Northbrook Park District Increases Employee Wages and Offers $1,000 Bonus for Adventure Campus Before and After School Care Program
The Adventure Campus before and after school program offered by Northbrook Park District has been an integral part of the recreation offerings for the community for 30 years. From August through June, the program typically serves over 500 children annually in Northbrook School District 27 and Northbrook/Glenview school Districts 30 and 31.
Due to staff shortages, there are wait lists at all program locations including Hickory Point, Shabonee, Wescott, Willowbrook and Winkelman schools. The Park District currently needs over 40 additional employees in order to serve both the families currently enrolled as well as those on the wait lists.
The Northbrook Park District Board of Commissioners and staff members understand the importance of this essential service and are striving to fill the open positions in order to serve the community and accommodate wait lists.
The District has added several hiring incentives including starting pay of $15-$20 per hour, recreation benefits, and a retention bonus program. Those who apply by July 11, to be an Adventure Campus Counselor or Site Director will be eligible for a $1,000 bonus to be paid as $250 in August, $250 in December and $500 in June. Recreation benefits include a free membership to Techny Prairie Activity Center, Northbrook Park District pools or Anetsberger Golf Course - with memberships starting as early as this summer. Some of these incentives are only available for a limited time and specific eligibility requirements apply.
According to Director of Recreation Eileen Loftus, "We are hopeful our new initiatives will attract members of the community who have availability during the before or after school hours to take advantage of the pay, incentives and recreation benefits. We have something to offer all applicants as we work together to serve families in the Northbrook community."
Adventure Campus offers a variety of shifts including morning shifts from 6:45 a.m., to the school start time at each location; from school dismissal time to 4 p.m., 5 p.m. or 6 p.m.; and flexible start times for high school students. The maximum bonus of $1,000 will be available to those working three to five days per week, with a prorated bonus option for one to two days per week.
Matt Bolon has a child in the Adventure Campus program at Hickory Point School in Northbrook District 27. He shared, "As a single parent who works full time, Adventure Campus is a godsend. I know that my daughter is being cared for by responsible and fun staff who cherish spending time with her. The Adventure Campus staff fosters an inclusive, safe, and fun environment with some structure, where the kids are free to pursue the activities that most interest them. For my daughter, that means lots of art projects and playing with friends in all grades, but it also means being active and running around on the playground or playing games and other activities. There is something for everyone."
Paid training is provided. For high school and college aged students, a position with Adventure Campus can provide the opportunity to earn money, learn responsibility, gain job and leadership skills, and build their resumes and college applications. Adults of all ages also find value in and being connected with the community in an impactful way. Staff members enjoy flexible schedules, experience the joy of working with children, and provide a much-needed service for parents.
For more information about Adventure Campus positions, visit nbparks.co/adventure or call 847-291-2995.
Established in 1927, Northbrook Park District's Mission is to enhance the community by providing outstanding services, parks and facilities through environmental, social and financial stewardship.