Recreation Therapist

High Desert PACE; Victorville (CA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement 401(k) Savings Plan with employer matching

Generous time-off benefits, including paid parental leave

Inclusive workplace culture

Job summary

A community-based care provider in California seeks a Recreational Therapist to enhance the well-being of elderly participants through recreational activities. The role involves assessing individual needs, developing tailored programs, and collaborating with an interdisciplinary team. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation and relevant certification. Benefits include comprehensive insurance, a retirement savings plan, and an inclusive workplace culture.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Therapeutic Recreation or a related field.
• Certification in BLS required upon hire.
• CTRS designation required within 6 months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive individual assessments for participants.
• Create and implement recreational activities aligned with participant preferences.
• Participate in the IDT care planning process.
• Lead participant-centered events to boost morale.
• Maintain accurate records of participant progress.
• Assist with training and supervision of aides.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Therapeutic Recreation or related field

Job description

About High Desert PACE

High Desert PACE is a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) dedicated to keeping older adults as healthy and independent as possible within their own communities. Through our clinical services, home visits, and social engagement programs, we empower elders to live active, fulfilling lives. At High Desert PACE, we follow the promise of: “Know me, care for me, ease my way.”

Position Summary

The Recreational Therapist plays a vital role in our mission by providing a variety of therapeutic social, recreational, and diversional events for our participants. As a core member of the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT), you will be responsible for assessing participant needs and designing individualized plans that promote physical and mental well‑being. This role is essential in fostering an inclusive, vibrant environment where our seniors feel seen, heard, and respected.

Key Responsibilities

• Participant Assessment: Conduct comprehensive individual assessments to identify the unique needs, interests, and capabilities of each participant.
• Program Development: Create and implement an appropriate variety of both individual and group recreational activities (e.g., arts and crafts, music, games, outings) aligned with participant preferences.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Actively participate in the IDT care planning process alongside nurses, social workers, and other therapists to ensure a holistic approach to participant care.
• Therapeutic Execution: Lead facility-wide, participant-centered events designed to boost morale and promote cognitive and physical health.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate, timely records of participant participation, progress, and clinical observations for your assigned group.
• Leadership: Assist with the training and supervision of assigned therapeutic aides to ensure high-quality program delivery.

Qualifications

Required:

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Therapeutic Recreation or a related field.
• Certification: National Provider BLS (American Heart Association) required upon hire.
• Licensure: Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) designation required within 6 months (180 days) of hire.

Preferred:

• Experience: 2 years of experience providing recreational therapy specifically with the elderly or frail population, preferably in a healthcare or PACE setting.
• Skills: Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement 401(k) Savings Plan with employer matching.
• Generous time-off benefits, including paid parental leave, vacations, and holidays.
• An inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and professional growth.