Activities Specialist

Activities Specialist Forté Living | Independent Living Community of Aberdeen, 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…