Manager of Child Safety, Inclusion and Behavior Management

Scope of Responsibilities

• Work with the Director of Risk Management to serve as the internal support contact for the Association for all child safety initiatives, accommodation requests, and behavior management strategies.
• Develop policies focusing the organization on providing a safe environment and safe operations for all youth and vulnerable adults in the Association's programs and spaces.
• Ensure the training of all staff members and volunteers in abuse prevention.
• Lead Praesidium accreditation efforts.
• Provide guidance related to disability-inclusion best practices pursuant to the ADA.
• Afford guidance and support for behavioral situations in child programs from branch/camp staff.
• Develop behavior support services policies.
• Identify and coordinate professional development training opportunities for branch/camp staff including coaching and consulting on behavior support and classroom strategies.
• Utilize a restorative approach in coaching staff and supporting youth, including building practices to support youth success in programming and, when necessary, reintegrate children into programming.
• Prepare reports as requested.
• Recommend supplies and equipment which are associated with program assignments and responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Required Education: B.A/B.S. degree or equivalent from an accredited program in special education, therapeutic recreation or recreation with a therapeutic emphasis along with practical experience in therapeutic recreation programming. In the alternative, graduate from an accredited college or university with a B.A. or B.S. in a related field, and practical experience in therapeutic recreation programming.
• CTRS certification with the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification is required or must be attained within two (2) years of hire. If certification in a related field is more applicable because of the academic background of the employee, certification is required or must be attained within two (2) years of hire.
• Minimum of six (6) years full time experience planning and conducting recreation programs for people with disabilities and facilitating inclusion.
• Must demonstrate knowledge of disabilities and have six (6) or more years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, including planning a wide range of recreation activities.
• Demonstrate passion and commitment to the Association's mission.
• Demonstrate enthusiasm, interpersonal skills, verbal and written communication skills, and ability to work effectively with people with disabilities, Association staff, parents, guardians, participants, school district personnel, community agencies, as well as members of the general public.
• Be able to work independently with minimal direction, have demonstrated problem-solving skills, influence others, and demonstrate consistent, positive interactions and communications with others.
• Plan work effectively to meet goals and effectively manage multiple, competing priorities.
• Knowledge of current standards of professional practice and ability to apply these standards to daily work.
• Ability to travel locally using own vehicle throughout the Chicagoland area (city and suburbs) with current, valid driver's license.
• Experience in the recruitment, training, supervision, and evaluation of seasonal or part-time employees is preferred.