Adult Day Training Program Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Since 1954, The Arc Gateway has been dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As a trusted non-profit organization serving the greater Pensacola area, we offer life-enhancing programs that empower those we support to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential. Our mission is rooted in celebrating abilities, fostering independence, and creating meaningful opportunities for every individual we serve.

SUMMARY:

The ADT Program Assistant – Recreation is a direct support professional who plans and leads recreation classes for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The employee adapts activities to participants’ interests, abilities, support needs, and Person-Centered Plan goals, while providing the supervision, personal assistance, documentation, and other direct support expected of ADT staff. Activities promote choice, movement, social connection, skill development, and enjoyment in a safe and welcoming setting.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Recreation Classes and Participation:

• Plan, prepare, and lead scheduled recreation classes and group activities, including adapted games, movement, stretching, dance, modified sports, and other activities appropriate to participants’ interests and abilities.
• Adapt equipment, pace, rules, instructions, and participation options for differing mobility, cognitive, sensory, and communication needs. 
• Offer meaningful choices and support participation without requiring everyone to perform the same activity.
• Use verbal, visual, and hands-on prompts within training and individual support plans. Encourage cooperation, social interaction, confidence, and independence.
• Set up and put away equipment; inspect activity areas and materials for hazards; maintain an accessible, organized space. Coordinate supplies and activity plans with the manager.

Direct Support and Safety:

• Provide active supervision during classes, transitions, meals, and outings; follow each participant’s Person
• Centered Plan, implementation plan, and applicable safety instructions.
• Assist participants with personal care, toileting, mobility, and other daily needs according to individual plans,
• training, and program procedures.
• Observe signs of distress, fatigue, seizure activity, injury, or changes in condition; respond under the 
• participant’s plan and emergency procedures, and promptly notify the appropriate supervisor.
• Use respectful communication and approved, nonreactive de-escalation and support strategies. Protect
• participant dignity, privacy, rights, and freedom of choice.
• Support community outings, special events, transportation duties, and other ADT classes or program activities
• as assigned and appropriately trained.

Documentation and Teamwork:

• Complete attendance, service and training records, activity notes, and incident reports accurately and on time
• under program procedures.
• Share relevant observations about engagement, progress, barriers, and support needs with the manager and 
• team; collaborate with families and other professionals through appropriate program channels.
• Attend required training and staff meetings, maintain required certifications, and follow agency policies and
• emergency procedures. Perform other related duties as assigned.

  QUALIFICATIONS :

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to  pass Level 2 fingerprint background check, (), Dept. of Children and Families abuse registry check, and local law enforcement check, Affidavit of Good Moral Character.
• Must pass a drug screen
• Maintain punctual attendance and report to work on time for all scheduled shifts.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE : 

Candidates should bring a high level of energy, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for engaging with participants in a way that fosters a supportive and empowering atmosphere.

Key Skills and Attributes :

• Must have a High School Diploma or GED
• Must be 18 years of age
• Experience supporting adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities and experience leading recreational activities preferred; related education or training in recreation, adaptive physical activity, education, or a similar area is helpful.
• Ability to plan inclusive activities, give clear instructions, adapt quickly, maintain active supervision, and work effectively with participants and coworkers.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to build strong relationships with participants, colleagues, and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated patience, empathy, and cultural sensitivity when working with diverse populations.
• Flexibility and adaptability to respond to evolving needs and manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced setting.
• A strong commitment to upholding the principles of dignity, respect, and inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Work is generally performed in an ADT facility and on community outings, typically during daytime weekday hours. The position requires standing, walking, bending, reaching, demonstrating and participating in activities, handling recreation equipment, and assisting participants with mobility and personal care. Assistance and lifting must follow individual plans, training, safe practices, and available equipment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals to perform essential functions.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

• Successful completion of Core Competencies, Zero Tolerance, HIV, and HIPAA, CPR/First Aid, and any other required training. (This training is provided by the agency).

Work Schedule - Full Time - Monday - Friday - 7am - 2pm

Rate of pay per hour is $15.75