Program Assistant

This role is accountable to the Activities Director and requires a self-motivated individual with excellent interpersonal and communication skills. The ability to engage positively and effectively with clients, staff, and caregivers is essential. The main focus of this position is the facilitation of daily life enrichment programs, with a key objective of maximizing participation and contributing valuable insights into the planning and organization of these programs.

Responsibilities

·        Responsible for the implementation of daily programming including coordination of meals, activities, and special events under the supervision and direction of the Activities Director.

·        Provides input to the Activities Director to develop monthly calendar that meets The Tender’s standards and the individual interests of the clients.

·        Execute daily activities that stimulate cognitive function, encourage social interaction, and provide sensory stimulation.

·        Assume responsibilities of the Activities Director when they are off-site.

·        Knows, understands, and demonstrates the organizations mission, philosophy, and vision.

·        Assist in organizing and coordination off all fundraising and special events as needed by the Executive Director.

·        Sets up and breaks down needed materials before/after programs.

·        Records and documents client participation and capabilities to contribute to the formulation of personalized care plans.

·        Utilize therapeutic techniques, such as validation therapy, reminiscence therapy, or art therapy, to support emotional well-being.

·        Observe residents for changes in behavior, mood, or physical condition and communicate any concerns to the care team.

·        Assists the Activities Director with ordering, maintaining, and securing needed supplies for the department. Informs Director of needed supplies and materials.

·        Prioritize customer service, creating a caring and compassionate atmosphere that respects individual needs, rights, strengths, and abilities.

·        Adhere to all relevant regulations and guidelines for dementia care and maintain a safe and sanitary environment.

·        Actively participate in staff meetings and collaborate with colleagues

·        Stay informed about the latest dementia care techniques and participate in ongoing training and professional development.

·        Ensures a tidy and well-organized program area, free from safety hazards

Qualifications

The Activities Assistant will be thoroughly committed to The Tender’s mission. All candidates should have experience in gerontology, recreational activities, or related field as well as interest in working with the elderly.

Specific requirements include:

• College Degree in related field, preferred or high school graduate with experience in gerontology or recreational activities preferred
• Demonstrates compassion, patience, and understanding when working with individuals with dementia.
• Demonstrated proficiency in using computer hardware, software, and operating systems relevant to the job requirements.
• Is organized, creative, and detail oriented
• Ability to create and adapt activities that engage and stimulate residents.
• Able to adjust activities based on residents' changing needs and moods.
• Excellent partnership skills and ability to work with others in a positive manner
• Works well in a collaborative care team environment.
• Flexible and cooperative approach to problem solving
• Understands the mission/vision of The Tender and can relate it to others
• Maintains a positive attitude that encourages participation and enthusiasm
• Respects other people’s viewpoints and skills, good listening and communication skills, willingness to compromise and collaborate
• Values diversity and helps to create an organizational culture that appreciates and respects differences
• Displays integrity, self-confidence, persuasiveness, decisiveness, and creativity
• Must be reliable and dependable

Additional Position Requirements:

·        Be honest, dependable and be able to perform the physical demands of the position.

·        Be in sufficient physical, mental and emotional health to perform his or her job duties

·        While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and use range of motion throughout the day. The employee is frequently required to walk and must be able to assist client with transfers, ambulation, and personal hygenie.

The physical demands described above are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.