ACTIVITIES ASSISTANT WEEKENDS

Viva Senior Living; Glassboro (NJ); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Viva Senior Living in Glassboro, NJ, is seeking an Activities Assistant for a part-time weekend position to support the Activities Director in planning and delivering a comprehensive enrichment program for residents.

You will help organize daily activities, escort residents to events, document participation, and collaborate with care teams to promote engagement, safety, and quality of life for residents, including those with dementia.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience with seniors and dementia/cognition preferred.
• Experience in recreation, activities programming, hospitality, or customer service.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred; ADC/CDP certifications are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning, organizing, and implementing daily activities and events.
• Support group and individual activities to encourage participation and engagement.
• Help set up and break down activity spaces, equipment, and supplies.
• Escort and transport residents to activities as needed.
• Document resident participation and communicate needs to the team.
• Maintain safe, clean, and welcoming activity spaces.
• Collaborate with nursing, dining and other departments.
• Participate in staff trainings and holiday events.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Compassion

Lead group activities

Creativity

Independent & teamwork

Org & time management

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Description

Part Time Weekend Position

Position Summary

The Activities Assistant supports the Activities Director in planning, organizing, and implementing a comprehensive activities and life enrichment program designed to meet the physical, social, emotional, spiritual, and cognitive needs of residents in an assisted living community. The Activities Assistant helps promote resident engagement, independence, and quality of life through meaningful programming and interactions.

Essential Job Responsibilities

Program Support

• Assist in the planning, organization, and implementation of daily activities and special events for residents.
• Support group and individual activities that encourage resident participation and engagement.
• Help set up and break down activity spaces, equipment, and supplies.
• Assist with outings, community events, and transportation of residents when needed.
• Encourage resident participation and provide one-on-one engagement with residents who may require additional support.

Resident Engagement

• Build positive relationships with residents and encourage social interaction.
• Assist residents in attending activities, including escorting or transporting residents safely.
• Adapt activities to meet varying cognitive and physical abilities of residents.
• Provide companionship and emotional support to residents during programs.

Documentation and Communication

• Assist with documenting resident participation in activities as required by community policies and state regulations.
• Communicate resident interests, needs, and concerns to the Activities Director and care team.
• Help maintain activity calendars, bulletin boards, and program announcements.

Environment and Safety

• Maintain activity supplies and ensure equipment is stored safely.
• Follow all community safety, infection control, and emergency procedures.
• Ensure activities areas remain clean, organized, and welcoming.

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with nursing, dining, and other departments to support resident engagement.
• Participate in staff meetings and trainings as required. Assist with holiday events, family events, and community celebrations.

Requirements

Position Requirements

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Experience

• Experience working with seniors.
• Experience in recreation, activities programming, hospitality, or customer service.
• Experience working with individuals with dementia or cognitive impairment.

Certifications (Preferred But Not Always Required)

• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Activity Professional Certification such as:
  • ADC (Activity Director Certified)
  • CDP (Certified Dementia Practitioner)

Skills and Competencies

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Compassion and patience when working with older adults.
• Ability to lead small group activities.
• Creativity in planning engaging programs.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Organizational and time management skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout the community.
• Ability to assist residents with mobility and transport when needed.
• Ability to lift and carry activity supplies (up to approximately 25 lbs).
• Ability to push wheelchairs or activity carts.

Working Conditions

• Indoor and outdoor programming.
• Weekend, holiday, and evening hours may be required depending on activity schedules.
• Interaction with residents who may have cognitive impairments including dementia.