Activities Specialist About the Foundation for Independent Living, Inc. (FIL) The Foundation for Independent Living, Inc. (FIL) is a private, not-for-profit, community-based program serving adults with varying cognitive disabilities and developmental delays. FIL provides a unique and supportive environment where adults can build independence, develop meaningful relationships, participate in their community, and live fulfilling lives. Since 1985, FIL has been committed to creating an inclusive community where individuals with diverse abilities are valued and empowered to achieve their most fulfilling and independent lives. What We're Looking For .... The Activities Specialist is a hands-on member of FIL's Programming Department responsible for facilitating engaging, meaningful, and inclusive recreational, social, educational, and community-based activities for FIL residents. This position requires an individual who is energetic, creative, dependable, and genuinely enjoys engaging with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Activities Specialist is expected to do more than supervise or observe activities; they must actively participate, motivate residents, create enthusiasm, and help bring each activity to life. Activities may take place during the day, evenings, weekends, and holidays and may include on-site programming, community outings, special events, recreational activities, educational opportunities, and other resident-centered experiences. The Activities Specialist works under the direction of the Activities Supervisor and collaborates with other FIL departments to provide safe, enjoyable, and person-centered programming. Key Responsibilities Resident Engagement & Activity Facilitation Facilitate scheduled recreational, social, educational, creative, wellness, and community-based activities for residents. Actively engage and participate with residents throughout activities rather than serving solely in an observational or supervisory capacity. Create a welcoming, enthusiastic, and positive atmosphere that encourages residents to participate. Encourage residents of varying abilities, interests, and comfort levels to become involved while respecting individual choice. Adapt activities when appropriate to support different abilities and levels of participation. Promote opportunities that encourage independence, socialization, confidence, relationship-building, and community inclusion. Develop positive and professional relationships with residents while maintaining appropriate boundaries. Assist with identifying resident interests and recommending new activities, outings, clubs, and special events. Support residents who may need additional encouragement, redirection, or assistance during activities. Activity Preparation & Execution Prepare activity areas, materials, equipment, supplies, and other resources prior to scheduled programming. Ensure activities begin on time and are organized and ready for resident participation. Assist with setup and breakdown of activities, events, celebrations, and department functions. Maintain activity spaces and supplies in a clean, organized, and safe manner. Help monitor activity supplies and communicate replenishment needs to the Activities Supervisor. Follow the established monthly activity calendar and assigned programming schedule. Contribute creative ideas and recommendations for future programming based on resident interests, participation, and feedback. Community Outings & Transportation Participate in and assist with community outings, recreational trips, dining experiences, special events, and other off-site activities. Assist residents with safely entering and exiting FIL vehicles and navigating community environments as appropriate. Maintain appropriate resident supervision and awareness during community outings. Follow established procedures regarding attendance, resident counts, transportation, emergency information, and outing documentation. Drive FIL vehicles when assigned and authorized and comply with all organizational vehicle and transportation policies. Maintain professional and appropriate interactions with community partners, businesses, and members of the public while representing FIL. Resident Safety & Support Maintain awareness of resident safety and well-being during activities, events, and community outings. Follow individualized resident support guidelines and established FIL policies and procedures. Utilize appropriate redirection, de-escalation, and conflict-resolution techniques when needed. Promptly report resident concerns, behavioral changes, injuries, incidents, or medical concerns to the appropriate supervisor or department. Respond appropriately during emergencies and follow FIL emergency and incident-reporting procedures. Maintain required resident confidentiality and professional boundaries at all times. Documentation & Communication Accurately complete required attendance records, activity documentation, incident reports, observations, and other assigned documentation. Communicate relevant resident information and concerns to the Activities Supervisor and appropriate FIL team members. Maintain professional and respectful communication with residents, coworkers, supervisors, families, and community partners. Participate in department meetings, staff meetings, required trainings, and other organizational meetings as assigned. Communicate scheduling concerns, activity needs, resident concerns, and program observations in a timely manner. Teamwork & Organizational Support Work collaboratively with the Activities Supervisor and other members of the Programming Department. Collaborate with other FIL departments to support resident events, celebrations, outings, and organization-wide initiatives. Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to assist with programming needs as schedules and resident needs change. Maintain a dependable and professional presence, including punctuality, attendance, appropriate dress, and readiness to actively participate in assigned programming. Accept direction, feedback, and coaching and demonstrate a willingness to continually improve performance. Perform other related duties as assigned in support of FIL residents and programming operations. Required Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent required. Experience working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, human services, recreation, activities, education, or a related setting preferred. Ability and willingness to actively participate in recreational and community-based activities. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to engage individuals with varying personalities, abilities, interests, and support needs. Ability to work effectively as part of a team and follow established direction, schedules, policies, and procedures. Strong judgment, patience, problem-solving skills, and ability to respond appropriately to challenging situations. Basic computer and documentation skills. Must successfully complete all required background screenings. Must possess a valid driver's license and successfully meet FIL's Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) requirements if driving responsibilities are assigned. Preferred Characteristics The successful Activities Specialist will be: Energetic, enthusiastic, and highly engaged Creative and willing to bring new ideas to the department Compassionate, patient, and respectful Dependable and accountable Comfortable initiating interaction and encouraging participation Positive and able to create an enjoyable atmosphere for residents Flexible and able to adjust to changing resident and programming needs Comfortable participating in indoor and outdoor recreational activities Able to take initiative while also following the direction of the Activities Supervisor Passionate about helping adults with diverse abilities live active, social, and fulfilling lives Schedule Expectations This position requires scheduling flexibility based on FIL's programming needs. Activities Specialists may be scheduled during days, evenings, weekends, and holidays , as resident programming occurs throughout the week. Regular and dependable attendance is an essential expectation of this position. Equal Opportunity Statement The Foundation for Independent Living, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by applicable law.

Pay:

$20.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Experience:

children or adults with

IDD:

2 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

Driver's License (Required)

Work Location:

In person