.

  10. Collaboration with Recreation Supervisor and/or Superintendent of Recreation in the development and implementation of a behavior management system.

  11. Responsible for appropriately managing and documenting behaviors for all participants, following the Agency Code of Conduct policy. Communicate participant behaviors and/or any other relevant issues with the Program Leader.

  12. Assist participant as needed with personal care such as feeding, toileting, etc.

  13. Required to be in the pool, within arm’s length of participants at the pool for close supervision.

  14. Completion of paperwork and documentation assigned by supervisor.

  15. Attend all meetings, in-services, and trainings that are required by SWSRA and/or the member district staff.

  16. Must be familiar where to locate First Aid/CPR Supplies within member district facilities and be prepared to administer first aid/CPR to injured participants.

  17. Must provide excellent customer service to participants and parents, communicating any changes or updates in a timely manner.

  18. All SWSRA employees are mandated reporters.

  19. Safely operate vehicle when transporting individuals on activities and whenever operating a vehicle during work time.

  20. Perform other duties applicable to individual’s programming and the needs of SWSRA as assigned by supervisor and/or Executive Director. 

Environmental Conditions

  1. Is subject to flexible hours including split shifts or varied hours including morning, afternoon, evenings and weekends.

  2. Must be able to work in indoor and outdoor environments

  3. Must be able to work or attend “overnight” programs/trips/conferences etc.

  4. Must be willing and able to drive all Agency vehicles, including 15 passenger lift vans.

  5. Sits, stands, walks, bends, lifts and moves intermittently during working hours.

  6. Able to lift and transfer individuals in and out of wheelchairs, and lift equipment.

  7. Must have ability to work and communicate with people under stressful situations.

  8. May be subject to hostile and emotionally upset individuals with physical behaviors, staff, family members and general public.

  9. Must be able to follow verbal and written directions

  10. Must demonstrate emotional stability.

  11. Must be able to adequately respond to the needs of individuals with disabilities.

  12. Must exhibit good problem solving ability and good judgment in keeping with the mission of the Agency.

  13. May be exposed to infectious diseases, odors, dust, etc. throughout the day.

  14. Work location may change with little or no notice.

  15. May experience frequent interruptions and varying levels of noise.

Inclusion Aide