Recreation Specialist

Who We Are

Lawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit social services agency that provides therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to youth, families, and communities impacted by trauma. Lawrence Hall is committed to helping young people build resilience, strengthen connections, and achieve long-term success through trauma-informed, community-based support. Lawrence Hall fosters a culture built upon the principles of the Children and Residential Experiences (CARE) model and the core values of Respect, Empowerment, Safety, and Teamwork. Together, these principles are embedded throughout our trauma-informed philosophy and guide how we serve youth and families, support one another as colleagues, and partner with our community.

About the Role

Be a source of strength, energy, and connection. As a Recreation Specialist, you'll support youth ages 6-21 through structured recreation and wellness programming that promotes healing, connection, and fun. Your creativity, empathy, and leadership will help young people recover from trauma and build skills through sports, community activities, and therapeutic recreation.

In this role, you will:

• Complete individual assessments and design recreation plans tailored to each youth's developmental and clinical needs
• Facilitate group and individual recreation sessions, community outings, and special events
• Coach sports such as basketball, volleyball, swimming, and track, using recreation to foster trust and resilience
• Connect youth with community-based activities, teams, and long-term opportunities
• Collaborate with caregivers, therapists, and interdisciplinary teams to support holistic care
• Document services for Medicaid billing and participate in program planning and evaluation

Who We're Looking For

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in a human services field
• Valid Illinois driver's license and personal vehicle with proof of insurance.
• Ability to engage with youth using trauma-informed and developmentally appropriate interventions
• Able to use verbal and physical intervention skills (training provided)

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in therapeutic recreation or recreation degree with therapeutic recreation specialization (CTRS)
• Coaching, Water Safety, CPR, or First Aid certification
• Experience working with youth and families impacted by trauma
• Knowledge of youth development and healing-centered practices

Position Requirements & Work Environment

• Work Location: Primarily on-site role that involves both indoor and outdoor programming in all weather condition at our Francisco Campus, 4833 N. Francisco Ave., Chicago, IL 60625.
• Schedule: Full-time Monday through Friday during after-school and evening hours, with occasional weekends and holidays as needed to meet program demands
• Travel/Driving: Travel is also required for off-site activities and community events. Must be able to transport youth and respond to program-related transportation needs.
• Physical Requirements: Requires frequent movement throughout the facility and the ability to kneel and safely return to a standing position without assistance as part of crisis intervention responsibilities. The position requires physical activity, including kneeling, standing, and engaging in recreational sports with youth
• Work Environment: Residential treatment setting serving youth with emotional and behavioral challenges requiring consistent supervision and support. Due to the nature of the work, there is a moderate to high risk of exposure to secondary trauma.
• Other Position Requirements: Must successfully complete all required background checks, pre-employment screenings, and training requirements.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: $50,000-$60,000/year, based on experience
• Average of 17-25 days PTO + 9 holidays
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with employer match
• Free life insurance (2x salary)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Referral bonus up to $1,500

How to Apply

Click the link at the top to submit your resume. We look forward to learning more about you!

Frequently cited statistics show that women and underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the necessary skills and abilities. Lawrence Hall encourages you to apply even if you do not have experience in all areas of essential functions. We look forward to your application.

This position meets the FLSA requirements for exempt.

Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.

Following job offer acceptance, all new hires are required to complete a background check through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Individuals who have lived outside of Illinois may also be subject to out-of-state checks, which can take up to eight weeks to process. While these checks are pending, candidates should continue completing all other pre-boarding requirements. Employment may begin once all pre-boarding steps are complete and DCFS clearance has been received.

Following job offer acceptance, all new hires are required to complete a background check through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Individuals who have lived outside of Illinois may also be subject to out-of-state checks, which can take up to eight weeks to process. While these checks are pending, candidates should continue completing all other pre-boarding requirements. Employment may begin once all pre-boarding steps are complete and DCFS clearance has been received.