Life Enrichment/Activities Program Director

Life Enrichment/Activities Program Director

The Gables of Fitchburg – Fitchburg, MA
Full-Time | Assisted Living Facility

About Us

The Gables of Fitchburg is a premier assisted living community committed to enriching the lives of our senior residents through dynamic programming, compassionate care, and an engaging lifestyle. Our mission is to provide a supportive and stimulating environment that promotes dignity, independence, and quality of life.

Position Overview

The Activities Director is responsible for developing, organizing, and implementing a comprehensive activities program that supports the social, emotional, intellectual, physical, and spiritual well-being of residents. This role requires creativity, enthusiasm, and strong organizational skills to coordinate a diverse calendar of events and foster a vibrant community atmosphere.

Reports To: Executive Director

Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Essential Responsibilities

Resident Engagement & Program Development:

• Conduct assessments with each resident to determine their activity preferences, abilities, and interests.
• Develop a monthly activity calendar that includes individual and group activities tailored to the residents’ needs and interests.
• Ensure a full activity program is available seven days a week, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Organize special events, holiday celebrations, intergenerational programs, and community outings to enhance residents’ quality of life.
• Plan themed events, educational programs, and entertainment opportunities for residents.
• Encourage participation and provide personalized engagement strategies for residents with cognitive or mobility challenges.

Leadership & Coordination:

• Supervise, train, and manage activity assistants and volunteers.
• Develop and maintain a volunteer program, coordinating with local organizations, schools, and community groups.
• Work collaboratively with caregivers, nursing staff, and other departments to ensure activities support residents’ overall wellness.
• Co-lead the monthly Resident Council Meeting with the Executive Director, documenting feedback and implementing suggested improvements.

Operations & Compliance:

• Maintain accurate documentation of resident participation and program effectiveness.
• Ensure all activities adhere to state and federal regulations for assisted living communities.
• Maintain and oversee the activity program budget, ordering supplies as needed while staying within budgetary guidelines.
• Plan and coordinate transportation for resident outings, shopping trips, and banking services, ensuring staff or volunteer support.
• Drive the community van for outings as needed.
• Take photos and document community events for newsletters, marketing materials, and resident engagement.
• Ensure the activity storage area remains organized, clean, and well-maintained.

Customer Service & Communication:

• Provide outstanding customer service to residents, families, and visitors.
• Promote the activity program through monthly newsletters, flyers, and one-on-one interactions.
• Acknowledge resident birthdays, anniversaries, and achievements with personalized recognition or special events.
• Communicate any changes in a resident’s physical, mental, or emotional well-being to appropriate staff members.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education:
• Associate Degree or two years of college coursework in Recreation, Gerontology, Social Work, or a related field OR
• Two years of full-time experience in activity programming for dependent adult populations.
• Experience working with older adults in a recreational or therapeutic setting preferred.
• Certified Activity Director (ADC) credential preferred or willingness to obtain certification.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to safely drive a passenger van required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Publisher) and ability to create newsletters and activity schedules.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Passion for working with seniors and the ability to foster an engaging, positive environment.
• Must pass a criminal background check and may be subject to random drug testing.

Physical Requirements & Work Conditions

• Must be able to lift up to 60 lbs and assist in resident transfers if needed.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, pushing wheelchairs, and reaching.
• May be exposed to infectious diseases, conditions, and emotional resident behaviors.
• Required to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as scheduled.
• Flexibility to occasionally work extended shifts up to 16 hours/day.

Training & Compliance

• Must complete annual in-service training in accordance with Massachusetts assisted living regulations.
• Follow all safety procedures and emergency protocols.
• Maintain compliance with HIPAA and resident confidentiality policies.

Benefits & Compensation

• Competitive hourly rate  based on experience
• Health and dental, insurance options

see above

To be discussed upon interview