Recreation Assistant (Community Alzheimer Program)
Job Number: 3023
Job Type: Part-Time Unscheduled
Location: 247 Franklin St N - Sunnyside Home
Number of Positions: 1
Division: Community Services
Hours of Work: No guaranteed hours. Shifts can vary.*
Union: Unifor 1106
Grade: Unifor 1106 Grade 004
Salary Range: $27.81 - $29.20 per hour
*Part-time unscheduled employees will be required to provide availability for fifty-six (56) hours (28x2) per pay period. Availability must be provided for at least two shift variances (i.e. days, afternoons and/or nights). Employees who do not submit minimum availability as per above may be scheduled for up to fifty-six (56) hours per pay period based on operational needs. Part-time unscheduled employees must be available three (3) of six (6) weekends (both Saturday and Sunday) in a scheduling period. Part-time unscheduled employees must be available the Saturday and Sunday of two (2) of the following weekends: Victoria Day weekend, weekend deemed closest to July 1, Civic Holiday weekend, Labour Day Weekend. Part-time unscheduled employees shall be required to be available one of the following: Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, or New Years Eve and New Years Day. All employees are required to accept and work the shift wherever the work is available in Seniors’ Services, having regard for continuity of care, no stipulations. Once a shift has been assigned to an employee and posted on the schedule, it is the requirement of the employee to work the shift. If the employee is unable to work the shift the employee must find their own replacement and must receive approval from their Supervisor.
About Us!
The Region of Waterloo is a thriving, diverse community committed to fostering opportunities for current and future generations. Waterloo Region is part of the Dish with One Spoon wampum, a treaty guiding our commitment to:
- Taking only what we need
- Leaving some for others
- Keeping the dish clean
This agreement underpins our vision, mission, and core value, and reinforces our dedication to meaningful reconciliation and equity.
Waterloo Region is home to over 674,000 residents and expected to grow to nearly one million by 2051.
Guided by our 2023-2027 Strategic Plan, “Growing with Care,” we prioritize homes for all, climate aligned growth, equitable services and opportunities and a resilient and future ready organization. Our mission is to provide essential services that enhance the quality of life for all residents, while our core value emphasizes caring for people and the land we share. Join us and be part of a team dedicated to making a meaningful difference in our community.
The Role
Assists Recreation Therapist to implement and monitor programming for Community Alzheimer Program participants.
Duties/Responsibilities
- Provides direct care and programming for participants in the Community Alzheimer Program. Organizes and implements recreation programs designed for program participants living with dementia.
- Monitors program participants, ensuring their safety and well-being. Works individually with participants to assist with activities and provides assistance (e.g., transferring, toileting, feeding).
- Promotes participation in one-on-one and group settings.
- Documents participant observations in progress notes and at service planning meetings.
- Keeps knowledge and skills current by participating in in-service programs, staff meetings, and seminars.
- Monitors program supplies and purchases same, as required.
- Performs related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of the aging process, specifically the stages, manifestations, and behaviours of dementia; as well planning and implementing activities for persons living with dementia, normally acquired through a Community College Diploma in Recreation or equivalent plus directly related experience implementing social and recreational programs.
- Knowledge of best practices in caring for persons living with dementia (e.g., gentle persuasive approach, U-first, Montessori).
- Knowledge of and ability follow corporate policies, procedures, and standards.
- A tuberculosis (TB) test and annual influenza immunization are required.
- Human relations and communication skills to respond pleasantly and professionally to demands; communicate effectively with staff, participants, and their families; interact with and have a basic understanding of the geriatric population; and participate as an effective member of a therapeutic team.
- Ability to write progress notes on participant behavior, per guidelines. Ability to read articles and communications to keep knowledge current.
- Computer skills using software such as Microsoft Office, electronic health records, and the internet.
- Must provide an acceptable Police Vulnerable Sector Check (level 3).
- Ability to work days, evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays as part of a set schedule.
- Ability to travel to locations within Waterloo Region.
- Ability to support and project the Region’s values.
The Region of Waterloo is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. We actively encourage applications from diverse groups, including Black, racialized, First Nations, Métis, Inuit individuals, women, people with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ persons, and are committed to equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion in the workplace.
For an accommodation request, please contact us and we will work with you to meet your accessibility needs. Alternate formats of this document are available upon request. Please contact the Service First Contact Centre at phone number (519) 575-4400 to request an alternate format, or email talentmanagement@regionofwaterloo.ca.
Please note: candidates will be provided an update on their application. Please check your spam or junk folder occasionally as some candidates have noticed our emails in those folders (Gmail and Hotmail in particular).