Join our team as a Community Events Specialist and play a key role in launching and coordinating the "Social Club," a program designed to bring individuals with disabilities together through engaging, inclusive social events. You’ll plan and execute a variety of activities, from in-person outings to virtual gatherings, while building relationships with community organizations and ensuring each event is accessible and enjoyable. With a mix of event coordination, member support, and cross-functional collaboration, you'll help create a vibrant, supportive community where individuals can connect, thrive, and build lasting relationships. If you're passionate about event planning, inclusivity, and making a positive impact, we'd love to hear from you! 

Position Summary:

The Community Events Specialist will coordinate a new service called the "Social Club," which aims to bring people with disabilities together through pre-planned social engagements to build community and natural supports. The Specialist will collaborate with multiple departments and external partners to create thriving social experiences for members. The Specialist will have a mix of in-office and on-site work at events, with occasional remote work for virtual events, availability for evening events, and occasional availability for weekend events. 

Position Responsibilities:

The following represents the primary position responsibilities, but other related duties may be assigned to meet the organization's needs.

Event Planning & Coordination:

• Develop an annual calendar of events, ensuring at least 2 in-person and 2 virtual events per month.
• Coordinate a range of activities, including volunteer opportunities, museum visits, bowling, picnics, coffee gatherings, etc. These activities will range in attendance from 5-25 attendees.
• Build relationships with community organizations and event venues, facilitating a culture of inclusivity and understanding of disabilities.
• Manage logistics such as event scheduling, ensuring enough Team Members are present, ticket purchasing, and venue communication, ensuring events are accessible and inclusive.

Member Engagement & Support:

• Promote events through internal channels, online event management platforms (e.g., Eventbrite), and community outreach.
• Communicate event details to Social Club members and Aspire Team Members, ensuring clear and timely information.
• Assist members during events, focusing on de-escalation and crowd management as needed, while fostering positive interactions among participants and with the public.

Evaluation & Feedback:

• Administer satisfaction surveys to Social Club members at designated intervals to gather feedback and improve service quality.
• Collaborate with event hosts and venues to evaluate the impact of events on their culture of inclusivity.
• Regularly analyze feedback and event outcomes to enhance future event planning and member experiences.

Collaboration & Communication:

• Work cross-functionally with Aspire Team Members, community partners, and club members to align efforts and promote a cohesive social experience.
• Serve as a point of contact for member inquiries, addressing concerns and offering solutions promptly.
• Maintain strong communication channels to ensure all stakeholders are informed of event logistics and outcomes, including collaboration with club members’ support teams from Aspire or other service provider organizations. 

Reporting to this Position: None

Required Education & Experience:

• Experience in event planning, community outreach, or related fields. 
• Experience working with people with disabilities.
• Illinois DHS Direct Support Professional (DSP) certification or ability to complete training and certification within 6 months of hire. 

Additional Licensing/Certifications:

• Valid driver’s license with good driving record

Required Skills, Knowledge & Abilities: 

• Demonstrated success in building partnerships with community organizations.
• Knowledge of inclusive practices and accessibility in public spaces.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively across teams.
• Strong organizational skills and proficiency in event management software (e.g., Eventbrite).
• Familiarity with crowd management techniques and de-escalation techniques
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a focus on inclusivity. 

Preferred Skills, Knowledge & Abilities:

• Certification in crisis de-escalation and CPR/First Aid. 
• Illinois DHS Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP) certification.
• PACE driver certification.

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Aspire was founded in 1960 and is recognized as a leader in providing bold, pioneering, and uncompromising services to adults with developmental disabilities, their families and the community. In 2019, we joined forces with NorthPointe Resources to be one of the most recognized and respected disability service providers across the Chicago metropolitan area, Lake County (Illinois), and southeastern Wisconsin areas.

Full-Time Pay and Benefits (regularly scheduled to work more than 37 1/2 hours per week)

• Health Insurance
• Benefit Time (Vacation, Sick, Personal)
• 13 Holidays
• 403(B) Retirement Savings Plan with matching contribution
• Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Voluntary Insurances available

Aspire’s priority is keeping our team members and participants healthy and safe. PPE is provided and regular cleaning and disinfecting regiments are followed to maintain a safe work and living environment. Hand sanitizer is available throughout our facilities. 

Aspire is an equal employment opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. 

Aspire is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities so that an applicant may complete the essential functions of a position. The essential functions of positions are outlined in a position’s job description. To request an accommodation or if you have a question regarding what the essential functions of a position are please contact the People Team at 708.632.5777.