Life Enrichment Activity Coordinator

Kaizen Lab Inc.; Traverse City (MI); On-site; USD 40,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Grand Traverse Pavilions is seeking a Life Enrichment Activity Coordinator to lead the development and oversight of engaging programs across our senior communities. You will guide activity staff, plan events, and tailor activities to residents’ needs and cultural backgrounds.

Reporting to the Director of Clinical Services, you will ensure activities promote physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being while maintaining regulatory readiness and a positive, resident-centered

Qualifications

• CTRS or NCCAP certification (or eligible)
• OT or COTA licensure
• At least 2 years in a social or recreational program in the past 5 years, including 1 year full-time in a therapeutic activities program in a healthcare setting
• Bachelor's degree or higher in Therapeutic Recreation or related field

Responsibilities

• Develop, coordinate, and evaluate comprehensive life enrichment programs promoting residents' physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being.
• Plan and implement daily activities, special events, celebrations, entertainment, and community outings within budget.
• Supervise, mentor, and support Life Enrichment staff through coaching, scheduling, and performance management.
• Manage department budget, purchase supplies, and maintain inventory.
• Document resident participation and update care plans as appropriate.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Resident-focused care

Program development

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation or related field

CTRS or NCCAP certification (or eligible)

Michigan Licensure (OT/COTA)

Job description

Life Enrichment Activity Coordinator – Grand Traverse Pavilions

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 meetone 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.

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.