Adult Program Specialist - GiGi's Playhouse Rockford

• Location 8801 N. Second Street,Machesney Park, IL, 61115,United States
• Employee Type Part Time Non Exempt

• Name Karen Carlson
• Email kcarlson

Founded in 2003, GiGi's Playhouse Inc.’s mission is to change the way the world views Down syndrome and send a global message of acceptance for all . We profoundly change lives through national campaigns, educational programs, and by empowering individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community. All programs are free and are therapeutic or educational in nature. Each one of our programs is designed to work on specific skill development, including speech and language, literacy, socialization, and fine and gross motor skills .

GiGi’s Playhouse currently has over 50 locations across North America and growing by several locations annually.

The Adult Program Specialist is responsible for delivering direct educational and life skills programming for adults with Down syndrome through GiGi Prep, GiGi U, and GiGi Professional. This role focuses on building independence, confidence, communication, and career readiness while fostering a positive, engaging, and inclusive environment.

Role is in-person at GiGi's Playhouse Rockford, 8801 N 2nd St, Machesney Park, IL 61115

• Lead and facilitate GiGi Prep, GiGi U, and GiGi Professional sessions
• Provide direct instruction in areas such as communication, social skills, health & wellness, financial literacy, and career readiness
• Adapt curriculum and teaching strategies to meet individual learning styles and needs
• Support participant goal-setting and track progress toward individualized outcomes
• Continually reinforce GiGi U Values of Respect, Independence, Cooperation

• Build strong, respectful relationships with adult participants
• Promote independence while providing appropriate levels of support
• Implement individual strategies to support behavioral and emotional regulation
• Encourage self-advocacy, problem-solving, and social engagement
• Train and support volunteers assisting in adult programs
• Provide clear direction during sessions to ensure effective participant engagement
• Foster a collaborative and positive volunteer experience

• Assist in planning and refining program content aligned with GiGi’s curriculum standards
• Collect data and maintain accurate documentation on participant progress
• Provide feedback to improve program quality and outcomes
• When participants are deemed ready to transition between program levels, meet with Program and Engagement Coordinator to complete Participant Placement Transfer form
• Communicate regularly with families/caregivers regarding participant progress
• Collaborate with site leadership and other program staff
• Represent GiGi’s Playhouse mission and values in all interactions

• Effectively and efficiently communicate with other staff, volunteers, and Playhouse families both verbally and in written form (email, newsletters, text messages, etc.) to ensure steady and accurate flow of information
• Participate in on-going training offered by GiGi’s Playhouse, Inc. (including National Conference) to ensure best practices
• Complete reports as necessary for Executive Director and/or National Office

The Adult Program Specialist must enjoy working within an entrepreneurial environment that is mission-driven, results-driven and community oriented. The following competencies describe the ideal candidate:

• Patience, empathy, and enthusiasm
• Ability to manage group dynamics effectively
• Commitment to person-centered programming

• Bachelor’s Degree, preferably with an emphasis in special education
• One year of experience in a classroom setting or comparable experience
• Passion for inclusion and empowerment of individuals with disabilities
• Strong planning and organizational skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Patience and ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• Strong interpersonal and intrapersonal skills
• The ability to be flexible and "shift on the fly"
• Creative mindset and willingness to adapt…