Champaign Urbana Special Recreation

Champaign Urbana Special Recreation

Salary Range $16.00 Hourly Position Type Part-time

Description

CUSR Program Team – Inclusion, Afterschool, Sports & Recreation Roles Champaign Park District – Part-Time 2 (Hours not to exceed 19 per week on average)

About the Job: CUSR (Champaign-Urbana Special Recreation) is hiring passionate and energetic individuals for a variety of part-time roles supporting inclusive recreation programs for individuals with disabilities. Whether you're leading activities, providing one-on-one support, assisting with sports programming, or creating a welcoming afterschool environment, you'll help ensure participants have a safe, enriching, and fun experience. These roles are ideal for those looking to make a direct impact through therapeutic recreation and inclusive community engagement.

During the interview process, you'll meet with CUSR Coordinators who will learn more about your experience, interests, and availability. Based on that conversation—and your preferences—they will determine the position and program area where you're most likely to thrive.

Payrate is determined by position and experience

*Please note that some positions may require you to work in Urbana. Applicant would need to be able to travel to other locations.

Summary of Responsibilities: All positions share core responsibilities centered around supporting individuals with disabilities in recreation settings. Duties include:

• Actively participating in and assisting with a wide variety of recreational programs such as aquatics, sports, crafts, community outings, and afterschool activities
• Providing one-on-one or group support to participants with disabilities
• Encouraging social engagement and inclusion among participants
• Supporting personal care needs such as feeding, toileting, and physical transfers as required
• Leading or assisting in program planning, setup, supervision, and cleanup
• Ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants
• Collaborating with program leads, parents, and coordinators to meet participant needs
• Following risk management procedures and enforcing safety protocols

Individual Positions Include:

• Inclusion Assistant : Works one-on-one or with small groups in general Park District programs to promote full inclusion and success.
• Support Staff : Assists Program Leads in delivering activities across a range of programs; ideal for those who want variety and flexibility.
• Afterschool Program Leader : Focuses on youth and teen engagement during afterschool hours through structured curriculum at Champaign and Urbana sites.
• Athletic Coach : Leads practices and games for participants with disabilities, often tied to Special Olympics sports seasons.

Why Work With Us? CUSR provides a welcoming, inclusive environment where your work truly matters. Whether you're exploring a career in therapeutic recreation, special education, social work, or youth programming—or simply want to give back—our team will support you with meaningful experience and professional training. You'll be part of a collaborative team that celebrates creativity, inclusion, and community service.

Benefits Summary:

• Paid training including CPR/First Aid, CPI, and specialized inclusion support
• Employee recognition awards and perks
• Flexible scheduling around school or other commitments

About the Champaign Park District: The Champaign Park District exists to enhance our community's quality of life through positive experiences in parks, recreation, and cultural arts. Through CUSR, we provide specialized recreation programs for individuals with disabilities while fostering an inclusive environment throughout our broader offerings. With over 400 employees and a deep commitment to service, we empower every staff member to make a difference.

Who This Position Is Ideal For: If you are compassionate, dependable, and enjoy working with individuals of all abilities, you'll thrive in these roles. Whether you're a high school or college student, recent grad, or working professional looking for a flexible way to give back, there's a place for you on the CUSR team. Apply today and be part of something impactful!

Qualifications

Minimum Age Requirements:

• Most positions: Must be at least 16 years old
• Program Leads, Coaches, and Afterschool Leaders: 18 years old required; 21 preferred for those who may transport participants

Education & Experience:

• Interest in working with individuals with disabilities is required across all roles
• Direct experience working with people with disabilities is preferred (2+ years for many roles)
• Program Lead/Coach positions require 1+ year of experience leading or developing activities
• Afterschool Program Leader experience in youth activities (e.g., crafts, cooking, outdoor play) is preferred
• Experience in sports or fitness instruction is preferred for Athletic Coaches

Other Requirements:

• Ability to adapt activities for individuals of varying abilities
• Must be comfortable assisting with personal care (e.g., feeding, toileting, transfers)
• Ability to demonstrate discretion and professionalism, especially regarding confidential participant information
• Must have reliable transportation to reach program sites in Champaign and Urbana
• Availability to work evenings and weekends as needed
• For Program Leads and Support Staff: Commitment to a minimum number of programs per season is expected

Certifications/Training (can be obtained through the Park District):

• CPR, AED, and First Aid
• Heads Up Concussion training
• Mandated reporter training
• Harassment prevention and bloodborne pathogen training
• Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) training
• Driver training and vehicle operation test (if applicable)