Recreational Therapist - Young Adult Programming

We’re seeking a creative and compassionate Recreational Therapist to lead therapeutic and enrichment programming for medically complex young adults at our Kosair for Kids Complex Care Center.

This role is ideal for a Recreational Therapist or experienced therapeutic programming professional who wants to make a meaningful impact each day.

Day in the Life

See yourself making a difference each day — Watch a Day in the Life of a Resident and experience the impact of your care in action.

How This Position Contributes to Our Mission

• Design and deliver person-centered therapeutic and enrichment programming for young adults with complex medical and developmental needs
• Lead group and individualized activities that promote independence, engagement, and social connection
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including therapy, nursing, caregivers, and families
• Support behavioral and emotional needs using trauma-informed and de-escalation techniques
• Oversee and mentor Resident Enrichment Specialists to ensure consistent, high-quality programming
• Ensure programming meets regulatory and safety standards

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Flex schedule includes occasional nights, weekends, and holidays for resident outings and events.

Required Qualifications

• Associate’s degree in healthcare, human services, recreation, special education, or related field
• Applicable certification in field of study, if required
• Minimum one (1) year of related professional experience
• Current CPR/BLS certification for healthcare providers, will be provided

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in healthcare, human services, recreation, or related field
• Minimum one (1) year e xperience providing enrichment or therapeutic programming for individuals with developmental, intellectual, and/or medical complexities
• Ability to adapt enrichment experiences to diverse functional, behavioral, and communication needs
• Experience with assistive technology and augmentative/alternative communication
• Experience driving large vehicles
• Experience working in long-term care or complex care settings

What We Offer

• Trauma-informed, mission-driven work environment
• Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, life)
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• 401(k) with employer match
• Ongoing training and professional development

Who We Are

As we approach our 150th anniversary, Home of the Innocents stands as one of Louisville's longest-serving non-profit organizations. Our mission is to enrich lives with hope, health, and happiness. As one of only two certified Sanctuary Organizations in Kentucky, we prioritize safety and recovery through trauma-informed practices. Our leadership is committed to developing a diverse, inclusive, and values-led workforce.

Home of the Innocents Impact

• • Total service recipients in 2025: 3,976
  • Campus size: 22 acres located near downtown Louisville
  • Residential Treatment Program: Second largest in Kentucky
  • Only dedicated emergency shelter in the city
  • 10 different programs serving children and families, providing services such as:
    • Therapeutic and residential treatment for youth with complex behavioral and emotional needs
    • Emergency shelter for children in crisis
    • Foster care and adoption support
    • Community-based behavioral health programs
  • Kosair for Kids Complex Care Center (KCC): Only facility in Kentucky serving medically complex young adults and children, and 1 of only 12 in the nation.

Ready to make an impact? Apply today and help children thrive at Home of the Innocents!