Program Manager, Community Engagement and Social Impact at Aspire Chicago

Hillside, Illinois, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

06 Oct, 26

Salary

69000.0

Posted On

09 Jul, 26

Experience

2 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Program Management, Community Engagement, Social Impact, Special Olympics Coordination, Adaptive Sports, Relationship Building, Budget Management, Volunteer Coordination, Person-Centered Support, Strategic Planning, Program Evaluation, Partnership Development, Case Management, Cultural Competency, Risk Management, Public Advocacy

Industry

Individual and Family Services

Description

Description Create Opportunities. Build Inclusion. Change Lives. At Aspire, we believe every person deserves opportunities to connect, contribute, grow, and thrive in their community. We are seeking a passionate and innovative Program Manager, Community Engagement & Social Impact to lead meaningful recreational, social, wellness, and athletic experiences for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). This is more than a program management role—it is an opportunity to create experiences that foster belonging, independence, friendship, physical wellness, and community engagement. From coordinating community outings and social clubs to leading Special Olympics teams and building partnerships throughout the community, you will play a critical role in helping people live meaningful and fulfilling lives. If you are a relationship-builder, community connector, and champion people with disabilities who thrives on creating engaging experiences and measurable impact, we encourage you to apply. What You'll Do Lead Programs That Make a Difference Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for community engagement, recreation, wellness, and Special Olympics programming. Create engaging opportunities that promote social connection, physical fitness, independence, and community participation. Partner with Life Skills Coaches to deliver engaging weekly Social Club activities. Evaluate program effectiveness and continuously improve experiences based on outcomes and organizational goals. Track participation, engagement, partnerships, volunteer involvement, and program impact. Champion Special Olympics & Adaptive Sports Oversee Special Olympics training programs, competitions, and athlete development initiatives. Coordinate participation in regional, state, and national competitions. Ensure athlete eligibility, safety, medical requirements, and compliance with Special Olympics standards. Promote athlete leadership and inclusive participation opportunities. Expand Community Engagement Opportunities Serve as the central coordinator for recreation and community engagement initiatives across Aspire programs. Collaborate with Residential, Academy, and other program leaders to create a variety of activities that meet a wide range of interests and abilities. Partner with internal teams to coordinate transportation and participation in community activities. Develop innovative opportunities that connect people supported with the broader community. Measure and communicate the impact of engagement activities on wellness, social connection, and quality of life. Build Meaningful Community Partnerships Establish relationships with parks districts, schools, fitness centers, community organizations, recreation programs, and Special Olympics offices. Represent Aspire at community events and partnership opportunities. Advocate for increased awareness of Aspire's programs and mission. Coordinate Volunteers & Team Members Recruit, train, coordinate, and support coaches, volunteers, and team members involved in programming. Collaborate with the Donor & Volunteer Specialist to plan impactful volunteer opportunities across Aspire's Academies and Homes. Foster a culture of respect, teamwork, and person-centered support. Manage Resources & Ensure Excellence Develop and manage program budgets and resources. Partner with the Philanthropy team to identify grant and funding opportunities. Ensure compliance with organizational policies, safety standards, risk management procedures, and Special Olympics requirements. Maintain accurate documentation, incident reporting, and athlete records. Requirements Bachelor's degree in Recreation Therapy, Sports Management, Special Education, Social Work, or a related field. Minimum three (3) years of progressive experience supporting people with disabilities in environments such as camps, Special Olympics, community programs, case management, or recreation services. Experience managing sports leagues, recreational programs, community events, or similar initiatives. Strong commitment to person-centered supports, and community integration. Valid driver's license with a good driving record. Ability to travel throughout Aspire's service area and attend community events, recreational activities, and sporting competitions. Ability to occasionally work evenings and weekends. Ability to lift and move sports and recreational equipment. Preferred Qualifications Experience with Special Olympics programming, adaptive sports and recreation. Experience with budget management, grant-funded programs, and program evaluation. What Makes You Successful You are someone who: Communicates effectively with people supported, families, community partners, volunteers, and team members. Builds strong, collaborative relationships and inspires others around a shared purpose. Demonstrates cultural competency and values a variety of perspectives and experiences. Excels at organization, planning, and managing multiple priorities simultaneously. Adapts quickly and remains accountable in a dynamic environment. Uses data, analysis, and creative problem-solving to improve outcomes. Leads through influence, motivation, and a commitment to excellence. Why Aspire? At Aspire, our mission is to support people with disabilities in achieving their full potential and living lives filled with purpose, connection, and opportunity. As Program Manager, Community Engagement & Social Impact, you will help create experiences that strengthen communities, build relationships, and transform lives. Join us in creating a world where everyone feels they belong—one experience, one partnership, and one meaningful connection at a time. Apply today and help people thrive through recreation, connection, and community.

Responsibilities

Lead the development and implementation of community engagement, wellness, and Special Olympics programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Build strategic partnerships with community organizations and manage volunteers to foster social connection and independence.