Description
Employment Environment
Working at Between Friends brings so much fun into your professional life! We are an organization that respects the need for a work-life balance! We are passionate about our employees' well-being. As an agency, we focus on bringing inclusive and accessible recreation and social programming to the people who mean the most to us, our members! We work to break down barriers and adapt to individual and communal needs. Between Friends creates opportunities for people with disabilities to connect, grow, and belong through social, recreational, and developmental activities.
Job Overview
Our W.E.S.O.A.R! (Weekend, Evening, Social Opportunities, Activities and Recreation) programs offer a variety of activities including, but not limited to, movies, bowling, swimming, music, hobbies, and so much more. W.E.S.O.A.R! Programs are offered at both static and non-static locations, ensuring you can find one that matches your interests and is convenient for you.
As a Program Leader for our W.E.S.O.A.R! programs you will be responsible for the delivery of safe and inclusive social, recreation, and development opportunities in the community. With the support of Volunteers, you will provide exceptional care and supervision of program participants to ensure an outstanding experience and satisfaction in their activities. This position reports to the Program Coordinator, Adults.
Job Duties & Responsibilities
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Follow all policies and procedures of Between Friends.
- Maintain confidentiality of participants’ personal information
- Attend all mandatory training opportunities and staff meetings as set by the Program Coordinator (1 training pre-program, 1 mid-session training)
- Ensure the safety and wellbeing of 8-10 participants during community programming by delivering engaging, inclusive activities that meet high standards of quality and safety.
- Responsible for program planning, budget and receipt tracking, and scheduling (program dependent).
- Provide accessible programming by adapting activities as needed to accommodate participant needs.
- Responsible for the medical safety of participants by administering medication and completing the appropriate documentation, as per the policy of Between Friends. Training will be provided.
- Provide support, leadership, and guidance to volunteers including 1-2 evaluations per session to offer feedback.
- Deescalate situations and apply appropriate skills to support all stakeholders during emergencies. Training will be provided.
- Identify and communicate with the appropriate person for specific concerns or updates.
- Maintain consistent communication with caregivers to support a positive experience for all participants.
- Report any issues regarding participant attendance or unusual behavior to the Membership Experience Coordinator.
- Share all feedback, including major concerns, staff issues, budget questions, and positive updates, with the Program Coordinator (Adults).
Time Requirements
- Contracts span one full year, with Leaders required to commit to at least one complete program session. W.E.S.O.A.R! Programs run for 8 to 12 weeks and are available during Winter, Summer, and Fall sessions.
- One program has a weekly commitment of 3-5 hours (possibility of running multiple programs for successful candidates seeking more hours)
- Each program has administrative duties required outside of program time, these hours are paid and average to be about 1 hour per week
- A full day of training will be held on a Saturday before programs begin. Additionally, Leader Meetings will take place throughout the session on Monday evenings.
- Programs run Tuesday through Sunday during the Fall and Winter sessions
- Programs run Monday through Friday during the Summer session
Job Requirements
- Must be 18 years old
- Must pass a Screening Process including 2 personal reference checks and an Enhanced Canadian Criminal Record Check
- Must be able to provide proof of current Standard First Aid and CPR Level C
- Leaders must have their own cell phone for use during program hours, as required
- Ability to provide support to participants requiring lifts and transfers, medication administration, and personal care support. Training will be provided.
- Previous experience in the following would be considered an asset:
- Working with people with disabilities.
- Developing and implementing programming.
- Experience in managing crisis situations in a team setting.
