Calling OT/SLP Students !!! Group Support Volunteer Needed

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About CTC

At Children’s Therapy Center, we are on a mission to maximize the potential of children with special needs. We provide individualized, family-centered therapy including early intervention services, early childhood special education, physical, occupational and speech therapy. In partnership with parents and caregivers, we celebrate where each child is today and work toward who they can become.

Founded in 1979, Children’s Therapy Center has grown from a dream shared by a handful of visionary pediatric therapists to the largest and most comprehensive independent nonprofit pediatric therapy program in Washington State. Growth like ours does not happen by chance. It takes a commitment to quality services, collaboration, innovation and a focus on excellence in all areas.

Group/Project Overview:

The goal of Social Skills Group at CTC is to provide children with a variety of skills and strategies to help improve their ability to make and keep friends, build more self-confidence and behave more appropriately. Through role-playing, natural interactions, and play-based activities/lessons, children have the opportunity to practice skills in a fun and supportive environment. Weekly sessions are led by two therapist and typically have four to six children, similar in age.

Role Summary:

As a Social Skills Group Support Volunteer, you will play an important role in helping to promote and model skills for group participants. In partnership with the group leads, volunteers help create a low-stress environment for children to learn important life skills and reach their social development goals, through practice and observing others. While supporting therapist in sessions there will be many opportunities to observe and learn about the various techniques, tools, materials and equipment used in pediatric therapy.

Benefits

• Improve wellness- Volunteering can help you gain confidence by giving you the chance to try something new and build a real sense of achievement.
• Meet people, build relationships and increase social skills. Volunteering can help you meet different kinds of people and make new friends. Join other volunteers and staff at organization or community events/happenings.
• Feel a sense of belonging in your community. Volunteering can help you feel part of something outside your friends and family. Become a valued member and partner of a diverse, talented and caring team.
• Learn new skills, gain experience and valuable knowledge. Volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain experience alongside field experts and skilled staff and exposure to pediatric therapy practices, equipment, tools and strategies.
• Take on a challenge and gain confidence. Through volunteering you can challenge yourself to try something different, achieve personal goals, practice using your skills, discover hidden talents.
• Have fun and make an impact in your community! Volunteers help make a difference in the lives of children and families.

Time Commitment/ Location

• Consistently for 10 weeks, starting on September 29th, 2022
• Thursdays at 4:45 to 6:15
• 127 SW 156th ST, Burien, WA 98166

Responsibilities:

• Interact and support program participants
• Participate in group routines and aid/support therapist in activities
• Assist with setup including; moving tables/chairs/therapy equipment and gathering requested supplies
• Assist with cleanup including; moving tables/chairs/therapy equipment, and disinfecting items
• Take short video clips of session for use during parent feedback time
• Work cooperatively and effectively as a team member by communicating, contributing, and reflecting on a continuous basis
• Communicate with children, parents, and staff in support of our mission
• Model developmentally appropriate activities and positive group management techniques and provide positive reinforcement, redirection and guidance as needed.
• Careful attention to the safety of the participants and the group surroundings
• Other tasks as needed

Qualifications:

• Ideally able to commit to the full shift need for volunteers as specified above
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience working with youth, an interest in child development, individuals with special needs and developmental delays (preferred but not required)
• Enjoy working with individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and cultures.
• Embrace and be in alignment with CTC’s mission, equity practices, and values
• Work in accordance with CTC’spolicies and procedures

Minimum requirements:

• Volunteers having direct contact with children and families are required to complete a background check
• All volunteers providing service in-person either within CTC facilities or in the community as a representative of CTC, must provide proof of Covid-19 vaccination and follow all state mandated COVID-19 measures
• If under 18, signed consent of parent/guardian is required
• Participate in orientation and training related to the volunteer role/assignment
• Complete all required volunteer forms, agreements and waivers
• Follow all CTC and volunteer program policies, procedures and practices

• Proof of COVID19 Vaccination is required for all CTC staff and volunteers providing service in-person

Reports to

• Leading providers (OT and SLP)
• Volunteer and Outreach Manager

This is an unpaid, volunteer position

Children’s Therapy Center seeks to reflect the diversity of our communities. We believe every employee, volunteer and guest/visitor has the right to be free from unlawful discrimination. Consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, Children’s Therapy Center provides all employees, volunteers and applicants with equal opportunity in all aspects of the relationship.