Education:

A qualified activities professional who is eligible for certification as a therapeutic recreation specialist, therapeutic assistant or an activities professional by a recognized accrediting body, such as the National council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification or the National Certification Council for Activity; or has completed an activity director 36 hour training course approved by the National Association for Activity Professional or the National Therapeutic Recreation Society. (PREFERRED)

1. Experience: Minimum of 2 years experience in a social or recreational program within the last five years, one of which was full-time in an activities program in a health care setting providing activities for the elderly with Alzheimer’s or dementia required.
2. Skills: Must possess effective written, verbal and non-verbal communication skills, stable emotional make-up, creative, caring, able to work under stress. Professional conduct, honoring boundaries, setting limits and maintaining confidentiality are a must. Must be able to plan, implement and evaluate an ongoing activity program. Must be able to order and maintain the supplies necessary to support the activity program. Must be able to work within a budget.
3. Physical Requirements: Must be able to meet physical demands of lifting and moving over 50 pounds, walking and standing for long periods of time.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Activity Director is responsible for all aspects of the Activity Program. This position requires a great deal of creativity and flexibility. The Activity Director must be able to provide direct care and supervision for residents when necessary. The Activity Director assures residents are kept safe during activities and items that are safety hazards are strictly controlled. The Activity Director assists the direct care staff in keeping the residents involved in the unit socially, cognitively, and recreationally.