Adult Special Needs Recreation Staff

The YMCA of Orange County is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. We are seeking highly engaged, intentional, and service-oriented individuals for a Direct Support Professional/Facilitator positions within our specialized New Horizons program.

This role is an opportunity to directly impact the lives of children and adults with special needs or developmental disabilities by fostering genuine connections and creating an environment where every individual can reach their goals.

Locations: Various program sites throughout Orange County.

Schedule & Hours of Operation

This position requires a flexible schedule that includes evenings and weekends.

Standard Weekly Hours:

• Tuesday – Thursday: 3:30 PM – 8:30 PM
• Friday: 3:30 PM – 10:00 PM
• Saturday: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Travel & Overnights:

• Multi-day Trips: Includes monthly overnight and annual out-of-state travel.
• Fully Covered Expenses: All travel-related expenses for overnight trips (including lodging, transportation) are 100% covered by New Horizons.

Purpose & Impact

• Support Inclusion: Provide ten-to-one support to adults with special needs in a safe and supervised recreational outings in the community.
• Be a Mentor: Guide participants through positive behavior reinforcement, social skill building, and goal achievement.
• Model Core Values: Demonstrate the Y’s values and a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent; 2 years of college in behavioral science is preferred.

• Driver’s License: Must possess a valid Class C License and be able to operate a passenger vehicle (e.g., 8-passenger van) for community outings.

•  CDL Preference: Willingness to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is highly preferred.

• Age Requirement: Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Availability: Ability to attend program events including nights, weekends, and overnight trips.

Invested in You: Benefits & Perks

• FREE YMCA Membership, Classes, and Pool Access.
• FREE Training including special needs topics, child development, and positive behavior interventions.
• Retirement Fund and Paid Sick Time.
• Medical/Dental/Vision for Full-Time staff.

 

Learn more about the YMCA and opportunities at: www.ymcaoc.org/careers

 

Once a conditional offer is made, candidates will be subject to criminal background check, drug screen, and will be asked to provide criminal history. Criminal history will be analyzed on a case by case basis as it related to the position. YMCA of Orange County participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.