Program Assistant - North Country Recreation Program

About the North Country Recreation Program:

The purpose of North Country Recreation is to offer people the opportunity to enjoy not only outdoor activities but also other activities, such as crafts, video production, games, online chats, and so much more! This is a program for people with disabilities, including those with more involved physical disabilities who may require assistance.

One of the main ideas behind this program is that people learn a lot about themselves when they learn something new in a new environment, together with new people. Stretching themselves outside of their "comfort zones" enables them to be open to further learning experiences. Exercise and outdoor activities offer long-term health benefits that are fun, accessible, and affordable. Group activities outside of the sports and exercise portion of the program allow people to come together and learn, create, work together, and overall have fun!

About this position:

REPORTS TO: Home Services Director

RATE OF PAY: $18.90 - $19.25 per hour; biweekly pay structure

WORK SCHEDULE: Primarily weekdays, but varies based on the needs of the agency and the individuals that we support. Some evenings, overnights, or weekend hours may be required but are generally scheduled well in advance.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Assists in coordinating and developing activities; provides instruction to and assists participants during activities; and records and provides appropriate documentation to meet program needs.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Assist in developing new activities for the program and help coordinate activities with other Outdoor Recreation staff.
2. Assist with mailings and participate in conference presentations and annual training.
3. Communicate with staff and participants as needed to ensure the needs of the program and activities are being met. Be punctual for events and accept feedback from participants and supervisor.
4. Lead warm-up exercises, help gather equipment and carry it to the site of activities, assist participants in properly fitting and using safety equipment specific to various activities, and offer physical and verbal assistance and instruction to participants.
5. Draft narratives of activities and Family Support outings. Record time and attendance in Precision Care accurately and submit documentation for activities and outings in a timely manner.
6. Assist in supervising activities to ensure participants’ safety and well-being.
7. Provide billable, direct support services to individuals enrolled in Habilitation Services and Outdoor Recreation participants.
8. Perform other duties as requested or directed by the supervisor.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

1. High School diploma, GED, or IEP required.
2. Basic First Aid and CPR, American Red Cross Small Craft Safety Course for Canoes and Basic Water Rescue required. (Training will be provided at hire.)
3. Wilderness First Aid and American Red Cross Life Guard Certification preferred.
4. NYS Driver’s License with two years of driving experience required.
5. Acceptable motor vehicle abstract to meet Agency insurability standards.
6. Reliable personal vehicle for business use (mileage is paid).
7. Availability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and overnights.
8. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with participants.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:

1. Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs and lift, transfer, and support participants with and without help.
2. Physical strength to subdue a participant to prevent participant or personal injury.
3. Ability to operate personal and Agency vehicles.
4. Ability to walk and stand for extended periods.
5. Some exposure to infectious diseases, hygiene issues, food, and other odors.
6. Able to tolerate atmospheric conditions when performing regular outdoor seasonal activities.
7. Ability to operate mechanical devices used by individuals.

Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Country offers excellent, affordable benefits options to eligible employees. Options include medical, dental, and vision insurance, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Term Life/AD&D insurance, long-term and short-term disability, and 401(k), as well as other elective programs. We also offer generous time off, including vacation, personal, and sick time, as well as paid holidays.