ACTIVITIES MANAGER JOB DESCRIPTION

An Activities Manager who knows this work well is easy to spot. Every program runs on time, every resident has a plan, and every care provider knows what to do next. When that person is absent or underprepared, individualized care planning stalls, Title 22 and DSS compliance gaps surface, and residents experience measurable declines in quality-of-life outcomes. The Activities Manager is the professional who oversees the full program from needs assessment through session delivery within senior care organizations that serve frail, ill, or aging populations.

As the Activities Manager, you will lead the design and delivery of individualized and group quality-of-life programming for senior populations, ensuring each activity plan reflects assessed resident needs and meets applicable regulatory standards. You will supervise Activity Specialists and care providers, collaborate with Care Managers and family members, and report directly to a Director of Home Care or Residence Director.

Career Impact: Holding CTRS or ADC certification alongside supervisory responsibility in a regulated senior care environment establishes you as a credentialed program leader in a field where qualified managers are consistently in short supply.

Business Impact: The programs you design and deliver directly determine whether residents in home care or residential settings experience measurable improvement in social engagement, cognitive stimulation, and daily functioning.

Growth Opportunity: Demonstrated performance managing Activity Specialists and producing compliance-ready documentation creates a clear path to Program Director or Director of Recreation Services roles within senior living and home care organizations.

• Design and implement individualized activity plans for senior clients in residential and home care settings, aligned with assessed quality-of-life needs.
• Supervise Activity Specialists and care providers through ongoing training, observation, and performance guidance.
• Conduct regular in-person visits to home care clients to deliver materials, facilitate sessions, and assess program effectiveness.
• Plan and lead group recreational programs, including arts and crafts, fitness classes, and social events, across the service population.
• Produce timely written reports for Care Managers, Home Care Directors, and client family members after each session or care conference.
• Coordinate with external vendors, volunteer networks, and instructors to expand program offerings within budget and policy parameters.
• Participate in care planning conferences, safety initiatives, and ongoing assessments to align activity programming with clinical goals.
• Maintain compliance with all applicable policies, regulations, and documentation requirements governing senior care programming.

• Bachelor's degree in recreation therapy, expressive arts therapy, social work, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• 3 or more years of experience in activities coordination or therapeutic recreation, with demonstrated work with senior or medically complex populations.
• MEPAP 1 or MEPAP 2, ADC, or CTRS certification required or actively in progress.
• Supervisory experience managing activity staff, care aides, or volunteers in a structured care setting.
• Strong written communication skills with the ability to produce professional, session-level reports for clinical and family audiences.
• Valid driver's license and reliable access to a vehicle for home care client visits.
• Physical capability to assist members with daily activities, including lifting to 50 pounds and sustained standing or walking.

• Master's degree in art therapy, drama therapy, music therapy, or recreation therapy with a focus on geriatric or medically underserved populations.
• Working knowledge of Title 22, DSS regulations, or analogous state-level compliance frameworks governing senior residential or home care programs.
• Experience designing and executing community partnership programs or volunteer recruitment initiatives that expand programming reach.
• Demonstrated ability to develop activity plans for individuals with cognitive impairment, physical disability, or complex chronic conditions.

• Activity plan completion rate, measuring the percentage of clients with a current, documented individualized plan on file.
• Regulatory audit pass rate, reflecting compliance with Title 22, DSS, or applicable state senior care standards across program records.
• Session delivery frequency per client, tracking whether scheduled one-on-one and group visits occur at the planned cadence.
• Care Manager report turnaround time, measuring how consistently post-session documentation is delivered within the required window.
• Volunteer and vendor coordination count, reflecting the number of active external contributors integrated into the monthly program calendar.

• Base Salary Range: $42,000 to $58,000 annually, depending on certification and setting
• Bonus: Merit-based annual bonus of 3 to 5 percent, where offered
• Equity: Not typical for this role and industry
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer contribution varies by organization
• PTO: 10 to 15 days annually, plus paid holidays; some organizations offer additional sick leave
• Common Perks: Continuing education reimbursement for CTRS or ADC renewal; mileage reimbursement for home care client visits

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Consistent with federal, state, and local law, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Candidates with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations at any point in the hiring process. Because this role involves direct care of vulnerable adults, employment is contingent on a satisfactory background check, which may include criminal history and reference verification. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

The Activities Manager owns the full scope of therapeutic recreational programming, developing, planning, and implementing diverse member activities while providing direct ADL and IADL care within a care-focused organization. Overseeing team members and volunteers, this position advances member quality of life by ensuring programs align with current industry trends and individual care plans.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, plan, organize, and implement diverse therapeutic recreational programs for members.
• Draft and publish activity calendars and related communications.
• Provide direct care to members, including ADLs and IADLs.
• Oversee team members and volunteers.
• Participate in safety and quality initiatives, care planning conferences, and ongoing assessments.
• Stay current on industry knowledge and bring enthusiasm and creativity to member programming.

Required Qualifications

• College degree preferred, high school diploma or GED considered.
• MEPAP 1 and/or MEPAP 2, ADC, and/or CTRS certification required.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in activities coordination or therapeutic recreation.
• Supervisory experience preferred.
• Knowledge of current trends in therapeutic recreation and quality-of-life programming.
• Able to work a flexible schedule.
• Physical ability to push, pull, squat, pivot, transfer, and lift at least 50 pounds, and to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods while assisting members.

Embedded within resort operations, the Activities Manager plans, coordinates, and supervises all resort activities, from sporting events and dances to dinners and fundraisers, while producing activity calendars and newsletters for guests and residents. Working closely with internal and external stakeholders, this position delivers a well-rounded guest experience and maintains fiscal accountability through budget preparation and invoice management.

Core Functions

• Plan, coordinate, attend, and supervise all resort activities such as picnics, sporting events, dances, and dinners.
• Interview, hire, train, schedule, and manage activities staff.
• Produce and distribute a calendar of activities, events, and a newsletter for resort guests and residents.
• Prepare monthly and annual activities program budgets and maintain a balance sheet for each activity.
• Review, approve, and submit all invoices for payment; maintain petty cash fund.
• Set up and clean up after events.
• Organize fundraising activities and market events within and outside the resort.

Qualifications & Experience

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 1-2 years of experience planning and managing special events, preferably in a hospitality environment.
• Knowledge of basic accounting principles.
• Ability to negotiate prices and contracts on behalf of the resort.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office Suite, email, and the internet.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational and demonstrated leadership abilities.
• Ability to work well with internal and external stakeholders.

Reporting to the Director, the Activities Manager leads the supervision of Activity Specialists and the design of individualized quality-of-life activity sessions delivered directly in clients' residences. Partnering with Care Managers, the Home Care Director, and client families, this position strengthens client wellbeing and community connection through training, networking, and timely professional reporting.

Primary Duties

• Support the Director in supervising Activity Specialists and maintaining direct oversight of the activity program.
• Provide regular group quality-of-life and activity training to care providers.
• Conduct regular visits to home care clients to provide materials and support for QOL activities.
• Lead creation and implementation of projects aimed at improving clients' quality of life.
• Plan and implement individualized activity sessions one-on-one with clients in their residences.
• Promptly create and distribute reports to Care Managers, Home Care Director, and client family members.
• Build strong rapport with clients, care providers, and family members; foster community partnerships through networking.
• Comply with all applicable policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.

Skills & Qualifications

• Master's degree in art therapy, drama therapy, music therapy, expressive arts therapy, recreation therapy, or related field preferred; relevant experience considered.
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience working with seniors.
• Must possess a current, valid driver's license and the ability to operate a vehicle safely.
• Must provide a minimum of three references from existing or prior employers and satisfy pre-employment physical and legal documentation requirements.
• Exemplary writing skills with the ability to produce professional-quality reports after each session.
• Exceptional creativity and competence in developing individualized activity plans.
• Strong management and leadership skills, including supervision and ongoing training of Activity Specialists.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with patience and empathy for ill, injured, frail, and disabled individuals.
• Outstanding time management, observational skills, and sound judgment.
• Self-directed, driven, and entrepreneurial in approach to program and project development.

Sitting at the intersection of community programming and regulatory compliance, the Activities Manager leads and evaluates all activities at EastView Residence, including social events, concerts, holiday programs, and fitness center coordination, in alignment with Salvation Army policies. Operating across vendor relationships, volunteer networks, and internal reporting channels, this position shapes residents' social well-being and organizational accountability through structured programming and timely statistical reporting.

Duties

• Lead, coordinate, and evaluate all activities at EastView Residence, including programs by outside staff and vendors.
• Plan and host quality social events, holiday activities, concerts, and corps programs; develop a monthly Calendar of Events.
• Coordinate all activities in accordance with Salvation Army policies.
• Recruit and encourage volunteer involvement in programs, special activities, and meetings.
• Conduct arts and crafts and related classes promoting educational, fellowship, and social interaction.
• Manage and secure qualified instructors for aerobic classes and fitness center orientations; coordinate equipment servicing.
• Secure and process approved Waivers of Liability for fitness center use.
• Arrange audio and video equipment for all scheduled meetings.
• Process all agreements, vouchers, and payments for performers and activity conductors per Salvation Army procedures.
• Prepare and submit statistical information and required reports; perform other duties as assigned.

Experience & Qualifications

• Associate degree in hospitality, event planning, or related field required, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 3 to 5 years of experience planning and organizing events and activities, including social events promoting healthy lifestyles for seniors aged 55 and older.
• Knowledge of Federal Regulations, Title 22, and DSS.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and designing printed and digital promotional materials.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities with strong interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to build and maintain positive relationships with diverse individuals.
• Strong attention to detail, customer service skills, and ability to meet deadlines.
• Passion for health and wellness; warm, compassionate, and comfortable with the 55+ population.
• Strong work ethic, honesty, integrity, and excellence in conflict resolution and team building.

A key member of the resort operations team, the Activities Manager builds and executes a diverse calendar of programs, special events, and teambuilding activities for resort guests while managing staff scheduling, budget reporting, and departmental marketing content. Collaborating across food and beverage, PR, and other departments, this position directly supports an exceptional guest experience and the safe, well-organized delivery of both indoor and outdoor programming.

Job Functions

• Maintain guest experience standards and adhere to resort and company policies.
• Present a professional appearance and positive attitude at all times.
• Provide excellent customer service.
• Develop, plan, and execute a diverse calendar of programs, activities, and special events for all resort guests.
• Set up and break down events and programs throughout indoor and outdoor property spaces.
• Plan and execute teambuilding activities for corporate groups.
• Collaborate with food and beverage and other departments to coordinate supplies and reserve activity spaces.
• Purchase department operating supplies per the approved budget and ensure timely guest charges for paid activities.
• Create monthly operating reports, review financials, and assist with budget planning and reforecasting.
• Train, schedule, and manage department staff, including conflict resolution and disciplinary actions.
• Create and provide marketing content, social media, bulletins, and flyers in collaboration with the PR and marketing team.
• Maintain outdoor recreation elements and assist with occasional supply errands.
• Maintain surveillance of participants and minor children; provide emergency care until EMS arrives and report all incidents promptly.
• Perform duties in outdoor environments with varying weather conditions.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required; college undergraduate degree preferred.
• Must obtain CPR, AED, and First Aid Certifications within 30 days of employment.
• Previous experience in a hospitality environment and prior supervisory experience preferred.
• Prior experience working with children and adults in a recreational setting preferred.
• Knowledge of budget planning, financial reporting, and basic accounting principles.
• Creative skills in marketing, promotion, and programming.
• Proficiency in preparing digital and print communications and social media content.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple duties simultaneously.
• Energetic, enthusiastic, motivational, and able to show initiative and make sound decisions.
• Professional manner and appearance; must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays.