Life Enrichment Activity Coordinator

Grand Traverse Pavilions; Traverse City (MI); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Grand Traverse Pavilions in Traverse City, MI, seeks a Life Enrichment Activity Coordinator to develop and oversee engaging programs for residents across Skilled Nursing, Assisted Living, and Independent Living. This leadership role combines creativity, compassion, and organization to keep residents active, connected, and fulfilled.

Reporting to the Director of Clinical Services, you will supervise staff, manage budgets, coordinate events, and ensure regulatory compliance while fostering

Qualifications

• CTS or NCCAP or equivalent certification, or eligible for certification.
• Licensed Occupational Therapist (OT).
• Licensed Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
• Two years of experience in a social or recreational program within the past five years, including at least one year full‑time in a therapeutic activities program in a healthcare setting.

Responsibilities

• Develop, coordinate, and evaluate life enrichment programs for residents' physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well‑being.
• Plan and implement daily activities, events, celebrations, entertainment, and community outings within an established budget.
• Ensure resident preferences, cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and individual abilities are reflected in programming.
• Assess resident interests and needs while modifying activities to maximize participation and engagement.
• Supervise, mentor, and support Life Enrichment staff through coaching, scheduling, and performance management.
• Manage the department budget, purchase supplies, and maintain inventory.
• Foster meaningful relationships with residents, families, volunteers, and interdisciplinary team members.
• Document resident participation and update care plans as appropriate.
• Maintain compliance with state and federal regulations while ensuring survey and accreditation readiness.
• Support Grand Traverse Pavilions' mission, safety culture, and Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) initiatives.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Creativity

Organizational skills

Budgeting

Problem-solving

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation or related field

Michigan Recreational Therapist Certification (LARA)

Job description

About Us

Grand Traverse Pavilions is a premier healthcare and senior living community dedicated to providing exceptional care and enriching the lives of our residents. We believe that quality of life extends beyond healthcare, and we are committed to creating meaningful experiences that promote physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well‑being. If you are passionate about making a difference and leading innovative programs that bring joy and purpose to others, we invite you to join our team.

Job Summary

The Life Enrichment Activity Coordinator is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing engaging recreational, therapeutic, and social programs for residents across our Skilled Nursing Facility, Assisted Living, and Independent Living communities. Reporting directly to the Director of Clinical Services, this leadership role combines creativity, compassion, and organizational skills to ensure every resident has opportunities to remain active, connected, and fulfilled. The ideal candidate is an enthusiastic leader who enjoys building relationships, supervising staff, planning memorable events, and adapting programs to meet the changing needs of older adults.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, coordinate, and evaluate comprehensive life enrichment programs that promote residents' physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well‑being.
• Plan and implement daily activities, special events, celebrations, entertainment, and community outings within an established budget.
• Ensure resident preferences, cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and individual abilities are reflected in programming.
• Assess resident interests and needs while modifying activities to maximize participation and engagement.
• Supervise, mentor, and support Life Enrichment staff through coaching, scheduling, and performance management.
• Manage the department budget, purchase supplies, and maintain inventory.
• Foster meaningful relationships with residents, families, volunteers, and interdisciplinary team members.
• Document resident participation and update care plans as appropriate.
• Maintain compliance with state and federal regulations while ensuring survey and accreditation readiness.
• Support Grand Traverse Pavilions' mission, safety culture, and Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) initiatives.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Candidates must meet one of the following qualifications:

• Be a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or certified Activity Professional (NCCAP or equivalent), or be eligible for certification through a recognized accrediting organization.
• Be a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT).
• Be a licensed Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA).
• Have at least two (2) years of experience in a social or recreational program within the past five (5) years, including at least one (1) year full‑time in a therapeutic activities program within a healthcare setting, and have successfully completed a state‑approved activity training course.

Preferred Education & Certification

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Therapeutic Recreation or a related field.
• Valid Michigan Recreational Therapist Certification issued by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), when applicable.

What We're Looking For

• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• A compassionate, energetic, and resident‑focused approach.
• Creativity in developing engaging programs for diverse resident populations.
• Strong organizational, budgeting, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing resident needs and priorities.
• Knowledge of long‑term care regulations and survey readiness.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Ability to sit for extended periods while performing administrative responsibilities.
• Frequent computer use for documentation, scheduling, and communication.
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds.
• Flexible schedule with occasional evenings and weekends to support resident events and activities.

Why Grand Traverse Pavilions?

At Grand Traverse Pavilions, you'll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact every day by creating meaningful experiences for older adults. We offer a collaborative work environment, opportunities for professional growth, competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to lead programs that truly enrich the lives of our residents.