Director of Activities

General Purpose

The Director of Activities is responsible for planning, developing, organizing, and implementing a comprehensive activities program that meets the physical, social, emotional, spiritual, and cognitive needs of residents. This role promotes resident engagement, independence, dignity, and overall quality of life in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations. The Director of Activities works collaboratively with the interdisciplinary care team to ensure activity programming supports individualized care plans and enhances residents' well-being.

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, and implement a diversified monthly calendar of individual and group activities that accommodate residents with varying physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities.
• Coordinate and lead a wide range of programs, including games, music, arts and crafts, exercise and movement programs, spiritual services, outings, and special events.
• Adapt activities to meet the interests, preferences, cultural backgrounds, and functional abilities of each resident.
• Conduct recreational assessments upon admission and at regular intervals; contribute to care plans and MDS documentation as required.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of resident participation, progress, and responses to activities.
• Supervise, schedule, and train activity staff and volunteers; provide ongoing guidance and performance feedback.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including OBRA requirements and facility policies.
• Collaborate with nursing, social services, dietary, therapy, and other departments to provide holistic resident care.
• Manage the activities department budget; order, maintain, and organize supplies and equipment.
• Promote community involvement by developing partnerships and coordinating volunteer participation.
• Plan and facilitate events that encourage family involvement and strengthen resident connections to the community.

Qualifications

• Regular and reliable attendance is required to perform the essential functions of this position.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor's degree in recreation therapy, gerontology, social work, or a related field preferred.
• Certified Activity Director (ADC) through NCCAP or ability to obtain certification within a specified timeframe of hire.
• Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in long-term care, assisted living, or geriatric setting preferred.
• Knowledge of MDS, care planning, and resident assessment processes preferred.
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead group activities, motivate residents, and work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team.