Therapeutic Recreation Assistant

**Position**: Therapeutic Recreation Assistant (TRA)
**Location**: 1 Jim Flaherty St., Whitby, ON
**Assignment**: Part-time, Hourly
**Pay Rate**: $19.49 per hour. We also offer access to our superb sport, fitness, and recreational facilities.
**Start Date**: Oct 2025
You Belong
We exist to unlock potential through the innovation of accessibility and to create a better, barrier-free life for all Canadians. We strive to achieve this by reimagining accessibility and redefining the way Canadians live, work and play. Our organization values being person-centred, genuine, flexible, innovative, and collaborative.
We understand that no one will ever meet all the qualifications or feel completely confident in performing every duty listed, and that’s okay We are committed to the ongoing learning and development of our employees and gladly provide on-the-job training and mentorship. Unless it says required (bolded for emphasis), please do not let any other qualification or duty discourage you from applying.
**The Position**:
Reporting to the Manager, Recreation and Supervisor, Therapeutic Recreation, the Therapeutic Recreation Assistant (TRA) is responsible for planning and implementing a variety of recreational programs for individuals with and without disabilities. The TRA provides support to the Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (TRS) to facilitate programs/activities that improve and enhance the overall health, well-being, and quality of life through meaningful recreation and leisure activities.
**What You’ll Do**:
Support.
- You will work with the Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (TRS) team to facilitate activities with participants.
- You will work with the TR leadership team to collect and provide feedback on programs, maintain attendance lists.
- You will participate in de-briefs with the team to discuss challenges, concerns, and successes of the program.
- You will manage and maintain program equipment and supplies.

Build Relationships.
- You will ensure a safe, healthy, inclusive, and positive environment for all participants, staff, and volunteers while engaged in any Therapeutic Recreation program.
- You will establish rapport and maintain effective relationships with members, support workers, participant families, staff, volunteers, and community partners.
- You will work collaboratively with the TRS’ to use a variety of therapeutic tools and techniques that focus on and promote inclusion of all activities to meet the changing needs and abilities of individuals.
- You are familiar with and desire/passion to work with youth and adults with disabilities.

Administration.
- You will document and inform TR leadership team of any changes or incidents.
- You will attend staff meetings as required. You will perform other duties as assigned.

**What You’ll Bring**:
Education and Experience.
- You have a diploma/degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreation & Leisure Studies, are in progress of completing your diploma/degree, or a doing education in a related field.
- You have a passion for working with people with disabilities (work experience is considered an asset).
- You have experience utilizing redirection and de-escalation strategies to support participants.

Technical Skills and Knowledge.
- You have exceptional oral and written communication skills and are comfortable presenting to large group in a variety of settings with varied audiences.
- You are proficient in use of Microsoft Office products.
- You have knowledge of inclusion, accessibility, and accommodation.
- You are effective in planning, organizing and time management skills, and able to work independently without close supervision.
- You are dedicated to a participant experience that exceeds expectations, and inspire confidence, resilience, and self-esteem in participants through respect, acceptance, and by focusing on strengths and achievements.
- You have a positive attitude, interact well with clients, participants, and fellow employees, and foster an environment that values and encourages teamwork and empowerment.
- You are self-motivated, and results-oriented; demonstrates initiative and contributes to a work environment that values and encourages innovation.
- You follow and support the values and mission of the Abilities Centre.

Administrative Requirements.
- It is required that you have a current, clear criminal record check for the vulnerable sector to work at Abilities Centre.
- It is required that you have current, valid First Aid and CPR ‘C’ / AED.
- Crisis Intervention and Prevention Certification is considered an asset.
- You have access to reliable transportation for travel, possess a valid driver’s license, and are flexible regarding work schedule. You are able to work evenings.

**How to Apply**: