Recreational Therapist

Youth Development Institute (YDI) is a private not-for-profit therapeutic rehabilitation and treatment facility for disadvantaged and troubled youth ages 12-18 years of age, providing intensive and specialized treatment so youth may mature into responsible and successful adults. YDI is looking for a Recreational Therapist to join our team.  The Recreational Therapist will interact with youth and assist them in developing appropriate recreational and leisure activities that support a healthy lifestyle. Our youth need an outgoing, and caring person who can plan, implement, and provide recreational therapy activities tailored to their needs, interests, and abilities. The overall goal is to improve our youths’ cognitive, emotional, and social wellbeing and independence through engaging recreational therapy activities.

Essential Functions:

·         Demonstrate knowledge of best leisure and recreational activities for youth

·         Support the therapeutic value of recreational activities.

·         Apply evidence-based age-appropriate recreational therapy techniques in all activities.

·         Adapt activities as needed using modifications and accommodations to meet the needs, interests, and abilities of youth.

·         Motivate youth to participate in a variety of therapeutic recreational activities.

·         Use resources to accommodate cultural needs and to bridge differences.

·         Plan and manage activities, schedules, and documentation.

·         Evaluate and document youth progress in recreational therapy goals.

·         Advocate for children and youth.

·         Build relationships and trust with youth and staff.

·         Work collaboratively and collegially with all staff.

·            Work independently and in teams.

·         Implement effective verbal and written communication skills.

·         Objective in handling difficult situations

·         Strong assessment skills

·         Stay up to date with new recreational pedagogy and practices.

·         Microsoft Office computer skills

Required Qualifications:

·         A bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university with a major in social sciences, therapeutic recreation or recreation/leisure preferred.

·         CTRS preferred

·         At least two years direct experience working with children and adolescents in a therapeutic environment.

·         Possession of and the ability to retain a current, valid state-issued driver’s license.

·         Must be a minimum of 21 years of age.

·         Full-time evening shift position

·         Can work evenings, weekends, and holidays.

·         Possession of a fingerprint clearance card or the ability to obtain one.

·         Successful completion of the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify)

Benefits:

·         Salary: Up to $28.00 per hour (DOE)

·         Paid time off (Vacation, Sick, PTO)

·         Paid holidays

·         Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance

·         Life Insurance

·         Retirement plan

·         On-site parking

·         Paid meals

·         Staff training