Manager, Life Enrichment Programs (IDD - Adult Day Services)

Description Inspire Growth. Lead Innovation. Create Meaningful Life Experiences. At Aspire, we believe every person deserves opportunities to learn, grow, connect, and thrive. We are seeking a passionate and experienced Manager, Life Enrichment Programs to lead a team dedicated to creating innovative, engaging, and enriching experiences for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This is an exciting leadership opportunity for a collaborative professional who is energized by developing people, building high-performing teams, and creating programs that foster independence, belonging, personal growth, and community engagement. About the Role The Manager, Life Enrichment Programs provides leadership and operational oversight for Aspire's dynamic, state-of-the-art Academy programming. This position leads a team of Facilitators and Program Leaders responsible for designing and delivering meaningful learning opportunities, life enrichment experiences, and community-based activities that support each person's goals, interests, and aspirations. Through coaching, mentorship, and operational excellence, the Manager cultivates an environment where both participants and team members can thrive. What You'll Do Lead and Develop High-Performing Teams Supervise, coach, mentor, and develop a team of Facilitators/Program Leaders. Lead hiring, onboarding, training, scheduling, payroll oversight, and performance management activities. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. Partner closely with a co-manager to strengthen team performance and program success. Drive Exceptional Participant Experiences Ensure every person supported is treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. Promote individualized opportunities that encourage self-expression, skill development, and meaningful engagement. Support participants in exploring personal interests and achieving individual goals. Ensure Program Excellence Oversee implementation and monitoring of participant goals and support plans. Evaluate program effectiveness and team performance to ensure high-quality outcomes. Ensure accurate, timely, and compliant documentation and reporting. Manage Daily Operations Lead the development of innovative, multi-modal learning and enrichment activities. Assess program needs and coordinate staffing to ensure effective service delivery. Provide direct support, facilitate activities, and assist with transportation when needed. Communicate operational updates, challenges, and opportunities with Academy leadership. Collaborate Across the Organization Partner with people supported, families, and interdisciplinary teams to create meaningful experiences and successful outcomes. Serve as a subject matter expert and provide training to staff as assigned. Participate on committees and contribute to organizational initiatives and program advancement. Maintain compliance with all quality, regulatory, safety, and participant rights standards. Requirements Bachelor's degree in a related field. Minimum two (2) years of experience working directly with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Minimum one (1) year of supervisory experience. Valid driver's license with a good driving record. Minimum age of 21 years. Strong computer proficiency, including Microsoft Word, Excel (formulas, graphs, and pivot tables), PowerPoint, and Outlook. Preferred Qualifications QIDP Certification or eligibility for certification. Leadership Competencies The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to: Achieve Results by consistently delivering high-quality outcomes. Build Effective Teams that leverage diverse strengths and perspectives. Cultivate Innovation through creative problem-solving and continuous improvement. Make Quality Decisions that advance organizational goals and participant outcomes. Tackle Tough Issues with confidence, professionalism, and integrity. Professional Skills & Attributes Outstanding verbal and written communication skills. Strong emotional intelligence and conflict-resolution abilities. Ability to influence and collaborate effectively across teams. Excellent organizational and project management skills. Cultural competence and experience working with a variety of backgrounds. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrated adaptability, accountability, and professionalism. Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and building trusting relationships. Why Aspire? At Aspire, your leadership creates opportunities for people to discover new interests, build meaningful relationships, strengthen skills, and experience a true sense of belonging. You'll join a mission-driven organization that values innovation, collaboration, respect, and the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life. If you're ready to lead with purpose, inspire others, and make a lasting impact every day, we invite you to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr Aspire of Illinois