I went to school to become a special ed teacher, but did that for two years and recently resigned from my position. I still want to work with individuals (preferably children/teens) with disabilities, but not in a school setting. I used to work for a special rec assosiation, but want something full time and can't find any full time positions available in my area. I would be really interested in doing event planning, program coordination, inclusion facilitation, etc. Does anyone know of any resources I can use to help me find available positions in this area of work? I live near Chicago. Are there any national agencies that I should try? I tried Best Buddies, but they didn't have anything, and I'm not that familiar with others. Please help, I'm excited to start a new job but can't seem to locate the type of position I am looking for.
2007-01-18 13:11:28 · 6 answers · asked by Angie W 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Special Education
Why don't you contact some group homes. I know Deveraux is a big company that works with special needs people of all ages. Group home may be something you might be interested in b/c you can still work with special needs people. A good source might be your county's office of mental retardation &/or mental health. Call and ask them if they can provide names of agencies for you.
United Cerebral Palsy, Unicef or Easter Seals might also have some opportunities for you.
Another option...a little out of the range you mentioned is sales. Publishing companies always look for teachers to sell text books and/or materials. You would go to conventions, schools, universities, etc. and demonstrate the products. I know others who left teaching and did very well with this business.
Good luck to you!
2007-01-18 13:57:08 · answer #1 · answered by lolabellaquin 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I support individuals with disabilities and I believe it is the most fasinating and rewarding field ever! I live in Canada, and Im assuming you live in the States. A lot of organizations are non-profitable organizations here (where there is no money to be made). The government jobs are where the money is at, and where there is room for advancement. I would check the government jobs in your state, and network through people you have met. Do research on the web about different organizations and what these organizations entail. Hope it helps...;.good luck and happy job hunting!
2007-01-18 19:35:57 · answer #2 · answered by fingerpretty 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would suggest you contact the disability advocacy agencies in your area--those that focus on empowerment, not the exploitative ones like MDA or Goodwill.
These agencies can help you find legitimate programs that actually help children--and if you don't find something quickly, you might want to do some volunteer work for them--its certainly worthwhile and will allow you to network.
Good luck!
2007-01-18 13:55:49 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
see if there's some sports team for kids/teens with disabilities. I know my area has a program like that that's a soccer team. Maybe your area has one similar.
2007-01-18 13:15:46 · answer #4 · answered by the Politics of Pikachu 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
hi, why dont you try camphill rudolf stiener there are schools special villages just type in ther web site i worked there for four years fantastic
2007-01-21 04:01:49 · answer #5 · answered by kouros 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
craigslist.com has a volunteer and nonprofit section you could check out. Good luck!
2007-01-20 10:18:24 · answer #6 · answered by queenrakle 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋