Life Enrichment Program Assistant

Journey21 Overview:

Journey21’s mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and enriching living and learning options for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) in Waukesha County and surrounding communities.

Journey21 focuses on 5 primary services areas:

• Learning/Education – Journey21 offers learning academies: 1) 18-21 Transition Academy, 2) Life Academy, 3) Summer Academy, and 4) LAUNCH Academy. The highly structured curriculum helps adults with developing their independent living skills, vocational skills and building community relationships. The “Life Enrichment Program” is a year-round daily program focused on overall well-being, quality of life, independence, and meaningful community connections.
• Employment –Journey21 also focuses career readiness training and provides opportunities for clients to participate in internships/work experiences where they can learn specific job skills. The Life Enrichment Program volunteers in the community to practice working together and giving back in a meaningful way.
• Advocacy/Resources – Journey21’s team acts as a resource of information pertinent to clients, their families, and caregiver. For instance, webinars are held on long-term care, guardianship, financial planning, and more.
• CORE Programs– Journey21 offers various small and large group social outings that facilitate individual growth within our Enrichment Center. Our programs are community-based out of Oconomowoc and are conducted in the surrounding area.
• Residential Living – We will offer adults with IDD the opportunity to live in a condominium or cottage in The Journey of Pabst Farms, a vibrant and inclusive community where they can have friends, opportunities to grow and live independently.

Job Summary: 

In the context of the Journey21 mission and its five primary service areas, the Enrichment Center (EC) functions as the face of the organization in the community. The Life Enrichment Program Assistant is responsible for supporting the enriching programming opportunities designed to help adults build self-confidence, develop daily living skills, promote health and wellness, and engage in community outings.

 Essential Job Functions:

• Supports the Lead Staff in developing and implementing programs that promote socialization, daily living skills, health, wellness, and community involvement
• Provides consistent support, guidance, and supervision to participants throughout the day. This includes assisting with daily tasks, promoting independence, and ensuring safety and well-being
• Work closely with other instructors, staff, and specialists to coordinate care and ensure all participants’ needs are met
• Engages, motivates, and inspires students throughout the school day
• Establishes and maintains standards of student behavior needed to achieve effective participation in activities and learning experiences
• Creates a positive, inviting, and safe learning environment
• Models enthusiasm for learning and teaching
• Action-oriented, entrepreneurial, flexible, and innovative

 Public Relations:

• Working with the Enrichment Center Director, to build and enhance Journey21’s image by being active, approachable, and visible in the Journey21 community and the surrounding communities.
• Participate in developing and executing an effective communications strategy to help share accurate information regarding Journey21’s Enrichment Center’s programs and activities.
• Be prepared to answer questions about the Enrichment Center from participants, families, guardians, community partners, donors, press, and businesses.

 Requirements:

• Associate or Bachelor’s Degree (Preferred)
• At least two years of experience working in a day program, as a Special Education Assistant, or in a similar role.
• Enjoy helping adults with IDD develop physically, mentally, and socially.
• Help shape and strengthen the Journey21 culture.
• Must be able to work successfully both independently, as well as on a team.