Meridian Housing Foundation (MHF), based in the Town of Stony Plain, AB, is a non-profit organization established in 1960. Our purpose is to provide affordable housing solutions for residents of the Tri-Region area through supportive lodge living for seniors, financial subsidies for eligible residents, and self-sustaining affordable housing programs. As our organization continues to grow, we are seeking an Activities Coordinator for our Horizon View Lodge in Spruce Grove, AB.
The Activities Coordinator is responsible for planning, developing, promoting, coordinating, and evaluating engaging programs, activities, outings, and special events that enhance the quality of life for residents. This role creates meaningful recreational, social, cultural, educational, and wellness opportunities that support residents' physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being while respecting their individual interests, abilities, and preferences. Working collaboratively with residents, staff, volunteers, and community partners, the Activities Coordinator fosters an inclusive, welcoming environment that encourages participation, independence, social connection, and a strong sense of community within the lodge.
Key responsibilities
Specific duties and responsibilities of this position shall include but not be limited to the following:
Resident Programs & Engagement
- Recreation Programming: Develop, implement, and maintain a monthly recreation and events calendar. Plan a variety of recreational, educational, social, and wellness activities, including games, art, exercises, and entertainment, that meet the interests and abilities of residents. Adapt activities to accommodate varying levels of physical and cognitive ability. Encourage resident participation while promoting independence, inclusion, and choice.
- Resident Support: Welcome and orient new residents to available recreation programs. Provide compassionate support and encouragement to residents during activities. Observe resident participation and communicate concerns or changes to the appropriate team members.
- Community Building: Foster opportunities for residents to build friendships and remain socially connected. Promote an inclusive environment that values resident feedback and participation. Build positive relationships with residents' families, community organizations, schools, volunteers, and local businesses. Encourage community involvement through partnerships and intergenerational programming.
- Resident Safety: Ensure activities are conducted in a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment. Follow infection prevention and control practices during recreation programming. Conduct risk assessments for outings and special events.
- Resident Communications: Develop and distribute promotional materials for recreation programs and events. Collaborate with the Lodge Manager to create the resident newsletter. Promote upcoming activities through posters and other communication methods.
- Event Coordination: Support the development of special events, seasonal celebrations, family gatherings, and fundraising activities with Lodge Manager. Plan and accompany residents on community outings, ensuring appropriate supervision and safety. Decorate the lodge for holidays, seasonal events, and special occasions.
Program Administration & Operations
- Program Administration: Track resident attendance records and evaluate resident participation. Document relevant information in communication logs and required documentation. Monitor resident satisfaction with recreation and activity programs through surveys and feedback, and identify opportunities for continuous improvement. Support the development and review of recreation-related policies and procedures.
- Budget & Resources: Monitor recreation supply inventory. Purchase recreation supplies within approved budget guidelines. Ensure activity equipment is maintained in a safe and organized manner. Manage the Resident Comfort Fund in accordance with organizational policies and procedures.
- Operational Support: Coordinate recreation programming with other departments. Perform additional administrative duties as assigned by the Lodge Manager.
Volunteer Coordination
- Volunteer Support: Oversee the recruitment, orientation, and scheduling of volunteers. Oversee volunteers working resident activities. Foster positive working relationships between volunteers, residents, and staff. Provide guidance and supervision to volunteers participating in activities and events. Ensure volunteers understand their responsibilities and organizational expectations.
- Volunteer Engagement: Recognize volunteer contributions and support volunteer retention. Facilitate effective communication between volunteers and staff.
Key skills and qualifications
- Education: Diploma or Degree in recreation, physical therapy or related field is desired. An Activity Coordinator's Certificate is an asset.
- Experience: A minimum of two years of experience planning, coordinating, and delivering recreational or leisure programs, preferably in a seniors' setting.
- Adaptability: Ability to adjust to changing schedules, resident needs, and priorities while maintaining a positive, flexible approach in a dynamic environment.
- Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively address complaints, issues, and inquiries.
- Conflict Resolution: Ability to manage difficult situations with professionalism, diplomacy, and respect while working toward positive outcomes.
- Customer Service: Ability to interact in a friendly, respectful, and inclusive manner. Demonstrates patience, empathy, and a positive attitude.
- Planning & Organization: Strong organizational skills with the ability to plan, coordinate, and facilitate engaging recreational programs, special events, and daily activities while managing multiple priorities effectively.
- Problem-Solving: Exceptional critical thinking and problem-solving skills with the ability to navigate complex issues.
- Relationship Building: Ability to establish and maintain positive, trusting relationships with residents, families, volunteers, coworkers, and community partners through collaboration, compassion, and respect.
- Resident-Centred Care: Demonstrates a commitment to person-centred care by respecting residents' choices, abilities, cultural backgrounds, dignity, and independence when planning and delivering programs.
- Technical Skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Time Management: Excellent time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and efficiently coordinate multiple activities and events while ensuring quality resident experiences.
Working conditions
- This is a full-time position.
- Work Hours are scheduled Monday to Friday with flexibility required for resident activities and events.
- This position is based at either Whispering Waters Manor/Forest Ridge Place (Stony Plain, AB) or Horizon View Lodge (Spruce Grove, AB).
- Training or certification in First Aid/CPR.
- Must possess or be willing to obtain ProServe certification.
- Ability to lift, carry, push, and move up to 25 lbs. Regular physical activity is required, including setting up and taking down tables, chairs, and activity equipment; leading and participating in resident exercise, recreation, and wellness programs; and standing, walking, bending, reaching, and participating in activities throughout the workday.
Salary and benefits
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
- Benefits package including health insurance and pension.
- Professional development opportunities.
This competition will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. This competition may be used to fill future vacancies with Meridian Housing Foundation, at the same or lower classification level.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Dental care
- Discounted or free food
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
Work Location: In person
