JOB TITLE: Recreation Therapy Intern

REPORTS TO: Designated Coordinator & Internship Supervisor

SCHEDULE: Minimum 25 hours/week (programming) + 15 hours/week (administrative); Schedule may vary based on program needs

LOCATION: Various Centers

STATUS: Part-Time/Internship, Non-Exempt

DRIVER POSITION: May be required

DURATION: 14–16 consecutive weeks (560–600 total hours)

SALARY RANGE: Unpaid Internship (if applicable, adjust if stipend applies)

ABOUT US:

At AbilityFirst, we are dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities achieve their personal best. Our mission is to look beyond disabilities, focus on capabilities, and expand possibilities. We provide a wide range of programs designed to support individuals with developmental and physical disabilities across their lifespan.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

As a Recreation Therapy Intern, you will support the planning and implementation of therapeutic recreation programs for children and adults with developmental and physical disabilities. This internship provides hands-on experience in program development, participant engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration, while building skills in recreation therapy practices and person-centered care.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

• Assist in planning and implementing therapeutic recreation programs that promote language, motor, and social development.
• Ensure participant safety at all times by maintaining appropriate supervision.
• Participate in the development and implementation of at least three Individual Service Plans (ISPs).
• Prepare, organize, and maintain materials and program spaces for daily activities.
• Support participants with personal care needs including feeding, toileting, and mobility assistance.
• Engage participants in activities and encourage active participation, including entering the pool during aquatic programs when required.
• Monitor, document, and report participant progress and any concerns to supervisors.
• Provide daily updates to families and caregivers.
• Maintain accurate and complete documentation of participant records and ISP goals.
• Assist with intake and assessment of new participants and help determine appropriate programming.
• Develop and implement a special event or project to support center needs.
• Collaborate with Community Coaches and staff to enhance program effectiveness and participant outcomes.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and in-service programs.
• Assist with leadership support, including mentoring Community Coaches and Aides as directed.
• Create communications such as flyers to inform families and caregivers of activities.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support program operations.

SKILLS YOU’LL NEED:

• Completion of required Therapeutic Recreation coursework is required.
• 6–12 ECE semester units (or equivalent) is preferred.
• At least one year of experience working with children or adults with developmental or physical disabilities is preferred.
• Ability to provide hands-on personal care, including feeding, toileting, and mobility assistance is required.
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain) is preferred.
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with participants, families, and staff is required.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions is required.
• Demonstrated leadership and teamwork skills is preferred.
• A positive, patient, and supportive attitude toward working with individuals with disabilities is required.
• Basic understanding of maintaining a safe and structured environment is required.
• Valid California Driver’s License and acceptable driving record is a plus.
• Ability to pass background check (LiveScan) and meet health screening requirements including TB test.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Work is performed in a recreational facility serving individuals with disabilities.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and active movement throughout the day.
• May include assisting participants in aquatic environments (pool entry required).
• Exposure to moderate noise, odors, and activity levels typical of program settings.
• Ability to lift and assist participants as needed.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS:

Mandated Reporting Requirements: The person holding this position is considered a ‘mandated reporter’ under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 Revised July 21, 2017 as a condition of employment.

NOTE: All staff members will be considered introductory employees for the first three months of employment and will not be considered regular employees until the conclusion of this period. AbilityFirst reserves the right to extend an employee’s introductory period. In no way does the expiration of this introductory period change the fact that all employees are at-will. It is the supervisor’s responsibility to orient the employee and to communicate the expectations of the supervisor and AbilityFirst, as well as to evaluate whether the employee has the necessary level of skill, job knowledge, motivation, and attitude to become a regular member of the AbilityFirst staff. New employees are also encouraged to seek guidance and assistance during this period. Employees who fail to demonstrate the expected commitment, performance and attitude may be terminated at any time during the introductory period. However, completion of the introductory period does not change or alter the “at-will” employment status. Employees continue to have the right to terminate their employment/business relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, and AbilityFirst has the same right. The organization, in its sole discretion, may change the job duties, responsibilities and assignments of any position, at any time.

EEO STATEMENT:

All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. AbilityFirst does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status under federal, state, or local law. 

AbilityFirst is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. In addition, the organization will consider employment-qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring.

Please include references in your application