What are the responsibilities and job description for the InteGREAT Director position at Hockomock YMCA?
The InteGREAT Director plays a vital role in advancing the mission of the YMCA, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. This position is responsible for the development, implementation, and ongoing sustainability of the Integration Initiative Academy, which provides educational programs for adults with disabilities.
The Director will ensure the delivery of services that support individuals with disabilities in developing self-care skills for independent living, securing and maintaining employment in integrated settings, and participating in wellness activities. This role involves direct engagement with participants to identify skill-building opportunities and employment interests, as well as providing individualized support.
Key responsibilities include case management, service and program coordination, and the supervision of part-time staff, clients, and job coaches. The ideal candidate will bring a person-centered approach, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
Essential Functions
- Deliver educational programming to adults with disabilities using established curricula focused on Independent Living, Vocational Skills, Wellness, and Social Skills development.
- Regularly review and assess curricula, adapting content to meet the evolving needs of participants.
- Design and implement social skill-building activities that foster effective communication, relationship development, and interpersonal growth.
- Provide instruction and resources to support independent living, including self-care, budgeting, time management, and decision-making.
- Build collaborative relationships with clients and their families/caregivers to develop individualized, client-centered goals aligned with Individual Service Plans (ISPs).
- Supervise part-time instructors, job coaches, and student interns by managing schedules and conducting regular supervision meetings.
- Cultivate partnerships and create employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities by leveraging a variety of community and industry resources.
- Support employers in understanding accommodations and best practices for integrating individuals with disabilities into their workforce.
- Facilitate successful job transitions by providing direct support and fostering natural workplace supports for long-term employment.
- Offer ongoing participant support, including vocational counseling, job training, skill development, and travel training as needed.
- Coordinate with case management teams to ensure participants have access to essential services and maintain engagement across relevant program areas.
- Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with state and community agencies, family members, and service providers.
- Represent the program at community events, conferences, and resource fairs, tailoring presentations to the audience’s needs.
- Maintain accurate documentation and records for administrative and evaluation purposes, including participant progress, employment history, and accommodation needs.
- Stay current on trends, challenges, and available supports related to independent living, social development, and wellness for individuals with disabilities.
- Lead programming that promotes social engagement, recreational peer interactions, coping strategies, and emotional wellness.
- Oversee the delivery of fitness and wellness programs that emphasize long-term health and the development of lifelong physical activity skills.
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support program success and participant outcomes.
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in Education, Occupational Therapy, Recreational Therapy, or a related field; or a minimum of five years of relevant experience.
- Proven experience in program development, particularly in services for individuals with disabilities.
- Minimum of three years of supervisory experience, including managing staff or volunteers.
- Working knowledge of adapted equipment and inclusive approaches for individuals with disabilities.
- CPR, First Aid, and Oxygen certification required prior to program launch.
- Demonstrated ability to respond effectively in emergency and safety-related situations.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to coach, guide, and support staff and participants.
- Experience collaborating with the Department of Disability Services or other disability-related agencies is preferred.