Activities Coordinator or Recreation Specialist

Role:

Also known as Activities Coordinator or Recreation Specialist, plays a crucial role in planning, organizing, and implementing recreational programs and activities. These include:

• Activity Planning: Develop and plan recreational programs and activities based on the interests and needs of the clients. This could include fitness classes, arts and crafts, games, outings, and social events.

• Program Implementation: Execute and oversee the implementation of planned recreational activities. This involves coordinating logistics, ensuring necessary supplies are available, and providing support to participants.

• Participant Engagement: Actively engage participants and encourage their involvement in recreational activities. Recreation Coordinators often work to create a positive and inclusive atmosphere that fosters social interaction and enjoyment.

• Assessment of Participant Needs: Assess the interests, preferences, and needs of participants to tailor recreational programs to their preferences. This may involve conducting surveys, interviews, or observations.

• Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other staff members, volunteers, and community partners to enhance the variety and quality of recreational programs offered.

• Resource Management: Manage the resources allocated for recreational programs, ensuring that expenses are within limits and used efficiently.

• Documentation: Maintain accurate records of program attendance, participant feedback, and other relevant information. Documentation is crucial for program evaluation and improvement.

• Safety and Risk Management: Ensure the safety of participants during recreational activities. This includes identifying and mitigating potential risks and having plans in place for emergencies.

• Communication: Effectively communicate with participants, staff, and other stakeholders to promote upcoming activities, gather feedback, and address any concerns.

• Training and Supervision: Train and supervise staff or volunteers involved in implementing recreational programs. This may include providing guidance on activity planning, safety procedures, and participant engagement.

• Adaptability: Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability to accommodate the diverse needs and abilities of participants. This is particularly important when working with individuals of varying ages, abilities, and interests.

• Evaluation and Improvement: Evaluate the success of recreational programs, gather feedback from participants, and adjust for continuous improvement. This may involve assessing the impact of programs on the well-being and satisfaction of participants.

Qualification:

Education: A bachelor's degree in Recreation Management, Leisure Studies, Therapeutic Recreation, Activation, or a related field.

Certification: Certification from relevant professional organizations. Examples include Activity Professionals of Ontario, Recreation Professionals of Ontario, Therapeutic Recreation of Ontario, etc.

Experience: Relevant work experience in recreation planning, program development, or related field is preferred. Experience in coordinating recreational activities, especially in the specific setting of the employer (e.g., healthcare, senior living, community centers), is valuable.

Knowledge of Recreation Principles: A strong understanding of recreation principles, activity planning, and program development. This includes knowledge of various recreational activities suitable for different age groups and populations.

Communication Skills: Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, are crucial. Recreation Coordinators need to convey information about programs, engage participants, and collaborate with staff, volunteers, and community partners.

Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills are essential for planning and coordinating recreational activities, managing resources, and ensuring the smooth operation of programs.

Creativity: Creativity is important for designing engaging and varied recreational programs that cater to the interests and needs of participants.

Interpersonal Skills: Good interpersonal skills are necessary for building positive relationships with participants, staff, volunteers, and other stakeholders.

Adaptability: The ability to adapt programs to meet the diverse needs of participants, including those with varying abilities, interests, and backgrounds.

Leadership Skills: Leadership qualities are valuable for overseeing staff or volunteers involved in program implementation, providing guidance, and fostering a positive team environment.

Resource Management: The role may involve resource management responsibilities, so familiarity with resource processes and management is beneficial.

Computer Skills: Proficiency in using computer software for program planning, communication, and record-keeping.

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift (8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, breaks included) everyday except weekends

• Day shift

• Evening shift

• Monday to Friday

• Morning shift

• Night shift

• On call

• Weekends as needed