What are the responsibilities and job description for the Activities Specialist position at Elizabeth Richardson Center, Inc?
Activities Specialist
Department: Development
Reports To: Development Director
Supervisory Responsibilities: None
Position Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Activities Specialist to help enrich the
social, emotional, and physical well-being of individuals participating in ERC programs.
The ideal candidate has a passion for working with adults with intellectual and
developmental disabilities and enjoys creating meaningful opportunities for social
interaction, community involvement, personal growth, and overall wellness.
The Activities Specialist works closely with the Activities Coordinator to develop,
organize, and support recreational, educational, and community-based activities. This
role is responsible for preparing activity plans, ordering and organizing supplies, creating
detailed instructions for staff implementation, and helping ensure activities and events
run smoothly. The Activities Specialist also assists with community outings and special
events, helping create engaging experiences that promote inclusion, connection, and
independence.
The Activities Specialist serves as a positive role model and mentor, encouraging
confidence, personal growth, and meaningful participation in activities and community
experiences.
Essential Functions
Activity Planning and Coordination
• Assist the Activities Coordinator in planning, organizing, and implementing
recreational, educational, wellness, and community-based activities.
• Create activity plans, supply lists, and detailed instructions for Care Service
Workers to facilitate activities during evening and weekend programming.
• Research, order, organize, inventory, and maintain activity supplies, materials,
and equipment.
• Prepare activity kits, schedules, and resources to support successful program
implementation.
• Assist with planning and coordinating Special Olympics activities and events.
Community Outings and Events
• Assist with planning, organizing, and attending community outings, recreational
events, and special programs.
• Help coordinate event logistics, supplies, registrations, schedules, and participant
needs.
• Support the Activities Coordinator during outings and events to ensure a safe,
positive, and well-organized experience for participants.
Program Support
• Assist volunteers, staff, and peers in implementing activities and events.
• Monitor participant engagement and provide feedback regarding activity interests
and participation.
• Work collaboratively with ERC staff to support participant goals and quality
programming.
Mentorship and Participant Engagement
• Build positive relationships with participants and encourage involvement in
activities and community experiences.
• Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating professionalism, patience,
respect, and encouragement.
• Support participants in developing confidence, social connections, life skills, and
independence.
Required Qualifications
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Reliable transportation and valid Arkansas driver's license.
• Successful completion of required background checks and drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental
disabilities.
• Experience in recreation, caregiving, education, or nonprofit settings.
• Coursework or degree in Human Services, Recreation, Special Education, Social
Work, or a related field.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Positive, patient, and encouraging attitude.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Adaptability and flexibility in changing environments.
• Commitment to inclusion, dignity, and person-centered support.
Physical and Work Requirements
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and active participation in
activities.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Local travel for community outings and special events.
• Occasional evening and weekend work required.
• Work is performed in ERC facilities, community settings, and outdoor
environments.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The Elizabeth Richardson Center (ERC) is committed to providing equal employment
opportunities to all employees and applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of
race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic
information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under
applicable federal, state, or local law.