Manager of Therapeutic Programs & Volunteer Services (maternity leave)

Job Summary
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Manager of Therapeutic Program and Volunteer Services is a member of the leadership team upholding George Derby Care Society’s (GDCS) Vision, Mission, Values, and established policies and procedures; commits to professional and GDCS’ codes of ethics, and functions within the regulations, standards and guidelines governing health care, social services, human resources, and volunteerism.

The Manager of Therapeutic Program and Volunteer Services is responsible for planning, developing, executing, and evaluating a wide variety of therapeutic recreation programs that meet individualized physical, social, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, and cultural needs and interests within the concept of person-centered care for residents of George Derby Centre. Responsibilities also include coordination of the Volunteer Services Program and supports activities such as Resident Council.

Key Duties/Responsibilities
1. Develops and manages the administration of therapeutic services in recreation, music and art therapy, and volunteer resources.
2. Develops, implements, and evaluates departmental plans, objectives, services, policies, and strategies to meet identified program needs and to achieve the highest level of quality programs within allocated resources.
3. Responsible for departmental human resources management which includes interviewing, selecting, supervising, and evaluating employee performance. Identifies employee training needs and plans and coordinates appropriate programs as required; conducts staff in-service and continuing education programs.
4. Develops necessary documentation and reporting systems to maintain accurate records and communication for the department. Ensures residents’ rights of privacy and confidentiality are maintained except in the proper operation of business.
5. Ensures the development, documentation, and ongoing maintenance of all resident therapeutic recreation care plans in accordance with regulations and assessment outcomes.
6. Utilizes various clinical assessment tools and therapeutic interventions to assess and reassess residents’ abilities and needs.
7. Develops individualized and group recreation and leisure treatment plans in accordance with assessment results and in conjunction with the interdisciplinary team.
8. Fosters a departmental culture of safety by providing leadership and direction to employees to ensure accident prevention, this includes modeling and training, as needed, of good body mechanics and the proper techniques for lifts, transfers, portering, and walking residents; ensures recreational equipment is maintained in good working condition.
9. Ensures that all services and programs operate in compliance with practice standards and requirements for resident and staff safety, licensing, and other relevant external agencies, including any requirement for external reporting.
10. Works in consultation and cooperation with the Care Department and participates in multi-disciplinary Care Conferences to identify special needs that can be met through the Department.
11. Develops positive and cooperative relationships, networks, and partnerships with external agencies regarding therapeutic and outreach services.
12. Researches and seeks best practice information for continuous quality improvement of therapeutic programming. Participates in the organization’s continuing quality improvement programs (e.g., performance indicators).
13. Provides input to annual operating budgets, identifies priorities, and monitors the operating budgets for recreation and contracted services for Long Term Care and Housing programs. Controls the expenditures and provides rationale for negative variances.
14. Prepares a variety of written reports for the Executive Director and others, as required.
15. Partners with external therapeutic recreation program schools to provide positive practicum student opportunities.
16. Manages the Volunteer program which includes recruitment, interviewing, orientation, training, supervision, evaluation and coordinating volunteer schedules.
17. Acts as the organization’s liaison to Resident’s Council responsible for general promotion, publicizing of upcoming events and encouraging family, friends, and outside agencies to attend.
18. Contributes and maintains a safe environment for residents and families and staff by:
a. Following resident safety-related policies, procedures, and guidelines.
b. Maintaining knowledge of emergency procedures.
c. Using infection control best practices and procedures.
d. Using skills and physical facilities, supplies, and equipment safely and appropriately.
e. Identifying and reporting any potential or actual resident or staff safety concern in a timely manner.
19. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education & Experience:
• A bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation from an approved accredited academic institution and/or active Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential.
• A member of the BC Therapeutic Recreation Association (BCTRA) and the Canadian Therapeutic Recreation Association (CTRA).
• Minimum one year’s experience in developing and delivering programs and training.
• Valid First Aid, Food Safe and Serving It Right certificates.
• Valid class 5 motor vehicle licence; class 4 is an asset.

Skills & Abilities:
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain positive and productive relationships throughout the organization and other stakeholders.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Preferred experience and knowledge of Point Click Care, MDS RAI.
• Excellent computer skills in Microsoft Office, Adobe, Publisher, etc.
• Experience and knowledge of social media and other online communication platforms.
• Strong management skills to lead, coach, and motivate staff.
• Ability to organize and utilize resources, to assess and assign priorities, and to assist employees/volunteers to accept changing needs and priorities with flexibility.
• Strong conflict resolution strategies and ability to role model these strong interpersonal skills.
• Sensitivity and a passion for meeting the needs of geriatric adults and an ability to effectively interact with residents, families, members of the community.
• Physically able to carry out the duties of the position and operate related equipment.