About this opportunity
Opportunity Knocks Inc. lists this Program Leader - Part Time opportunity in river forest, Illinois. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
POSITION TITLE
PROGRAM LEADER
DIRECT SUPERVISOR: Program Coordinator
JOB PURPOSE
The Program Leader at Opportunity Knocks is responsible for planning and leading activities for individuals with intellectual and developmental differences, ensuring accessibility and engagement for all participants. This role primarily involves direct service, coordinating volunteer involvement, and collaborating with the program team to achieve organizational goals, while fostering a safe, supportive, positive, and inclusive environment for participants.
EXPECTATIONS
Operate within the guidelines of this job description
At all times, communicate and interact with Warriors in a manner that is respectful and age-appropriate
Commitment, understanding, and passion for the organization’s mission, goals, and philosophies
Adhere to the standards and expectations set forth in the employee handbook
Ability to commit to a minimum of 12 hours assigned weekly schedule – mostly in-person, some remote flexibility for administrative duties
Complete Direct Support Professional Training and maintain Continuing Education
QUALIFICATIONS
REQUIRED
Must be at least 21 years of age
Ability to work independently on projects and assignments
Ability to work effectively on a team – may include other staff members, board members, volunteers, and representatives from partner agencies
Proficiency or comfort in becoming proficient in providing all variety of support to Warriors of all abilities
Demonstrates good problem‑solving skills, judgment, and ethical standards
A valid driver's license with the comfort to serve in a transport role, using OK vehicles to transport Warriors during programs
PREFERRED
First Aid and CPR certification – if not held upon hire, complete training within 90 days
Seizure first aid certification – if not held upon hire, complete training within 90 days
CPI or behavior management training certification – if not held upon hire, complete training within 90 days
Background or experience working in programs for young people with mixed abilities in an educational or recreational setting
Past experience either working or volunteering with individuals with intellectual and developmental differences in a school or recreational program setting
Computer skills in Microsoft Office platform and Google applications
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Program Planning/Coordination
Work cooperatively with the program coordinator and other program leaders in program planning and implementation to achieve the goals and objectives of the program as set forth by Opportunity Knocks
Collaborate with the program coordinator to implement pre- and post-assessments as part of the lesson plans
Adhere to specific planning requirements, criteria, and deadlines developed during program planning meetings
Create and implement appropriate daily activity plans
Develop and oversee assigned program initiatives (e.g., Wellness, Social & Recreation, Life Skills, Community Connections) through year‑round calendar planning, project execution, and timely completion of established deliverables
Work to develop daily activities that are accessible to all Warriors
Coordinate opportunities to utilize volunteers within OK programs
Assist Program coordinator in day-to-day planning
Direct Service
Coordinate and facilitate designated OK initiatives (e.g., peer‑lead planning)
Lead activities during Opportunity Knocks programs, and when not leading an activity, work to engage Warriors in OK programs
Engage with Warriors during programs
Bridge interactions between Warriors and other community members that may connect to programs – may include volunteers, partners, interns, etc.
Assist Warriors in making transitions during OK programs
Be open to working with Warriors of all abilities
Be available to assist Warriors in fulfilling their specific toileting and/or feeding needs during OK programs
Foster a safe and supportive learning environment for all Warriors during OK programs
Recognize that this role requires the ability to seamlessly transition between leading programs, supporting team members, and providing individualized 1:1 support as participant and program needs evolve
Team Collaboration/Work Ethic
Participate in the group program planning in OK programs
Attend staff meetings, planning meetings that may include but are not limited to staff planning meetings, parent meetings, vocation, and volunteer meetings, and community networking meetings
Attend and assist in facilitating in-service training
Understand the rights to privacy, demonstrate confidentiality, and respect for differences among all persons interacting with individuals with disabilities
Special projects may be assigned, expectations will be set forth at the onset of each project
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Worksite address
river forest, IL, 60330, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.