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Opportunityknocksnow

Program Leader - Part Time

River Forest, Illinois

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hirly's read of this role

Seniority
Mid level
Country
US
Work mode
On-site / unstated
First seen by hirly
2 Sept 2026

Derived automatically from the posting. Upload your resume above to see how the role scores against it.

the posting

OUR MISSION & OUR TEAM

Opportunity Knocks exists to support people with different abilities as they live, work, learn, grow and connect within their community. We believe in a dynamic, person-centered, and community-based approach to programming that engages the voice of all Warriors.

We also believe in a dynamic, person-centered workforce that includes the voices of all varieties of humans. We strive to build our team with that ideal in mind. Everyone has something to offer this mission. Come bring what you have.

ABOUT OK PROGRAMS

Our dynamic, person-centered and community-based day program engages the voice of all Warriors, thrives on interdependent connections, encourages exploration, centers on holistic wellness and fosters healthy relationships. Activity offerings vary and evolve with Warrior input.

_____________________________________________________________________

POSITION TITLE

PROGRAM LEADER

DIRECT SUPERVISOR: Program Coordinator

JOB PURPOSE

The Program Leader at Opportunity Knocks is responsible for planning and leading activities for individuals with intellectual and developmental differences, ensuring accessibility and engagement for all participants. This role primarily involves direct service, coordinating volunteer involvement, and collaborating with the program team to achieve organizational goals, while fostering a safe, supportive, positive, and inclusive environment for participants.

EXPECTATIONS

Operate within the guidelines of this job description

At all times, communicate and interact with Warriors in a manner that is respectful and age-appropriate

Commitment, understanding, and passion for the organization’s mission, goals, and philosophies

Adhere to the standards and expectations set forth in the employee handbook

Ability to commit to a minimum of 12 hours assigned weekly schedule - mostly in-person, some remote flexibility for administrative duties

Complete Direct Support Professional Training and maintain Continuing Education

QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED

Must be at least 21 years of age

Ability to work independently on projects and assignments

Ability to work effectively on a team - may include other staff members, board members, volunteers, and representatives from other partner agencies

Proficient or comfort in becoming proficient in providing all variety of support to Warriors of all abilities

Demonstrates good problem-solving skills, judgment, and ethical standards

A valid driver's license with the comfort to serve in transport role, using OK vehicles to transport Warriors during programs

PREFERRED

First Aid and CPR certification - if not held upon hire, complete training within 90 days

Seizure first aid certification - if not held upon hire, complete training within 90 days

CPI or behavior management training certification - it not held upon hire, complete training within 90 days

Background or experience working in programs for young people with mixed abilities in an educational or recreational setting

Past experience either working or volunteering with individuals with intellectual and developmental differences in a school or recreational program setting

Computer skills in Microsoft Office platform and Google applications

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Planning/Coordination

Work cooperatively with the program coordinator and other program leaders in program planning and implementation to achieve the goals and objectives of the program as set forth by Opportunity Knocks

Collaborate with the program coordinator to implement pre and post-assessments as part of the lesson plans

Adhere to specific planning requirements, criteria, and deadlines developed during program planning meetings

Create and implement appropriate daily activity plans

Develop and oversee assigned program initiatives (i.e., Wellness, Social & Recreation, Life Skills, Community Connections) through year-round calendar planning, project execution, and timely completion of established deliverables

Work to develop daily activities that are accessible to all Warriors

Coordinate opportunities to utilize volunteers within OK programs

Assist Program coordinator in day to day planning

Direct Service

Coordinate and facilitate designated OK initiatives (i.e. peer lead planning)

Lead activities during Opportunity Knocks programs, and when not leading an activity work to engage Warriors in OK programs

Engage with Warriors during programs

Bridge interactions between Warriors and other community members that may connect to programs - may include volunteers, partners, interns, etc.

Assist Warriors in making transitions during OK programs

Be open to working with Warriors of all abilities

Be available to assist Warriors in fulfilling their specific toileting and/or feeding needs during OK programs

Foster a safe and supportive learning environment for all Warriors during OK programs

Recognize that this role requires the ability to seamlessly transition between leading programs, supporting team members, and providing individualized 1:1 support as participant and program needs evolve.

Team Collaboration/Work Ethic

Participate in the group program planning in OK programs

Attend staff meetings, planning meetings that may include but are not limited to staff planning meetings, parent meetings, vocation, and volunteer meetings, and community networking meetings

Attend and assist in facilitating in-service training

Understands the rights to privacy, demonstrates confidentiality, and respect for differences among all persons interacting with individuals with disabilities.

Special projects may be assigned, expectations will be set forth at the onset of each project.

OK WORK CULTURE COMMITMENTS

The people who work for our organization are our most important alliance. We are committed to attracting, retaining and developing a diverse group of passionate, high-character individuals who will contribute their best efforts and skills. We are committed to supporting those individuals in a workplace that prioritizes well-being, and recognizes their value with meaningful compensation.

OK WORKFORCE COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION

We will take a mindful and active role to ensure that we achieve diversity in all aspects of our organization and our work. Such diversity will reflect the culturally rich and vibrant community that we represent. We will openly welcome people of all backgrounds and seek to foster a culture of respect, openness, learning, integrity, and honesty.

Original posting on Opportunityknocksnow's site ↗

Listed on hirly, a job board. hirly is not the employer: Opportunityknocksnow is hiring for this role.

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