Long Term Care Activities Assistant
Location: Calvin Community – Des Moines, Iowa
Schedule: Monday 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Tuesday–Friday 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM; one weekend per month required
Position Summary:
Calvin Community, a not-for-profit senior living community located in the heart of Des Moines' Beaverdale neighborhood, is seeking a compassionate and energetic Activities Assistant to join our team. Our mission is to serve older adults in a caring faith- based community that supports their physical, social, spiritual, and psychological well-being.
The Activities Assistant plays a vital role in enhancing residents' quality of life by helping plan, coordinate, implement, and document recreational and therapeutic activities. This position promotes resident engagement, reduces social isolation, and supports cognitive, emotional, and physical wellness through meaningful programming and personal interactions.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with the Activity Director to plan and organize resident activities and special events.
- Lead and facilitate activities as assigned, including group programs and individual resident engagement opportunities.
- Assist with creating and displaying seasonal, holiday, and themed decorations throughout the community.
- Maintain accurate daily documentation of resident participation and activity records.
- Encourage resident involvement and foster a welcoming, inclusive environment.
- Build positive relationships with residents, families, volunteers, and team members.
- Support activities for residents across various levels of care, including long-term care and memory support.
Qualifications:
Education:
- Preferred degree in Recreational Therapy or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience:
- Minimum of six (6) months of related experience working with older adults.
Skills and Competencies:
- Experience working with an elderly population.
- Basic computer proficiency.
- Experience using iPads and tablets.
- Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a diverse, collaborative, team-oriented environment.
- Fluent in written and spoken English.
- Dependable with the ability to maintain a regular work schedule.
- Demonstrates patience, enthusiasm, creativity, tact, and a cheerful disposition when interacting with residents, families, and coworkers.
Benefits:
- Competitive pay.
- Discounted employee meals.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including vacation and sick pay.
- Professional growth and advancement opportunities.
About Calvin Community:
Calvin Community proudly provides high-quality, compassionate services in independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, long-term care, and memory support. We are dedicated to helping residents experience health, security, happiness, and a strong sense of community.