Activities Specialist
Forté Living | Independent Living Community of Brookings, SD
Job Overview
Forté Living is seeking an energetic, creative, and resident-focused Activities Specialist to help bring engaging programs and experiences to life in our vibrant independent living community.
The Activities Specialist assists with the delivery of resident-centered activities and programs designed to support whole-person wellness. Under the supervision and direction of the Area Activity Manager, Property Manager, and Regional Manager, this role helps create opportunities that support the five dimensions of Therapeutic Recreation:
- Physical
- Social
- Emotional
- Cognitive
- Spiritual
This role is ideal for someone who loves working with older adults, enjoys planning events and outings, and thrives in a lively community environment.
Schedule
Flexible AM and PM hours with occasional evening or weekend shifts for events and activities 20-25 hours per week.
Key Responsibilities
- Activities and Program Development
- Assist in planning, organizing, and leading engaging programs that enhance residents’ physical, social, cognitive, and emotional well-being.
- Facilitate group and individual activities including fitness classes, games, arts and crafts, educational programs, music events, and social gatherings.
- Help coordinate and lead community outings, excursions, and special events.
- Support programs of all sizes, from small group activities to large community events of 200+ residents.
- Encourage resident participation and promote an active, independent lifestyle.
Resident Engagement
- Get to know residents and understand their interests, passions, and goals.
- Create welcoming opportunities for residents to connect socially and stay mentally and physically active.
- Foster a positive, inclusive community environment where residents feel valued and engaged.
- Respond to resident feedback and communicate requests or concerns to supervisors.
Community Partnerships and Events
- Coordinate with local organizations, businesses, and restaurants for weekly presentations, demonstrations, outings, and special programming.
- Assist with reservations, event logistics, and vendor coordination.
Help cultivate relationships with volunteers and community partners.
Social Media and Communication
- Assist with brainstorming and creating engaging social media posts that highlight community events and resident life.
- Help post and share content on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.
- Support marketing efforts by sharing the vibrant life within the community.
Activity Operations
- Maintain activity areas in a clean, organized, and welcoming environment.
- Assist with inventory and organization of activity supplies, games, craft materials, and program resources.
- Drive a 12-passenger van for off-site activities and community outings.
Resident-Centered Focus
- Foster positive resident relations and respond to resident requests, directing feedback and requests to the appropriate supervisor when necessary.
- Maintain and protect the confidentiality of resident information.
- Partner with the community team to ensure compliance with OSHA requirements and promotion of risk management programs and policies.
- Follow all safety procedures including use of personal protective equipment (PPE), fire safety practices, MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets), and Lockout/Tagout procedures.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
- One year of related experience preferred, ideally in a senior living community, recreation program, hospitality, or event planning role.
- Ability to work semi-independently while collaborating with a team.
- Ability to lead activities with high energy and enthusiasm.
- Ability to handle multiple priorities and adapt to changing schedules.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to lead small and large group presentations.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Demonstrates good judgment, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Ability to make responsible choices and act in a resident’s best interest.
- Ability to work independently without direct supervision by following community procedures and guidelines and completing assigned tasks.
Computer Skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Gmail, Canva, Facebook, and Instagram, with the ability to learn additional applications as needed.
Additional Requirements
- Valid driver’s license required.
- Reliable transportation to and from Forte Living of Brookings, SD
- Ability to drive a 12-passenger van.
- Minimal travel required for community outings and events.
General Notes
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Additional responsibilities may be assigned by the supervisor as needed to support the community and its residents.
