Community Program Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Description

Position: Community Program Coordinator

Job Type: Full-Time or Part-Time opportunities available

Calendar: Community Calendar

Qualifications: A bachelor's degree in a healthcare field, such as recreational therapy, recreation and fitness, child life specialist, rehabilitation science, psychology, art or music therapy, or health education, with relevant certifications such as CTRS, CCLS, or equivalent. Some programs may accept an associate degree, depending on work experience-experienced professionals with a valid driver's license. 

Salary: $50,000-$70,000 annually

Description

Do you want to work for an organization that is dedicated to creating best practice learning environments to increase independence, and improve communication and socially appropriate behaviors for individuals on the spectrum? Can you see yourself as part of an environment that strives to raise the quality of educational supports for children and adults with autism? Then Turning Pointe Autism Foundation is the place for you!

Turning Pointe Autism Foundation is looking for someone to be responsible for the development, coordination, and facilitation of community-based programs that promote social connection, recreation, learning, family engagement, and community inclusion for individuals with disabilities and their families. This position works collaboratively with participants, families, community partners, and organizational staff to create meaningful opportunities for engagement and support. The Community Program Coordinator is expected to maintain a flexible schedule, including evening and weekend hours, to support community events, family programs, and other organizational initiatives.

In support of its team members, Turning Pointe Autism Foundation offers PTO, medical, dental, and vision plans, pet insurance, HSA, FSA, EAP, life insurance, short-term disability and participation in a Simple IRA with company match.

Essential Functions:

• Develop, coordinate, and facilitate community-based programs, events, and activities for individuals with disabilities and their families.
• Plan and implement programs that promote social engagement, recreation, skill development, community participation, and family support.
• Organize and facilitate family networking opportunities, support groups, caregiver education events, and community resource connections.
• Coordinate and lead playgroups, social groups, recreational activities, camps, workshops, and special events.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with participants, families, community organizations, businesses, and other stakeholders.
• Identify community needs and develop new programming opportunities that align with the organization's mission and strategic goals.
• Collaborate with internal departments and external partners to expand and enhance community programming.
• Recruit, coordinate, and support volunteers, community partners, and event participants as needed.
• Maintain program schedules, registrations, attendance records, and required documentation.
• Monitor participant engagement and program effectiveness and make recommendations for program improvement.
• Assist families in accessing community resources, supports, and services when appropriate.
• Support marketing and outreach efforts to increase awareness and participation in community programs.
• Ensure participant safety and adherence to organizational policies and procedures during all community activities and events.
• Demonstrate flexibility in working evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays to support program implementation and community events.
• Participate in organizational meetings, training, fundraising events, and community outreach initiatives as assigned.
• Perform other work and responsibilities as assigned.

Turning Pointe is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you require additional support or assistance, please contact sodoherty@turningpointeaf.org.

*The salary range listed for this position is a guideline and may vary. The salary is based on the role's requirements, the candidate's experience, and other relevant factors. The final compensation offer may vary depending on qualifications, experience, and geographic location. Salary details will be discussed during the interview process.

Requirements

Experience & Skills:

• A proven track record as a team player
• Ability to remain calm and organized in fast-paced work environment
• Ability to communicate pertinent information to the team
• Ability to implement behavior support plans

Preferred:

• Experience working in an educational, therapeutic, or similar environment with students impacted by autism or other developmental disabilities
• Knowledge of the basic principles of Applied Behavior Analysis

Physical Demands:

• May include lifting and supporting up to 50 pounds
• Implement crisis protocols, which may include physical crisis management procedures
• May be required to bend, stoop, and kneel
• Ability to work at a desk, conference table or in meetings of various configurations
• Ability to stand and circulate for extended periods of time
• Moderate to high stress levels
• Daily contact with students, teachers, and school staff
• Regular contact with parents, community members and outside agency personnel
• May be exposed to contact with individuals displaying physically aggressive, self-abusive, or socially undesirable behavior