Activity Assistant

Are you creative, compassionate, and love working with seniors?
Red Oak Villa is looking for a warm, energetic Activity Assistant to join our Life Enrichment team. In this role, you’ll help bring joy, connection, and purpose to our residents through engaging programs and activities that support their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

What You'll Do:

• Assist in planning, organizing, and leading recreational programs such as games, crafts, music, fitness, and social events
• Encourage and support resident participation in both group and one-on-one activities
• Help set up, clean up, and escort residents to and from activities as needed
• Contribute to seasonal decorating and special events throughout the year
• Foster a warm, inclusive, and respectful environment for all residents

Skills & Qualifications:

· Diploma or degree in recreation/leisure studies, therapeutic recreation, gerontology from a recognized college or university is an asset.

· Previous experience working with seniors and in an activity department is an asset.

· A genuine interest in seniors and the ability to work well with those who have physical or cognitive limitations.

· Ability to read, write and effectively communicate (both written and oral) in English.

· Ability to follow direction and work in a team environment.

· Ability to establish and maintain good interpersonal relationships and rapport with staff, volunteers, residents and families.

· Ability to perform physical work; (i.e. serve tea/coffee, ability to lift up to 50lbs)

· Ability to work well independently and under pressure.

· Demonstrated out-going personality, organized, sensitive, enthusiastic, patient, tactful and mature.

· Demonstrated experience in planning, organizing and managing events is an asset.

· Demonstrated leadership, motivational and problem-solving skills to design and implement successful programs.

· Demonstrated effective organizational and time-management skills.

· Demonstrated capability of working efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

· Basic computer skills.

· An understanding of the needs and issues of the older adult is required.

· An understanding of effective Infection Prevention and Control practices is required.

· Driver’s license with clean driver’s abstract is an asset.

· Smart Serve & Safe Food Handlers Certification is mandatory.

· Good attendance record is required.

· Willingness to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends.

· Satisfactory Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening is required (dated within 6 months of start of employment).

· TB testing is required.

· Bilingualism is considered an asset.

Tasks & Responsibilities:

· Assist in the internal and external programs that enrich the lives of each resident.

· Assist in interviewing and assessing residents’ social history, spiritual lifestyle, important memories and losses, family dynamics and contacts, and language abilities.

· Assist with the management of the volunteer program, including orientation, motivation and development of the volunteers.

· Assist in the planning, organizing and execution of the monthly activity schedule.

· Create an enjoyable, relaxed and entertaining environment in the home and assume responsibility for the morale and well-being of residents.

· Serve tea and coffee in the dining room during meal hour. Assist with the clearing of dishes.

· Communicate with each resident on a regular basis.

· Assist in the planning, organizing, writing and publishing of the monthly newsletter containing a variety of articles and information for distribution to the residents and their families.

· Maintain positive relationships with community organizations.

· Participate in educational in-services.

· Maintain safe work practices.

· Have a full understanding of and practice Infection Prevention and Control policies.

· Be knowledgeable of and practice the facility’s fire and safety programs.

· Participate/lead/manage activities in the following areas (but not limited to):

o Tuck shop, Regular parties, Therapeutic recreations, Exercises, Arts and crafts, Counselling, Music events, Community Events, Fundraising, Educational functions, Cocktail bar, Library services.

· Maintain proper equipment, demonstrate activities, and ensuring safety for all participants

· Work collaboratively and promote positive team spirit within the department

· Expectation of commitment to professional development to be demonstrated on an on-going basis both personally and professionally in relation to therapeutic recreation and staying current with the trends in the industry

· Seeks direction from the Program Manager when resident need exceeds experience or scope of practice

· Follows all corporate policies and procedures

· Maintain good attendance record according to company policy

· Senior staff to assist in the orientation and training of new employees

· Attends departmental and Home’s staff meetings, in-services and other necessary training sessions

· Perform other duties that are necessary and appropriate which may be assigned by the Activity Coordinator or Administrator

Why Join Red Oak Villa?

• Supportive and caring team environment
• Make a real difference in residents’ lives every day
• Opportunity to grow your skills in senior care and recreation
• A beautiful workplace and meaningful community atmosphere

While we thank all applicants, only those under consideration for the position will be contacted. If you require accommodation during any stage of the recruitment process, please notify Human Resources. We are committed to employment equity and providing accessible employment practices that are in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities (AODA) and the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation.

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: $17.20-$18.40 per hour

Benefits:

• Discounted or free food
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person