HISRA Summer Daze Leader

The Heart of Illinois Special Recreation Association (HISRA) is a cooperative effort of the Peoria, Morton, Chillicothe, and Washington Park Districts. Its mission is to provide quality recreation programs and services to individuals with disabilities and special needs. HISRA has several openings that center around hands-on experiences working with these individuals. HISRA’s FOCUS group is an adult day program for individuals 18 . They spend their days cooking, volunteering, socializing with friends, and exploring the community.

DUTIES:Under the general supervision of the HISRA Program Coordinator, the HISRA Art Instructor is responsible for:

• Develop and implement diverse and engaging activities suitable for the interests and abilities of teen and young adult camp participants.
• Effectively manage the camp environment, employing classroom management techniques to ensure a positive and inclusive atmosphere.
• Establish and maintain excellent relationships with campers, parents, and fellow staff members.
• Demonstrate adaptability to handle last-minute changes of plans, ensuring a seamless and positive experience for campers and staff.
• Possess excellent communication and customer service skills to effectively interact with participants, parents, and co-workers.
• Work collaboratively with other camp staff to coordinate and integrate activities into the overall camp program, contributing to a cohesive and enriching experience.
• Keep records of participants' progress, achievements, as well as incident report forms, sharing insights with camp coordinators and relevant team members.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of campers at all times, implementing appropriate safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Follow all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed and support all aspects of the Peoria Park District and HISRA’s safety program.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Bend, stoop and sit for period of time. Ability to lift up to 25 pounds

Experience:

• Previous experience working with children and young adults with disabilities, demonstrating a genuine understanding and appreciation for their unique needs.
• Previous experience in classroom management, with the ability to create a positive and inclusive environment.
• Must be at least 21 years old.

Knowledge and Ability:

• Valid driver's license and willingness to undergo a driving check and training.
• Physical ability to safely perform lifts and transfers of children and young adults with disabilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with participants, parents, and co-workers.
• Enthusiastic, patient, and flexible approach to working in a camp setting.
• Day camp or classroom management experience, or experience leading similar programs strongly desired.
• Proven experience in behavior management, preferably in a similar role.
• Strong organizational skills, with current or previous experience working in Google Workspace.
• Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers.

The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.