Camp Aide - HISRA

The Heart of Illinois Special Recreation Association (HISRA) is a cooperative effort of the Peoria, Morton, Chillicothe, and Washington Park Districts. Its mission is to provide quality recreation programs and services to individuals with disabilities and special needs. HISRA has several openings that center around hands-on experiences working with these individuals.

Duties: Under the supervision of the Program Supervisor, the Camp Aide – HISRA will be responsible for the following:

• Provide individualized support to campers with disabilities, ensuring their safety, well-being, and appropriate participation in camp activities.
• Collaborate with camp counselors and staff to adapt activities and programs to meet the diverse needs of campers with special needs.
• Foster open and effective communication with campers, their families, and fellow camp staff to ensure a cohesive and supportive camp community.
• Assist in managing behaviors by using strategies learned through CPI training, employing positive reinforcement strategies and maintaining a calm and patient demeanor.
• Ensure the safety and security of campers during all camp activities, including meals, outings, and overnight stays.
• Be flexible and ready to adapt to the unique needs of each camper, making necessary adjustments to ensure a positive and inclusive experience for all.
• Work collaboratively with camp counselors, medical staff, and other camp aides to create a supportive and inclusive camp environment.
• Attend pre-camp training sessions to learn about the specific needs of campers, emergency procedures, and effective communication strategies
• Perform other duties as required.

Essential Functions: The following work environment characteristics as described in this job description are representative of those of an indoor/ outdoor work environment the employee encounters while performing essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the functions of this role, the employee may be exposed to all types of lighting, weather and temperature conditions, such as sun, heat and humidity. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately loud to very loud. This position also involves work in close quarters to buses during field trips with campers, and at various indoor locations.

Experience: Previous experience working with children and young adults with disabilities, demonstrating a genuine understanding and appreciation for their unique needs. Must be at least 16 years old.

Knowledge and Ability:

• Passion for working with individuals with disabilities and creating inclusive environments.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to adapt to quickly changing situations and behaviors.
• Patience, empathy, and a positive attitude.
• Some experience working or volunteering with individuals with disabilities is greatly desired.
• Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers.

Perks:

• Part-time employees enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park District facilities.

The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status, or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law.  

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.  

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Salary : $16 - $17