CUSR Youth Program Director

Job Details

Job Location:

CUSR Center - Champaign, IL 61821
Position Type:
Part-time
Salary Range: $18.50 - $19.50 hourly
Champaign Park District – Part‑Time 1 (not to exceed 29 hours per week on average)

Step into a high‑impact role that shapes the experience of youth and teens with disabilities across CU Special Recreation. You’ll direct daily operations for CU Special Recreation Summer Camp, After school Programs, and year‑round youth and teen initiatives, building safe, inclusive, and engaging environments where participants can thrive. If you love leading people, designing creative programs, and making a real difference in families’ lives, this is your kind of job.

• Lead and oversee all daily operations for youth and teen CUSR programs, including Summer Camp and After school Programs.
• Plan, implement, and adapt activities to meet diverse participant needs and ensure a positive, inclusive experience.
• Train, supervise, support, and evaluate part‑time and seasonal staff to maintain high‑quality program delivery.
• Ensure all safety procedures, emergency protocols, and site inspections are completed and followed.
• Maintain strong communication with families, staff, and the CUSR Youth & Teen Program Coordinator.
• Manage program logistics including scheduling, newsletters, weekly plans, attendance, incident reports, and participant documentation.
• Track budgets, purchase supplies responsibly, and maintain organized records.
• Promote welcoming, respectful, and inclusive program environments.
• Uphold confidentiality, professionalism, and Park District policies at all times.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

This role lets you flex your leadership skills, grow your experience in inclusive recreation, and directly shape meaningful programming for youth and teens with disabilities. You’ll work with a supportive team, gain specialized training, and be part of a mission‑centered organization that values creativity, safety, and community impact.

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Leadership experience in youth programs.
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• Strong communication, organization, and leadership skills.
• Ability to adapt quickly, problem‑solve, and support participants with diverse needs.
• Ability to build strong relationships with families, staff, participants, and community members.
• Commitment to confidentiality, safety, and inclusive recreation.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 20% discount on qualified room and shelter/pavilion rentals for employees and immediate household members
• Free drink & popcorn at the Virginia Theatre when showing your Park District badge
• Recognition Programs:
  Posi Bucks appreciation rewards, Impact Awards ($50 award for approved nominations), Keeva Keeling Outstanding Employee of the Year recognition
• Cell phone carrier discounts
• AFLAC group‑rate voluntary benefit options
• SPOT Pet Insurance group discount

The Champaign Park District is dedicated to building community through exceptional parks, programs, and experiences. We value inclusion, safety, innovation, and teamwork—and we’re committed to creating spaces where every participant and employee feels welcome, supported, and empowered to grow.

This job is perfect for someone who thrives in youth programming, loves leading teams, and is passionate about inclusive recreation. If you’re energized by fast‑paced environments, creative problem‑solving, meaningful relationships, and the chance to make a lasting impact on youth and teens with disabilities—you’ll shine here.

The Champaign Park District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employees are required to comply with our equal opportunity and harassment laws, policies, and procedures.