Association Director of Adaptive Programming

The Association Director of Adaptive Programming provides strategic leadership and oversight for inclusive and adaptive programs.
Job Description

The Association Director of Adaptive Programming provides strategic leadership and oversight for inclusive and adaptive programs across the YMCA association. This position ensures that individuals of all abilities—including those with physical, developmental, intellectual, and sensory disabilities—have access to meaningful, high-quality YMCA programs and services. The Director will collaborate with branch teams, families, and community partners to promote inclusion and accessibility, in alignment with the YMCA’s mission and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

This position serves on the Senior Leadership Team for the Association. This position will receive a minimum of 4 weeks Paid-Time Off, Holiday Pay, Full-time benefits to include Medical, Dental, Vision, Life insurance, a Retirement 403(b) pension plan upon eligibility and a Free Y Membership.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Special Education, Social Work, Nonprofit Management, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
  • Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in adaptive or inclusive programming, preferably in a nonprofit or community setting.
  • Demonstrated success in program development, staff training, and community collaboration.
  • Knowledge of ADA regulations, inclusive recreation strategies, and person-centered planning.
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  • Relevant certifications (e.g., CPRP, CTRS, First Aid/CPR) preferred or required within 90 days of hire.
  • Ability to travel between branch locations and work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.
  • Must be 21 years of age, and have a valid driver’s license as well as the capacity to drive to various locations within the greater San Antonio metropolitan area.

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Frequent travel to branch locations and community partner sites required.
  • Regularly required to stand, sit, move, and engage with program participants and staff.
  • Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.
  • May work in a variety of environments including gymnasiums, pools, classrooms, and outdoor spaces.
  • Incumbent must be able to sit and stand for long periods of time, as well as, able to manipulate keyboards, telephone keypads, and writing utensils is essential.  
Essential Functions

Association-Level Duties:

  • Develops and leads the strategic vision and direction for adaptive and inclusive programming across all branches.
  • Establishes association-wide policies, procedures, and best practices for serving individuals with diverse abilities.
  • Provides leadership in identifying and securing grant funding and philanthropic support for adaptive initiatives.
  • Tracks and analyzes data across branches to evaluate program impact, participant engagement, and accessibility.
  • Designs and facilitates training for branch staff on inclusive practices, adaptive recreation, disability awareness, and ADA compliance.
  • Serves as the association's subject matter expert on adaptive programming and inclusive practices.
  • Cultivates and maintains partnerships with disability service organizations, schools, government agencies, and advocacy groups.
  • Coordinates association-wide events, campaigns, or initiatives related to inclusive programming and accessibility.
    Represents the YMCA in community coalitions, advisory boards, and advocacy groups related to disability inclusion
     

Branch-Level Duties:

  • Provides direct support to branch staff in the design, implementation, and evaluation of adaptive programs in areas such as aquatics, sports, youth programs, fitness, childcare, and camp.
  • Assists branches in creating individualized participant plans and reasonable accommodations to ensure safe and inclusive participation.
  • Guides the recruitment, hiring, training, and supervision of adaptive program staff and volunteers at the branch level.
  • Supports branches in conducting accessibility audits and implementing physical and programmatic improvements.
  • Offers hands-on support during program launches, special events, or participant onboarding as needed.
  • Serves as a liaison between branches and families to address concerns, collect feedback, and foster positive participant experiences.
  • Ensures consistency in program delivery, quality standards, and participant outcomes across branches.
  • Other duties as assigned
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
  • Communication & Influence
  • Developing Self & Others
  • Engaging Community