OPSSUP37-2026-07-29 Recreation Worker

Description

The Recreational Therapist is responsible for implementing recreation therapy and leisure programs and services supporting quality of life within Community Programs. The Recreation Therapist provides individual and group therapy and recreational programming for clients/patients with the purpose of reactivating varying abilities, enabling them to attain and maintain their maximum physical, social, and mental potential. The Recreation Therapist plans, implements and evaluates recreation, social and educational programs for the diversified members of the client population. All duties are performed in a manner that respects and recognizes the uniqueness, dignity, worth, self-respect and self-determination of the client/patient and promotes maximum independence.

Position Relationships

Reporting to the Manager of Community Services, the Recreation Therapist works in collaboration with the Interdisciplinary Team and within established reporting structures. Collaborates with nursing staff and interacts with clients/patients, staff, volunteers, and members of the general public.

Duties

• Accountable for the planning, implementation, evaluation and documentation of daily therapeutic recreational programs.
• Collaborates with the interdisciplinary team and interacts with clients and family, staff, volunteers, and members of the general public.
• Performs the responsibilities of the position within the legislative and regulatory standards set out by the Ministry of Long-Term Care.
• Applies the fundamental principle of the Fixing Long Term Care Act in the operation of the home.
• Maintains and provides a comprehensive and organized program of recreational and social activities to meet the interests of the clients.
• Conducts regular needs assessments to determine the capacities of the clients being served and the appropriate personalized interventions and therapy based on current best practices.
• Develops, organizes, delivers, evaluates and monitors the implementation of recreation and social programs.
• Writes clear, concise, and comprehensive program descriptions using appropriate Program Evaluation Tools.
• Conducts assessments and contributes to individualized therapeutic recreation and leisure care plans in collaboration with the interdisciplinary team.
• Works collaboratively with clients/patients, family and the care team to support meaningful engagement and person-centered care/service.
• Reports changes in resident/patient condition to the appropriate registered staff.
• Keeps abreast of knowledge of current therapeutic recreation literature, resources, standards, trends, and research.
• Promotes person centered care/service through participation in interdisciplinary teams, as opportunities arise.
• Assumes responsibility for self-development through participation in related education programs, workshops and in-services.
• Adheres to all policies and procedures.
• Supports and demonstrates the mission, vision and values of the organization.

Qualifications

• Recreation Therapy Diploma
• A member in good standing with Therapeutic Recreation Ontario (TRO)
• Completion of a food safety awareness program recognized by a Public Health Unit
• A certificate in Gerontology preferred
• Smart Serve certification is preferred
• DementiAbility training preferred
• Montessori Methods for Dementia training preferred
• Gentle Persuasive Approach certification preferred.
• Experience in long-term care setting preferred.
• Therapeutic verbal and written communication skills required.
• Ability to work well with others in a team approach, and adapt to changing situations required.
• Computer literacy required.
• Ability to maintain staff, patient and resident confidentiality.
• Exceptional Attendance required.
• Must agree to adhere to the standards of behaviour of the organization.