Community Life Aide - PT ( Heartwood Lodge )

Trinity Health; Spring Lake (MI); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Heartwood Lodge in Spring Lake, Michigan, is seeking a compassionate Community Life Aide to plan and implement engaging activities for residents, including those with dementia. The role emphasizes person-centered care and meaningful engagement in a supportive, faith-based setting.

You will design programs, lead group and individual activities, and collaborate with nursing staff to integrate enrichment into each resident’s care plan. Part-time day shifts are available.

Qualifications

• Proficiency with basic technology tools for documentation and activity planning.
• CTRS, ADC, or equivalent credentials (preferred but not required).

Responsibilities

• Design, plan, and facilitate a variety of daily activities.
• Develop dementia-specific programs for memory care residents.
• Collaborate with nursing and care staff to integrate enrichment into care plans.
• Plan and coordinate events and outings to enhance resident quality of life.
• Document participation and ensure regulatory compliance.

Skills

Tech tools for documentation

Documentation planning

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree in recreation therapy or gerontology

Tools

CTRS

ADC

Job description

Employment Type: Part time Shift: Day Shift Description: The Heartwood Lodge in Spring Lake Michigan, is seeking a compassionate, creative, and highly motivated Community Life Aide to enhance the quality of life for our residents. This role focuses on planning and implementing engaging programs, activities, and events tailored to meet the unique needs of residents, including those living with dementia. At Heartwood Lodge we are committed to creating a nurturing, supportive environment where residents thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Development and Implementation: Design, plan, and facilitate a variety of daily activities that promote physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Develop specialized dementia care programs that cater to the unique needs of memory care residents. Organize group and one-on-one activities that foster engagement, socialization, and a sense of purpose.
• Resident-Centered Care: Collaborate with residents, families, and caregivers to identify individual preferences and interests. Ensure activities are inclusive, meaningful, and adapted to residents’ abilities and stages of dementia.
• Team Collaboration: Partner with nursing and care staff to integrate enrichment activities into care plans. Train and mentor staff and volunteers on best practices for engaging with residents, particularly those with dementia.
• Event Coordination: Plan and coordinate special events, holiday celebrations, and outings to enrich the lives of residents. Build relationships with local community organizations and entertainers to expand activity offerings.
• Documentation and Compliance: Maintain accurate records of resident participation and program effectiveness. Ensure activities meet state and federal regulatory requirements for assisted living and memory care.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in basic technology tools for documentation and activity planning.
• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), Activity Director Certification (ADC), or equivalent credentials (preferred but not required).

Preferred Qualifications

• QMCP (Qualified Memory Care Professional) designation
• CMCP (Certified Memory Care Professional) designation

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor's degree in recreation therapy, gerontology, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience working with seniors, including direct experience with dementia programming.

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

Trinity Health is one of the largest not-for-profit, faith-based health care systems in the nation. Together, we’re 121,000 colleagues and nearly 36,500 physicians and clinicians caring for diverse communities across 27 states. Nationally recognized for care and experience, our system includes 101 hospitals, 126 continuing care locations, the second largest PACE program in the country, 136 urgent care locations, and many other health and well-being services. Based in Livonia, Michigan, in fiscal year 2023, we invested $1.5 billion in our communities through charity care and other community benefit programs. For more information, visit http://www.trinity-health.org. You can also follow Trinity Health on LinkedIn.