Recreation Assistant

Recreation Assistant (Community Alzheimer Program)

**Job Number**:3233

**Job Type**: Temporary Part-Time
**Temp Contract Length**: Up to 18 months
**Location**: 150 Main St - 150 Main
**Number of Positions**:1
**Division**: Community Services
**Hours of Work**: 46 hours biweekly, 0900-1500
- Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri
- Community Alzheimer Program

**Union**: Unifor 1106
**Grade**: Unifor 1106 Grade 004
**Salary Range**: $27.81 - $29.20 per hour

**About Us**

The Region of Waterloo is a thriving, diverse community committed to fostering opportunities for current and future generations. Waterloo Region is part of the Dish with One Spoon wampum, a treaty guiding our commitment to:

- Taking only what we need
- Leaving some for others
- Keeping the dish clean
- This agreement underpins our vision, mission, and core value, and reinforces our dedication to meaningful reconciliation and equity.
- Waterloo Region is home to over 674,000 residents and expected to grow to nearly one million by 2051.
- Guided by our 2023-2027 Strategic Plan, “Growing with Care,” we prioritize homes for all, climate aligned growth, equitable services and opportunities and a resilient and future ready organization. Our mission is to provide essential services that enhance the quality of life for all residents, while our core value emphasizes caring for people and the land we share. Join us and be part of a team dedicated to making a meaningful difference in our community.

**The Role**
- Assists Recreation Therapist to implement and monitor programming for Community Alzheimer Program participants.**Duties/Responsibilities**
- Provides direct care and programming for participants in the Community Alzheimer Program. Organizes and implements recreation programs designed for program participants living with dementia.
- Monitors program participants, ensuring their safety and well-being. Works individually with participants to assist with activities and provides assistance (e.g., transferring, toileting, feeding).
- Promotes participation in one-on-one and group settings.
- Documents participant observations in progress notes and at service planning meetings.
- Keeps knowledge and skills current by participating in in-service programs, staff meetings, and seminars.
- Monitors program supplies and purchases same, as required.
- Performs related duties as assigned.

**Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities**
- Knowledge of the aging process, specifically the stages, manifestations, and behaviours of dementia; as well planning and implementing activities for persons living with dementia, normally acquired through a Community College Diploma in Recreation or equivalent plus directly related experience implementing social and recreational programs.
- Knowledge of best practices in caring for persons living with dementia (e.g., gentle persuasive approach, U-first, Montessori).
- Knowledge of and ability follow corporate policies, procedures, and standards.
- A tuberculosis (TB) test and annual influenza immunization are required.
- Human relations and communication skills to respond pleasantly and professionally to demands; communicate effectively with staff, participants, and their families; interact with and have a basic understanding of the geriatric population; and participate as an effective member of a therapeutic team.
- Ability to write progress notes on participant behavior, per guidelines. Ability to read articles and communications to keep knowledge current.
- Computer skills using software such as Microsoft Office, electronic health records, and the internet.
- Must provide an acceptable Police Vulnerable Sector Check (level 3).
- Ability to work days, evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays as part of a set schedule.
- Ability to travel to locations within Waterloo Region.
- Ability to support and project the Region’s values.