Seasonal Program Support
Reports To: Lisa Arp, Social Enterprise Director
Melanie Stewart, Child and Youth Programs Director
Hours: 32.5 – 35 hours/week (Occasional weekends and evenings required)
Rate: $18.50 / hour Duration: June 29, 2026 – September 4, 2026
Summary
The Seasonal Program Support position facilitates the diverse programming needs of Heartland Forest. This role includes direct program facilitation, logistical set-up and tear-down, general facility maintenance, program administration, and daily operational support to ensure a vibrant and accessible experience for all participants and visitors.
Responsibilities
All responsibilities are to be executed in accordance with Heartland Forest’s Administrative policies.
Program Support (Adult Day & Forest Discovery Programs)
- Aid program participants in completing assigned tasks or activities while fostering an environment of encouragement.
- Maintain constant awareness of participant locations and schedules to ensure safety and engagement.
- Assist participants with transitions between activities and program areas.
- Note: While providing encouragement and aid, please note that 1:1 dedicated support is the responsibility of the participant’s family/guardian.
Program Preparation & Maintenance
- Execute the setup of games, equipment, craft materials, and learning resources.
- Contribute to the development and creative design of new programming activities.
- Perform general administrative tasks related to program tracking and documentation.
- Maintain the cleanliness of program rooms, equipment, and the general facility.
- Provide timely, detailed information to supervisors for incident reporting when required.
Reception & Public Relations
- Manage the reception area, including opening/closing duties and adherence to all security and cash-handling procedures.
- Act as an ambassador for Heartland Forest, providing information and answering inquiries from the general public.
- Monitor, clean, and restock the Discovery Atrium activity tables.
- Manage incoming phone calls, assisting with inquiries or directing messages to the appropriate team members.
Core Competencies
- Compassionate Communication: A supportive individual who understands the philosophy required to enhance participant functioning and independence.
- Collaboration: Ability to work effectively both independently and within a multi-disciplinary team of staff and volunteers.
- Organization: Strong ability to plan, prioritize, and follow detailed instructions accurately.
- Reliability: Consistently present and dependable for all scheduled shifts.
Education and Experience
- Education: Enrollment in or completion of post-secondary education in Disability Studies, Recreation Therapy, Education, Environmental Studies, or a related field.
- Experience: Previous experience in the service industry or working within recreation/disability programming is highly valued.
- Requirements: Valid First Aid and CPR certification.
- A clear Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS).
Work Conditions
- Physical Requirements: Involves physical labor, including the ability to lift up to 50 lbs (e.g., moving tables and chairs).
- Environment: Must be comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions and walking long distances over uneven terrain.
- Flexibility: Required to assist at Heartland Forest special events and work a flexible schedule including weekends.
Note: This job profile indicates the general nature and level of work expected. It is not designed to cover a comprehensive listing of all activities. The incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as assigned to support the mission of Heartland Forest.
Pay: $18.50 per hour
Work Location: In person
