Recreationist (Long-term Care)

**Division**:
Long Term Care Homes

**About Us**:
Serving a diverse urban and rural population of more than 475,000, Niagara Region is focused on building a strong and prosperous Niagara. Working collaboratively with 12 local area municipalities and numerous community partners, the Region delivers a range of high quality programs and services to support and advance the well-being of individuals, families and communities within its boundaries. Nestled between the great lakes of Erie and Ontario, the Niagara peninsula features some of Canada’s most fertile agricultural land, the majesty of Niagara Falls and communities that are rich in both history and recreational and cultural opportunities. Niagara boasts dynamic modern cities, Canada’s most developed wine industry, a temperate climate, extraordinary theatre, and some of Ontario’s most breathtaking countryside. An international destination with easy access to its binational U.S. neighbour New York State, Niagara attracts over 14 million visitors annually, as well as a steady stream of new residents and businesses.

Please note that the Niagara Region requires that all newly hired employees are to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of being hired and provide proof of full vaccination, or provide proof of a bona fide medical or Human Rights Code exemption on a form issued from and approved by Niagara Region.

**JOB SUMMARY**:
Responsible to plan, coordinate, implement, promote, and evaluate a diversified program of recreation activities for residents based on and responsive to their abilities, strengths, needs, interests, and former lifestyles.

**QUALIFICATIONS**:
**EDUCATION**:

- College Diploma in Recreation required
- Valid First Aid Certificate required
- Safe Food Handling preferred
- Certification in the SAM S.T.E.P.S model of exercise preferred
- Completed courses in special populations and Therapeutic Recreation preferred

**KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE**:

- A minimum of 6 months current experience in the recreation field working with special populations, preferably in a long term care setting
- Knowledge of community resources

**SKILLS**:

- Demonstrated leadership, collaboration and organizational skills.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Ability to work as part of an interdisciplinary team in a respectful manner
- Enthusiasm, flexibility and ability to cope with change
- Basic computer knowledge and skill. E.g. Microsoft Word, Outlook

**SPECIAL CONDITIONS**:

- In accordance with the Corporate Criminal Record Check Policy, the position requires the incumbent to undergo a Criminal Records Check and submit a Canadian Police Clearance Certificate, including a vulnerable sector search.
- Must be physically and mentally capable of performing the duties of the position, have an excellent rapport with people and demonstrated working ability with Senior Citizens
- Must have a good attendance record
- May be required to work at various locations

**RESPONSIBILITIES**:

- Plan, schedule, implement, and promote the daily, monthly, and annual activities and events, both within the facility and in the community. Ensure that the interests and capabilities of the residents are met.
- Ensure accessibility to leisure activities, encouraging and motivating residents to attend.
- Perform activities of daily living as needed for residents.
- Serve food and snacks to residents, being aware of special diets and needs.
- Give direction to volunteers and students.
- Document information regarding residents on relevant forms and documents, including care plans, progress notes, attendance records, and assessments in the Resident profiles. E.g. RAI-MDS, PCC, POC.
- Participation as a member of an interdisciplinary team, both within the department and within the facility.
- Maintain a close liaison with other departments, volunteers, families, residents, and community groups.
- Participate in meetings and committees as assigned.
- Requisition supplies and services for activities and events to the Program Manager.
- Prepare and distribute correspondence. Perform clerical duties specific to the department. E.g. electronic documentation and communications.
- Participate in the establishment of ongoing quality assurance and/or risk management activities, in conjunction with the department, in order to monitor the appropriateness and effectiveness of the department and program.
- Responsible for attending/participating in mandatory training sessions.
- Carry out duties consistent with the policies and procedures of the Regional Municipality of Niagara, and the Resident and Community Programs department.
- Assist in meal service and feeding residents as necessary.
- Porter residents as required.
- Follow and adhere to written Program Descriptions in compliance with the Long Term Care Standards.

**Shift Information**:
Recreationist positions include days and afternoons shifts shifts including weedkends and holidays. You must be willing and able to work up to 2