ANNOPOLIS COUNTY MUNICIPAL HOUSING COORPORATION

MOUNTAIN LEA LODGE/THE MEADOWS ARC/WILLOW VALE SUPERVISED APARTMENTS

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position: Recreation Programmer ACMHC Department: Recreation

Position function: The Recreation Programmer reports to the Manager of Recreation and is accountable for the design, implementation, coordination and evaluation of person centered care related to resident’s recreational and leisure wellbeing. The Recreation Programmer creates the program plan that will achieve the goals that align with the mission and values of the organization. This position requires some evening, weekend and holiday work depending on program functions. Is able to work in an environments that have plants and animals, as well as working outdoors. Must be able to bend, lift, and stretch as required for job performance. The ACMHC provides services for adults who may have physical limitations, intellectual disabilities, mental health illness or dementia who, from time to time when upset, may exhibit behaviour issues.

Work Performed:

•  Promote the therapeutic value of recreation programs and activities to staff.

•  Initiate, plan, develop and implement large group and individual programs for Residents.

•  Support continuing care staff to plan, develop and deliver low key and individual activities for Residents.

•  Continuously collaborate with Residents/Clients, Staff, family members and others to identify, develop, and implement meaningful activities, events, and simple pleasures for the enjoyment of Residents.

•  Communicate timely and accurate information with interdisciplinary team. Participate in discussions as required.

•  Meet with Residents/Clients and complete assessments and re-assessments.

•  Adapt activities to meet the needs and the ability levels of Residents as per guidance and direction by OT, PT and PTA and collaboration with other professionals.

•  Create and maintain a positive atmosphere of warmth, and personal interest with the Residents.

•  Spends one-on-one time with Residents.

•  Lead large event activities and take responsibility for any associated equipment, vehicles and supplies and coordination of volunteers.

•  Assume responsibility for Resident care and safety during activities, programs and outings led by the Recreation Department.

•  Partner and co-operate with staff, Residents and families to promote effective communication.

•  Promote a positive working relationship with and among other Departments.

•  Provide support to the Recreation Manager by coordinating Volunteer and Students placements as follows:

o  Assist with orientation training, support, coordination, scheduling and evaluation of Volunteer and Students as directed.

o  Assist with sourcing/recruiting and engaging volunteers and community groups as directed.

o  Ensure family and volunteer mailing and phone lists are regularly updated.

•  Assist with periodic reviews of program effectiveness and reorganize programs as necessary.

•  Prepare and post notices for events and activities.

•  Be in possession of a valid Class 5 Driver’s License.

•  Transport Residents to and from outings as assigned.

Administrative Duties

•  Maintain accurate charts of Residents’ activities; update database information.

•  Meet with new Residents and complete recreation survey.

•  Provide staff with Resident assessment report as per licensing requirements.

•  Provide Management with updates on activities and planning initiatives.

•  Assist with fund raising.

•  Assist with the monthly updates and calendars, including information gathering, layout, design, and typing.

•  Ensure Residents’ families receive special event invitations, correspondence and email correspondence as appropriate.

•  Respond in a timely manner to all emails and voice messages.

•  Maintain confidentiality standards and practices with regard to all pertinent records to ensure Residents’ rights are protected.

•  Attend resident interdisciplinary meetings and other meetings as assigned and update Kardex notes for recreation.

•  Prepare agenda, facilitate, record and distribute minutes of Resident Council meetings and Family Council meetings, forwarding concerns to appropriate staff to address.

•  Attend Family Council Meetings as directed.

•  Collaborate in the organization, purchase and maintenance of recreation department resources.

•  Work collaboratively within the ACMHC recreation department.

•  Maintain confidentiality concerning: resident information in accordance with PHIA (NS Personal Health Information Act) as well as employee and department information.

•  Conduct oneself in a professional manner at all times to enhance the public image of the facility.

•  Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

•  Completion of a Recreation Therapy Degree/ Diploma, or related Degree/ Diploma with a specialization in recreation/leisure/community development.

•  Experience planning recreation programs & activities for adults in long term care settings.

•  Interpersonal skills- empathy and supportive and sensitive to people.

•  Leadership skills- Good organization and planning skills, creative problem solver, good listening skills, clear oral and written skills.

•  Valid Nova Scotia driver’s license and ability to transport residents as required.

Preferred:

•  Certifications: First Aid/CPR, Behavioural Crisis Intervention Training (MANDT, NVCI).

•  Musical ability an asset.

•  Experience in garden therapy or willingness to learn.

May be required to work multiple sites as required.

Revised May 2016 Page 1 of 2