Activities Assistant

Merrill Gardens at Ballard is seeking a compassionate, caring, responsible, and honest individual who genuinely loves working with the senior population to join our team as an Active Living Assistant (Driver).

About the role

Support residents within our beautiful community by developing and delivering engaging activities, providing safe transportation, and fostering an atmosphere that values individualism and dignity.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Active Living Program Director to design and implement a program of activities appropriate to the needs of residents transitioning from AL to Memory Care.
• Deliver, lead, or conduct program activities in a timely and effective manner.
• Coordinate at least one family activity per month.
• Present a professional demeanor that communicates a corporate philosophy of service, goodwill, and genuine interest in each resident’s needs.
• Familiarize yourself with residents of the community.
• Observe residents’ ability to perform daily ADLs and social skills; communicate potential difficulties or opportunities to the appropriate team member.
• Encourage and motivate residents in all areas, aiding when necessary.
• Participate in all training offered by the employer.
• Assume the duties and functions of Activities staff in their absence.
• Assist with setup and cleanup of activities, including moving tables and chairs as needed.
• Help track resident participation and adjust activities based on engagement and feedback.
• Transport and/or accompany residents to and from off-site activities, appointments, and errands using the community vehicle.
• Assist residents with safely entering and exiting the vehicle.
• Adhere to all community transportation policies and traffic laws.
• Maintain punctuality and professionalism during all assigned driving duties.
• Conduct basic vehicle checks and report any issues promptly.
• Ensure resident comfort and safety during rides.
• Maintain confidentiality of employer, team members, and residents alike.
• Follow written and verbal instructions.
• Accurately maintain all records related to the department.
• Communicate ideas both verbally and in writing.
• Employ effective listening skills when engaged with residents and team members.
• Represent and promote activities and programs as a member of our team.
• Organize and manage both information and time effectively.

Requirements

• High School diploma required; College Degree or equivalent preferred.
• One to two years related experience, training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Valid driver’s license and driving record in good standing.
• Preference for social activity involvement.
• Senior living experience preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, lifting (up to 75 lbs), and assisting with resident care.
• Regular bending, reaching, and physical movement throughout the workday.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Benefits

Full-time employees

• Highly competitive pay and comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life insurance).
• Company-paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Paid time off: 7 holidays and 11 vacation days.
• Free daily meal every shift.
• 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting.
• Tuition reimbursement for career growth.
• Company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Pet insurance and team member discounts.
• Advance Pay benefit: access wages before payday.
• A stable, growing company with opportunities for advancement.

Part-time employees

• Free daily meal every shift.
• 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting.
• Company-paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Tuition reimbursement for career growth.
• Pet insurance and team member discounts.
• Advance Pay benefit: access wages before payday.
• A stable, growing company with opportunities for advancement.