Recreation Therapy Director

Mathews, Virginia

Are you passionate about creating meaningful, enjoyable experiences that enhance the lives of residents? As the Activities Program Director, you will lead the planning, implementation, and evaluation of dynamic recreational programs tailored to meet the unique needs and interests of each resident. In this role, you’ll be instrumental in providing leisure opportunities that foster engagement, socialization, and personal well-being. You will supervise Activities Aides, ensure program effectiveness, and adapt activities to align with residents' medical and physical needs.

What You’ll Do:

Lead & Coordinate Programs: Direct all activity programs across the facility, ensuring each program aligns with resident interests, abilities, and care goals. Coordinate activities with other disciplines such as rehabilitation, social services, dietary, and nursing.

Compliance Management: Ensure all programs meet regulatory requirements and facility standards, maintaining excellence in care delivery and documentation.

Comprehensive Care: Oversee the activities component of resident assessments and develop personalized care plans that promote their social, physical, and emotional well-being.

Resident Engagement: Schedule and facilitate monthly Resident Council meetings, conduct annual council elections, and organize special functions and holiday events.

Safety & Oversight: Supervise activities to ensure safety, cleanliness, and order. Manage departmental operations, including training, evaluations, and volunteer services.

Community Representation: Participate in civic or professional organizations at the local, state, or national level, representing the facility and advocating for recreational therapy best practices.

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred.

Experience: Background in recreational therapy, ideally with experience in long-term care and in a supervisory capacity.

Licenses and Certifications:

Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) - National Cancer Registrars Association (NCRA), Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) - National Cancer Registrars Association (NCRA), or

•              Licensed or registered activities professional in Virginia and is eligible for certification as a therapeutic recreation specialist or as an activities professional by a recognized accrediting body, or

•              Has 2 years or experience in a social or recreational program within the last 5 years, one of which was full-time in a therapeutic activities program, or

•              Is a qualified occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant, or

•              Has completed a training course approved by the State. (Required)

CPR/BLS Certification - American Heart Association/American Red

Cross/American Safety and Health Institute (AHA/ARC)  within 30 Days(Required)

First Aid - American Heart Association/American Red Cross/American Safety and Health Institute (AHA/ARC)  within 30 Days(Preferred)

Valid Drivers License Required

To learn more about being a team member with Riverside Health System visit us at https://www.riversideonline.com/careers.