CUSR Sports and Community Support Staff

CU Special Recreation Sports and Community Support Staff

Champaign Park District – Part-Time 2, Non-Exempt (hours not to exceed 19 hours per week on average)

About the Job

Make a meaningful difference while helping individuals with disabilities participate fully in recreation and community activities. The CU Special Recreation Sports and Community Support Staff works alongside Program Leads to provide safe, inclusive, and engaging therapeutic recreation experiences. Programs may include sports, swimming, fitness, bowling, crafts, community outings, social events, and special events. This hands-on role includes participant supervision, personal care and mobility assistance, program setup, and active participation in activities.

Summary of Responsibilities

Assist Program Leads with organizing, supervising, and leading recreational activities.
Help create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for participants.
Supervise participants during programs, trips, community outings, and special events.
Provide individualized support, including behavior management, feeding, toileting, clothing assistance, and other daily living needs.
Assist with safe transfers, repositioning, wheelchair mobility, wheelchair lifts, and vehicle wheelchair securement as needed.
Actively participate in sports, swimming, fitness, and other recreational activities alongside participants.
Set up, monitor, clean, and properly store program equipment and supplies.
Communicate participant needs, concerns, progress, and program feedback to Program Leads and Coordinators.
Complete assigned program documentation and promptly report accidents, injuries, illnesses, or incidents.
Assist with inventorying and recommending program supplies and equipment.
Attend staff meetings and required training.
Follow all Champaign Park District safety, confidentiality, equal opportunity, and harassment-prevention policies.
Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat and cold.

Why Work With Us?

This is a rewarding opportunity to help people of all abilities build skills, confidence, friendships, and connections within the community. Staff gain valuable hands-on experience in inclusive and therapeutic recreation while developing skills in communication, behavior support, adaptive recreation, participant safety, and teamwork.

The Champaign Park District can provide required training, including First Aid, CPR and AED certification, concussion awareness, mandated reporter training, harassment prevention, bloodborne pathogen training, CPI training, facility training, and driver training when applicable.

Benefits Summary

As a Part-Time 2, non-exempt employee, benefits and employee perks are provided in accordance with Champaign Park District policies for this employment classification. Employees also benefit from job-related training, professional skill development, hands-on recreation experience, and opportunities to make a positive impact in the community.

About the Champaign Park District

The Champaign Park District enhances the quality of life in our community by providing welcoming parks, facilities, programs, and recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Through CU Special Recreation, we help ensure individuals with disabilities have access to meaningful, inclusive recreation experiences that encourage participation, independence, social connection, and fun.

Who This Position Is Ideal For

This position is a great fit for someone who is patient, dependable, energetic, and genuinely interested in supporting individuals with disabilities. Previous direct experience is preferred, but candidates who are enthusiastic about inclusive recreation and willing to learn are encouraged to apply.

Applicants must be able to lift up to 40 pounds and carry items up to 100 feet; heavier lifting requires assistance or mechanical support. Staff must also be available to work at least three programs per season or one program per month to remain active.

The Champaign Park District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employees are required to comply with our equal opportunity and harassment laws, policies, and procedures.

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