Inclusive Recreation Coordinator

The Ability Center, a Center for Independent Living (CIL), is on a mission to build the most disability-friendly community in the nation. As a CIL, we operate with a unique philosophy of consumer control, where individuals with all types of disabilities directly govern and staff the organization. We empower people with disabilities to achieve greater independence, pursue their passions, and transform how society views disability.

About the Role:

We seek a passionate, community-oriented individual who thrives while collaborating while also taking initiative and bringing creativity to program development. The Inclusive Recreation Coordinator develops and leads adaptive programs fostering independence, social engagement, and community inclusion. This role includes managing programs like SportAbility and Wheelchair Football, collaborating with participants and community members to launch new initiatives, and partnering with coworkers to offer activities such as kayaking, game nights, and more. Additionally, the Inclusive Recreation Coordinator will expand our Lending Closet by partnering with schools and community programs to ensure access to adaptive recreation equipment. Evening and weekend availability is required though schedules are planned in advance and allow for flexibility in schedule to maintain work life balance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, lead, and evaluate inclusive recreational programs across age groups, with an emphasis on community-driven and participant-led initiatives.
• Manage adaptive recreation equipment, including inventory, lending, and resource expansion for schools and community partners.
• Build relationships with schools, businesses, and recreation providers to promote inclusive recreation.
• Take initiative in designing and implementing new community-based programs, such as wheelchair basketball, adaptive cycling, and spontaneous pop-up events in local parks or schools.
• Facilitate social recreation opportunities that encourage organic community engagement and peer interaction for people with and without disabilities.
• Recruit and support participants and volunteers.
• Advocate for individuals with disabilities and support them in accessing community resources.
• Track program outcomes, manage budgets, maintain records, and ensure safety standards for equipment and activity spaces.
• Drive a company van to transport equipment and support program logistics. We do not transport consumers.

Your Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Therapy, Recreation Management, Adaptive Recreation, or a related field.
• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential preferred.
• Experience planning and leading inclusive recreational programs, including adaptive activities for individuals with disabilities.
• Passion for sports, recreation, and fostering community engagement through creative and nontraditional programming.
• CPR/First Aid certification preferred.

• Reliable transportation and the ability to travel to community locations.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to engage with individuals of all ages and abilities, families, and community partners.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with program evaluation.

Essential Physical Demands: This position requires frequent physical activity, including standing, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and moving between locations. The employee will regularly lift and transport items or equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. Participation in and leadership of recreational activities may involve extended periods of walking, standing, and climbing stairs. Use of a personal or company vehicle for transporting equipment is required.

Why Join Us?
The Ability Center values diversity, equity, and inclusion, offering a culture where your unique experiences and abilities contribute to our mission. We provide competitive pay and comprehensive benefits.

We’re committed to providing reasonable accommodations and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Application Process:
Visit our careers page to apply or contact Human Resources at 419-885-5733 for accommodations. We’re committed to providing reasonable accommodations and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Please visit our website for more information. All candidates must pass an FBI/BCII background check, drug screen, and physical if position if offered.