Recreation Program Manager

_The Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society (VAFCS) is a non-profit charitable organization serving the Urban Aboriginal community with a mandate to provide programs and services that will contribute to the cultural, educational, social, economic, and recreational development of Urban Aboriginal people. The Society manages twenty-three programs and services through three locations in Vancouver. The Friendship Centre at 1607 East Hastings is a community-led organization creating meaningful change for the Urban Aboriginal Population that we serve. VAFCS is currently seeking an individual connected with Indigenous community, highly organized, and self-motivated to work with us_

**Position Summary**

We are looking for experienced **Recreation Program Manager **with leadership skills to join our exciting team here at the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre. If you have prior experience overseeing and managing the successful execution of multiple programs, we would love to have you on our team.

**Experience**:

- Organize and oversee educational, health, and social recreational programs and activities in alignment with VAFCS’s mission and goals. This includes developing new programs to support the organization's strategic direction.
- Provide comprehensive support including access to food, housing, medical care, social/recreational activities, and employment opportunities. Assist residents in developing skills in personal care, nutrition, household management, money management, and communication/interpersonal skills.
- Identify and analyze ongoing program risks and produce accurate, timely reports on program status throughout all phases of the program lifecycle.
- Foster and maintain positive working relationships with agencies and service sectors that support individuals with mental illness and/or substance use disorders.
- Contribute to mentorship services for students as part of the curriculum for established institutions and schools.
- Participate in “on-call” and “call-out” schedules to extend support to residents and families in the program.
- Hire, train, and supervise staff and volunteers, ensuring they possess the qualifications and skills necessary to deliver high-quality recreational services and maintain a safe, welcoming environment.
- Implement marketing and promotional strategies to enhance community awareness and participation in recreational programs, including social media campaigns, local advertising, and community outreach events.
- Conduct regular safety inspections and maintenance of recreational facilities and equipment to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, providing a safe environment for all participants.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of recreational programs and services through participant feedback, attendance records, and financial analysis. Adjust programs as needed to meet community needs and optimize resource use.
- Experience working with Indigenous organizations and a solid understanding of Indigenous culture, traditions, and lived history.
- Actively participate in VAFCS events and team-building activities.
- Perform other related responsibilities.

**Qualifications**:

- Bachelor’s degree in education or administration or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum of 3 years of related experience.
- Proven ability to work under pressure, independently with mínimal direction, take initiative, organize and prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
- Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with the public, co-workers, and staff from other agencies, and to handle interactions tactfully and effectively.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Experience working with Indigenous individuals and familiarity with Indigenous culture.
- Demonstrated interpersonal skills.
- Experience coordinating training and educational programs.
- Demonstrated time management and decision-making skills.
- Valid Class 5 Driver’s License and access to transportation.
- First Aid
- Driver’s License Certification
- Culture & Traditional Medicines
- Non-Violent Communication Techniques

**Job Types**: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 12 months

Pay: $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

**Benefits**:

- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Paid time off

Flexible language requirement:

- French not required

Schedule:

- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed

Licence/Certification:

- Class 5 Licence (required)

Work Location: In person