Description
Position Summary
The Inclusion Adult Advocate plays a vital role in fostering a welcoming, supportive, and engaging environment for participants of all abilities within our adult enrichment programs. This position is dedicated to ensuring that each individual is meaningfully included and able to participate to the fullest extent possible.
In this role, the Inclusion Adult Advocate provides individualized support to participants with varying abilities, working proactively to adapt activities, anticipate needs, and remove barriers to engagement. Through thoughtful planning and collaboration, the advocate modifies program curriculum as needed to promote success, confidence, and a sense of belonging for every participant.
The ideal candidate is compassionate, resourceful, and attentive, with a strong commitment to inclusion and person-centered support. They are skilled at balancing structure with flexibility, thinking ahead while responding in the moment, and building positive relationships with participants, staff, and program leaders.
This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by empowering individuals, celebrating diverse abilities, and helping create an inclusive community where everyone can thrive.
Essential Functions
This job description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee in this position. Activities, duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
- Provide assistance and facilitate programming (e.g., interpret instructions, provide physical assistance, teach social skills, etc.) in order to help the participants learn recreation, education, social, and leisure skills
- Encourage social interaction between the participants with varying abilities, the group, and community
- Provide positive reinforcement or other behavioral intervention, as needed, to facilitate the participant’s involvement and acceptance in the group
- Promote the participant’s enjoyment in the program
- Respond to typical participant and staff concerns regarding those in your care
- Role model best inclusive practices for both staff and other program attendees to promote full inclusion
- Develop anecdotal or written reports regarding the progress of the participant as needed for the Inclusion Department
- Track the development of recreational, educational, social and leisure skills via documentation and/or environmental analysis checklists, meeting goals and objectives set for the participant and/or programs
- Supervise the health and safety of all participants
- Attend team meetings to discuss inclusive progress and strategies
Requirements
Minimum Qualifications
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Associate degree or above preferred
- Previous experience working with individuals of various abilities preferred
- Experience working with young adults
- Current Standard First Aid/CPR certification highly recommended
- Strong knowledge of Jewish culture and tradition, or willingness to learn
- Commitment to equity, diversity, environmental stewardship, and social justice
Competencies
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Proven attention to detail, time management, and problem-solving skills
- Positive attitude and dedication to providing exceptional customer service
- Commitment to the highest professional and ethical standards
Abuse Risk Management
- Adhere to policies related to boundaries with participants
- Attend required abuse risk management training
- Adhere to procedures related to managing high risk activities and supervising participants
- Report inappropriate behaviors and policy violations
- Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
May be required to assist adults who use both manual and electric wheelchairs. Additional physical requirements include occasional bending, crouching, reading, and lifting. May be required to push or pull up to 50 pounds. May be required to work in an outdoor environment. This job description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee in this position. Activities, duties, and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
Work Environment
This position is based out of our Sabes Center, working 4 hours per week from June to August, and 6 hours per week from September to May.
Summary
About Us
The Minnesota JCC provides meaningful programs and services for people of all backgrounds, ages, interests and abilities that promote well-being, foster inclusivity, and strengthen the entire community. Guided by Jewish values and culture, our programs include Early Childhood Educations, Summer Camps, Health & Wellness, Recreation, Youth & Teem Programing, Adult Enrichment, Inclusion Programming, Senior Supportive Services, Jewish Arts & Culture, and Special Events.
Our Values
The J is for Everyone
We create spaces and opportunities where people feel safe, seen, and connected. When everyone belongs, our entire community grows stronger.
We Adapt for the Greater Good
We are rooted in purpose and flexible in approach. We are responsive to today and ready for tomorrow, even when the path ahead isn’t completely clear.
We Show Up Strong
We meet the moment. We take pride in what we deliver and how we deliver it. We aim high, prepare, and follow through, because people are counting on us.
EEOC Statement
The Minnesota JCC provides equal opportunity to employees and applicants for employment in accordance with applicable laws. Personnel decisions are made based on merit and the needs of the organization. The Minnesota JCC does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, military or veteran status, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other status protected by law.