Program Lead

Journey21; Oconomowoc (WI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A non-profit organization in Wisconsin is seeking a Program Lead to develop and execute programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The role requires strong leadership, organizational, and community engagement skills. You will manage outings and fitness classes, ensuring participant safety and enhancing community relationships. Ideal candidates should have at least five years of leadership experience, particularly with adults with IDD, and a passion for fostering independence and wellness.

Qualifications

• At least five years of experience as a Program Lead or in a leadership role.
• Professional or personal experience with a school/advocacy organization serving adults with IDD.
• Ability to plan, organize, and lead various programs and fitness classes.

Responsibilities

• Plan and administer programs, outings, and clubs.
• Build community relationships with local businesses.
• Update participant notes and assist in Person-Centered Plan development.

Skills

Leadership skills

Organizational skills

Community engagement

Program development

Communication skills

Flexibility

Teamwork

Education

Experience in leadership role

Experience with adults with IDD

Job description

Overview

Journey21’s mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and enriching living and learning options for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) in Waukesha County and surrounding communities. Journey21 focuses on five primary service areas:

• Learning/Education – Journey21 offers three learning academies: 1) 18-21 Transition Academy, 2) Life Academy, and 3) Summer Academy. The highly structured curriculum helps adults develop independent living, socialization, and community relationship skills.
• Employment – Within the learning academies, Journey21 focuses on career readiness training and provides opportunities for internships/work experiences to learn specific job skills.
• Advocacy/Resources – Journey21’s team serves as a resource for clients, families, and caregivers. Webinars cover topics such as long-term care, guardianship, and financial planning.
• Programs, Outings, & Clubs – Journey21 offers various group social outings to facilitate growth. Programs are community-based, based out of Oconomowoc and the surrounding area.
• Residential Living – Adults with IDD have opportunities to live in a condominium or cottage in The Journey of Pabst Farms, within a vibrant and inclusive community that supports independence.

In the context of the Journey21 mission and its five primary service areas, the Enrichment Center (EC) functions as the face of the organization in the community. The Program Lead (PL) is a mission-driven leader responsible for the successful development of our programs, outings, fitness classes and clubs, including participant and community relations, supervising volunteers, operations, and safety. The PL will create, promote, and execute programs, outings, fitness classes, and clubs in a variety of settings while encouraging wellness, socialization skills, and community relationships for all participants. The PL will also assist with the Life Academy, 18-21 Transition Academy and Summer Academy when not directly involved with a program, outing or club.

Essential Job Functions

Programs & Outings:

• Plan, schedule and administer programs, outings, and clubs each quarter.
• Weekly communication with participants, parents, guardians, and volunteers outlining event details.
• Build community relationships with local businesses, organizations, and programs.
• Direct and monitor day-to-day programs and outings, clubs, kitchen/equipment operations, and program safety.
• Develop new programs, outings, clubs and events while maintaining popular ongoing offerings.
• Monthly assessment of all programs and events to maximize participation and revenue generation.
• Manage monthly budget.
• Flexibility to assist with Academies programs when short-staffed or when needed (e.g., job coaching or fitness classes).
• Complete case notes relating to client behaviors, injuries, or incidents pertaining to safety and wellness in CareMerge.
• Lead, schedule, and monitor volunteers at each event.

Person Center Plans:

• Update Journey21 participant notes including emergency contacts, allergies, behaviors, supports needed, etc.
• Assist in the development of each new participant’s Person-Centered Plan.
• Provide the monthly required PCP compliance goals check-in.

Public Relations:

• Work with the Enrichment Center Director to build and enhance Journey21’s image by being active, approachable, and visible in the community.
• Write two blog posts monthly for the website, including pictures, a summary, and the date of events.
• Support the communications strategy to share accurate information about Journey21’s Enrichment Center programs and activities.
• Be prepared to answer questions about the Enrichment Center from participants, families, guardians, community partners, donors, press, and businesses.
• Participate in marketing, public relations, and fundraising activities.

Other Responsibilities:

• Support the Enrichment Center Director.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned by the Enrichment Center Director.
• Action-oriented, entrepreneurial, flexible, and innovative.

Requirements

• At least five years of experience as a Program Lead or in a leadership role within an organization or school.
• Professional or personal experience with a school, agency, or advocacy organization serving adults with IDD, preferably in Wisconsin.
• Ability to plan, organize, direct, lead programs, fitness classes, sports camps and a variety of clubs.
• Familiarity with a variety of sports and activities.
• Enjoys helping adults with IDD develop physically, mentally, and socially.
• Passionate and humble leader with integrity, positive attitude, mission-focused, and self-directed approach.
• Help shape and strengthen the Journey21 culture.
• Must be able to work successfully both independently, as well as on a team.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Consulting, Information Technology, and Sales

Industries

• Non-profit Organizations