Inclusion Companions

Howard County Government; Columbia (MD); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking compassionate individuals to serve as inclusion companions for individuals with disabilities. This rewarding role involves actively supervising and assisting participants in recreational programs, ensuring their needs are met while promoting social inclusion. Candidates will work closely with program directors to adapt activities and maintain a safe, engaging environment. With opportunities for growth based on experience levels, this position is perfect for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Join a supportive team dedicated to fostering inclusive recreation experiences!

Qualifications

• Ability to communicate effectively with individuals with disabilities.
• Must be 16 years old or older for this role.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and assist individuals with disabilities in recreation programs.
• Coordinate with program leaders to adapt activities.

Skills

Effective communication with individuals with disabilities

Advocacy for social inclusion

Behavior management strategies

Enthusiasm and commitment

Education

Bachelor’s degree in psychology, sociology, recreation, or special education

Coursework in related fields

Job description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION: Individuals with disabilities are provided a companion to assist them in integrating into a general recreation program/event. Inclusion companions may also work in the before-and-after-school recreational licensed childcare programs and/or full-day care programs. Work hours and location vary.

Actively and responsibly supervise the person/persons to whom you are assigned. Coordinate with the program director/leaders to adapt activities when necessary; assist the individual with the disability to access all facets of the program; maintain behavior protocols when necessary; assist with activities of daily living; use a task analysis approach to activities when necessary; communicate daily/weekly with parents or counselors. If the individual with the disability does not require one-on-one attention during the entire activity, the companion would then assist in basic program duties. Complete all necessary paperwork.

SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS: Ability to communicate effectively with individuals with various types of disabilities; ability to advocate for individuals with disabilities to promote social inclusion within the program; work well with large and small groups; be aware of safety concerns regarding the individual; ability to enforce behavior management strategies when necessary; possess an attitude of enthusiasm and commitment in providing recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Must be 16 years old or older. If working in a licensed childcare program, must meet O.C.C qualification guidelines.

EXPERIENCE:

1. Level I: No experience or less than one year experience working with individuals with disabilities; will work with individuals with mild disabilities.
2. Level II: More than one year experience working with individuals with a disability; experience working with mild to moderate disabilities.
3. Level III: More than one year experience working with individuals with disabilities with mild to severe disabilities. Course work in recreation, psychology, special education or related field required.
4. Level IV: Bachelor’s degree or higher, or extensive course work in psychology, sociology, recreation, special education or related field. Two years or more working with individuals with mild to severe disabilities; specific expertise in behavior management, sign language or other specialty; will work with more severe disabilities.

EDUCATION: Depends on the specific placement regarding level of disability, specific accommodation needed and level of independence that the individual with the disability possesses.

RATE OF PAY: CONTINGENT
Salary commensurate with experience and on specific skills needed.

Range:

1. Level I: $17.00 to $18.50/hour Contingent/Paraprofessional
2. Level II: $18.50 - $19.50/hour Contingent/Paraprofessional
3. Level III: $19.50 - $20.50/hour Contingent/Paraprofessional
4. Level IV: $20.50 - $24.00/hour Contingent/Paraprofessional