Adaptive Programs Instructor - PT

Njymca; New Jersey; On-site; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free membership

Discount on programming

Retirement fund access

Professional development opportunities

Employee resource networks

Job summary

Greater Somerset County YMCA is seeking a dedicated paraprofessional/ABA Therapist to plan and facilitate inclusive programs for individuals with special needs at our Somerset County location. You will work with the Adaptive Programs team to activate community partners and promote participation.

You will provide guidance to participants with developmental and/or physical disabilities, fostering confidence and social engagement through a variety of activities and events.

Qualifications

• Passion for working with individuals with special needs.
• Strong interpersonal skills and respectful communication.
• Creativity to design engaging inclusive programs.
• Experience with intellectual/developmental disabilities preferred.
• Ability to plan and coordinate activities for multiple participants.

Responsibilities

• Plan and facilitate diverse programs for special needs participants.
• Collaborate with Adaptive Programs Coordinator to engage community partners.
• Provide guidance and support promoting inclusion and active participation.
• Foster an encouraging atmosphere for exploration and confidence building.
• Organize social events to encourage interaction and engagement.
• Adapt activities to meet unique needs of each participant.

Skills

Empathy

Communication

Patience

Adaptability

Inclusive programming

Education

Experience with individuals with ID/DD preferred

Job description

Description

Greater Somerset County YMCA (GSCY) is a local nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. At GSCY, we focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, we ensure that we all have access to the opportunities, relationships and resources necessary to learn, grow and thrive. To learn more about GSCY, visit our website: http://www.gscymca.org

Requirements

Responsibilities

• Plan and facilitate a diverse range of programs for special needs children and adults, including fitness classes, art workshops, music appreciation sessions, cooking classes, and monthly social events.
• Collaborate with the Adaptive Programs Coordinator and/or Youth Programs Director to activate community partners to develop engaging and accessible programming that meets the needs and interests of participants.
• Provide guidance and support to individuals with developmental, behavioral, and/or physical disabilities, promoting inclusion and active participation.
• Foster a supportive and encouraging atmosphere where participants feel empowered to explore new activities and build confidence.
• Encourage social interaction and community engagement through organized events such as movie nights, paint and sip sessions, bingo games, and more.
• Adapt activities and teaching methods to accommodate the unique needs and abilities of each participant, ensuring a positive and inclusive experience for all.

Qualifications

• Passion for working with individuals with special needs and a genuine desire to make a difference in their lives.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to connect with people of all abilities in a compassionate and respectful manner.
• Creativity and flexibility to design engaging and inclusive programs that cater to a diverse range of interests and abilities.
• Experience working with individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities preferred. This role is perfect for a paraprofessional or ABA Therapist!
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to plan and coordinate multiple activities simultaneously.
• Must be dependable, patient, and enthusiastic about creating a supportive community for individuals with special needs.

Benefits

• FREE Individual Membership Access to any YMCA in the Nation.
• 10% Discount on most programming at Somerset Hills YMCA.
• Access to one of the leading retirement programs, the "Y Retirement Fund," from the first day of employment.
• Opportunities for professional development, mentoring, growth, and promotion throughout the YMCA Movement.
• Supportive and inclusive community for people of all backgrounds and access to Employee Resource Networks.

Greater Somerset County YMCA is a drug free work environment. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information who share our values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.