Stephens Family YMCA·Champaign, Illinois
Provide direct support to individuals with disabilities to ensure their successful participation in YMCA programs. Responsibilities include adapting activities, implementing behavior plans, and assisting with activities of daily living.
Description This position is seasonal (May 11, 2026 - August 7, 2026). If you want to continue employment with the Y after summer camp, you will need to apply with the desired department.
GENERAL FUNCTION The Inclusion Counselor provides support so an individual with a disability may succeed in YMCA programs.
The Inclusion Counselor assists YMCA staff with implementation of the program.
Duties include adapting activities, following inclusion or behavior plans, maintaining a safe environment, and promoting success in a program.
The Inclusion Counselor is a part-time seasonal employee.
This position requires a background check.
KNOW- HOW Incumbent must have confidence and proven experience with individuals with a variety of disabilities and ages.
Ability to effectively communicate, problem solve, and demonstrate sound judgment.
Must be able to adapt or modify activities, follow written behavior plans and ability to work independently.
Must have current CPR/AED certification and/or receive within the first 60 days of employment.
Must possess good safety awareness, judgment, and problem-solving skills and be able to work in all weather conditions.
Aid an individual with a disability so he/she may succeed in a program. Aid with activities of daily living necessary to participate in the program, including assisting with toileting or changing when needed. Implement inclusion and/or behavior plans. This may include helping a child who may be exhibiting challenging behavior or in crisis. Facilitate and encourage social interactions between individuals with disabilities and their peers. Provide input on planning and leading of programs, especially as it relates to the individual with a disability. Adapt activities as needed and appropriate. Complete necessary forms and documentation. Attend staff orientation, training and meetings as directed. Maintain good public relations with participants, parents, other staff members, and general public. Communicate effectively with staff, participants, and parents. Communicate on a regular basis with Larkin’s Place Program Director about concerns, conflicts, etc. Follow all Safety policies as stated in training. Follow all YMCA policies and procedures as appropriate to assignment. Complete other work-related duties as assigned. Maintain confidentiality regarding participant information. Must be able to have basic water skills to assist with swimming when needed.
PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS Inclusion Counselors may feel stress when working to include participants in all aspects of the program. Must be able to understand the needs of the person with a disability and adapt activities to enable participation. Must be able to positively relate with people who are significantly impacted by their disability or who display challenging behavior. Ability to respond to problem situations in a mature manner and within the policies and procedures of the YMCA.
EFFECT ON END RESULTS When the Inclusion Counselor duties are fulfilled successfully, the YMCA will be viewed and respected as a community leader in recreational programs and activities for those individuals with developmental disabilities. Participants will have the opportunity to reach their full potential and become more deeply connected to the organizations. Therefore, successful fulfillment of this position should be measured by:
Increased participation in programs. Participants and/or parents become volunteers and donors, and more involved. YMCA is known as the organization that teaches the core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Achievement of department operating objectives.
Benefits: Free YMCA membership Discount on YMCA programs and merchandise
As a YMCA staff member, you are responsible for ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all members, participants, and colleagues. This includes actively adhering to and promoting the YMCA's abuse risk management policies, which are designed to prevent and address any potential incidents of abuse. You are expected to remain vigilant in recognizing signs of abuse, report any concerns or suspicious behaviors immediately, and participate in required training to stay informed on best practices for safeguarding. Your commitment to these protocols is essential in fostering a trusted, respectful, and secure environment for everyone involved in YMCA programs and services.
Market context
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