Job Description

Job Location CUSR Center - Champaign, IL 61821 Position Type Full-time Salary Range $51,909.00 - $72,673.00 Salary

Champaign Park District – Full-Time, Exempt

About the Job:

The Champaign Urbana Special Recreation (CU Special Recreation) Youth and Teen Program Coordinator leads the design, planning, and delivery of meaningful recreation programs for youth and teens with disabilities. This role oversees after school programs, day camps, school day-out activities, special events, and community outings, creating fun, safe, and inclusive opportunities that build skills and connections. You’ll also play a key role in shaping new programs to meet community needs while mentoring staff and ensuring every participant has a positive experience.

of Responsibilities:

• Plan, coordinate, and evaluate youth and teen recreation programs including camps, afterschool, school day-out, outings, and special events.
• Develop new programs based on community needs and interests.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate part-time staff, seasonal staff, and volunteers.
• Create lesson plans and ensure program quality, safety, and adaptability.
• Manage program budgets, prepare reports, and track outcomes.
• Implement and monitor behavior management strategies for safe participation.
• Partner with schools and community organizations to enhance outreach and engagement.
• Drive and maintain agency vehicles while transporting participants as needed.
• Serve as a CPR instructor and assist with fundraising, advisory board duties, and committee work.
• Represent CU Special Recreation and the Park District at community events, presentations, and trainings.

Why Work With Us?

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a difference in the lives of youth and teens with disabilities while growing your leadership, programming, and community engagement skills. You’ll join a supportive team that values creativity, collaboration, and inclusion, with the chance to see firsthand the impact of your work on participants and families.

Benefits

Summary:

Full-time employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (multiple plan options)
• IMRF pension participation with employer contribution
• Paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, and personal days
• Tuition reimbursement for job-related courses
• Free facility memberships for employees and household family members
• Discounts on rentals, concessions, and Park District programs
• Employee recognition programs
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Voluntary benefits including AFLAC, pet insurance, and additional life insurance

About the Champaign Park District:

With over 400 employees, the Champaign Park District is dedicated to creating positive, inclusive experiences that enrich our community. CU Special Recreation, a division of the Champaign Park District in partnership with Urbana Park District, provides essential recreation services to individuals with disabilities, promoting independence, friendship, and fun through accessible programs and events.

Who This Position Is Ideal For:

This role is perfect for someone passionate about inclusive recreation who thrives on building programs that make a real impact. If you’re a creative planner, strong leader, and enthusiastic advocate for youth and teens with disabilities, this position offers the chance to combine your professional skills with meaningful community service.

The Champaign Park District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employees are required to comply with our equal opportunity and harassment laws, policies, and procedures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation, Therapeutic Recreation, or equivalent degree or five (5) years of experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience working with individuals with disabilities
• At least two (2) years of successful experience in recreation programming
• Certification or acquiring certification within one (1) year of hire, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention by the Crisis Prevention Institute, First Aid and CPR.
• Certification by National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or eligibility to sit for exam and earn certificate within one (1) year of hire is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to market agency’s program and/or events using a variety of methods.
• Demonstrated knowledge of disabling conditions and experience in planning a wide range of recreation activities
• Demonstrated ability to organize, budget, plan, and implement projects with multiple deadlines
• Demonstrated management skills in staff supervision
• Ability to create lesson plans and evaluate lesson plans for quality and adaptability
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Computer skills in Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office Suite or similar programs
• Valid Illinois Driver’s License with clean driving record