Activity Assistant

Shalom Gardens; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Compensation

Paid Time Off

Flexible Daily Pay

Job summary

Shalom Gardens in Richmond, VA is seeking an energetic Activity Assistant to create meaningful daily experiences for our residents. You’ll help plan and lead engaging recreational activities, build relationships, and support residents’ social well-being.

Ideal candidates have a high school diploma, some coursework in recreation, and a passion for seniors. Prior activity planning or caregiving experience is a plus, and a friendly, collaborative spirit is essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Coursework in recreation or related field preferred.
• Completion of a state-approved activity training course preferred but not required.
• Previous experience working with seniors or in long-term care is a plus.
• Experience leading recreational activities, games, arts and crafts, educational programs, or community outings is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with planning and leading engaging recreational and social activities.
• Facilitate games, arts and crafts, music, celebrations, educational programs, and group activities.
• Encourage residents to participate based on their interests and abilities.
• Assist with special events, holiday celebrations, themed activities, and community outings.
• Provide one-on-one activities and companionship for residents who may not participate in group programs.
• Help create a welcoming, positive, and energetic environment for residents.
• Build meaningful relationships with residents and learn about their interests and preferences.
• Work with the Activities Director and interdisciplinary team to support residents' social and emotional well-being.
• Prepare activity spaces, supplies, decorations, and equipment.
• Support resident independence, dignity, choice, and quality of life.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Creativity

Teamwork

Compassionate

Friendly

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Coursework in recreation/related field

State-approved activity training course

Job description

Full-Time | Long-Term Care & Rehabilitation

Bring the Fun. Create Connections. Make Every Day Meaningful.

Are you energetic, creative, compassionate, and someone who loves making people smile?

We are looking for an enthusiastic Activity Assistant to join our team and help create meaningful, engaging experiences for our residents.

As an Activity Assistant, you'll do much more than organize activities. You'll build relationships, encourage residents to stay active and connected, celebrate milestones, and help create the moments that make our community feel like home.

If you love working with seniors and enjoy bringing creativity, positivity, and fun to your workday, we would love to meet you!

What You'll Do

• Assist with planning and leading engaging recreational and social activities.
• Facilitate games, arts and crafts, music, celebrations, educational programs, and group activities.
• Encourage residents to participate based on their individual interests and abilities.
• Assist with special events, holiday celebrations, themed activities, and community outings.
• Provide one-on-one activities and companionship for residents who may not participate in group programs.
• Help create a welcoming, positive, and energetic environment for residents.
• Build meaningful relationships with residents and learn about their interests, hobbies, and preferences.
• Work closely with the Activities Director and interdisciplinary team to support residents' social and emotional well-being.
• Assist with preparing activity spaces, supplies, decorations, and equipment.
• Support resident independence, dignity, choice, and quality of life.

What We're Looking For

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Coursework in recreation or a related field is preferred.
• Completion of a state-approved activity training course is preferred but not required.
• Previous experience working with seniors or in long-term care is a plus.
• Experience leading recreational activities, games, arts and crafts, educational programs, or community outings is preferred.
• Friendly, outgoing, patient, and compassionate personality.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Creativity and enthusiasm for developing activities residents will enjoy.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

Why You'll Love Working With Us

We believe great care includes more than meeting physical needs - it means helping residents stay connected, engaged, active, and excited about their day.

Our benefits include:

• Competitive Compensation: Your contributions matter, and we believe they should be recognized.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Take the time you need to recharge.
• Flexible Daily Pay: Access your earned wages when you need them.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, disability, and additional benefit options.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: Start building toward your financial future.
• Wellness Resources: Programs designed to support your overall well-being.
• Career & Educational Development: Opportunities to learn, develop your skills, and advance your career.
• Comprehensive Onboarding & Professional Development: We'll provide the tools and support you need to succeed.
• Supportive Team Environment: Join a workplace built around teamwork, collaboration, and resident-centered care.

Turn Your Creativity Into Something Meaningful

Some jobs are about completing a task. This one is about creating a moment.

A favorite song. A competitive game of bingo. A holiday celebration. An afternoon of crafts. A conversation that makes someone’s entire day.

As an Activity Assistant, you have the opportunity to bring joy, connection, and purpose to our residents every single day.

We are committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We do not discriminate in recruiting, hiring, or promotion based based on race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

We proudly support and encourage individuals with military experience, including active-duty service members, veterans, reservists, National Guard members, and military spouses, to apply for our career opportunities.