Activity Assistant

Department: Medical Day Program

Reports To: Medical Day Program Manager / Clinical Lead

Salary: $18.00 / Horly

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Employment Status: Part-Time

Position Summary

The Part-Time Activity Assistant plays an essential role in enhancing the quality of life for participants enrolled in The League for People with Disabilities' Medical Day Program. This position is responsible for planning, organizing, and facilitating engaging therapeutic, recreational, educational, and social activities that promote independence, dignity, personal growth, community inclusion, and overall well-being for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and complex medical needs.

The Activity Assistant works collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team to provide person-centered programming while ensuring a safe, supportive, respectful, and inclusive environment.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Program Activities

• Plan, prepare, and lead a variety of daily activities that support participants' physical, cognitive, emotional, sensory, and social development.
• Facilitate arts and crafts, music, games, exercise, wellness, gardening, cooking, sensory activities, holiday celebrations, educational groups, and community-based experiences.
• Modify activities to accommodate varying cognitive, behavioral, physical, and medical abilities.
• Encourage active participation while promoting confidence, independence, and self-expression.
• Assist participants during individual and group activities while providing appropriate encouragement and support.
• Promote participant choice and person-centered engagement during programming.

Participant Support

• Build positive, respectful relationships with participants while maintaining professional boundaries.
• Assist participants with transitions between scheduled activities.
• Encourage appropriate social interaction and communication among participants.
• Observe participant engagement and report changes in mood, behavior, participation, or physical condition to nursing or supervisory staff.
• Support implementation of Individual Service Plans (ISP) and participant goals.

Program Preparation

• Set up activity rooms before programming begins.
• Prepare activity materials and supplies.
• Maintain activity calendars and attendance logs as assigned.
• Decorate program areas for holidays, seasonal events, and special celebrations.
• Inventory and organize activity supplies and notify supervisor of replenishment needs.

Safety & Compliance

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized activity environment.
• Follow all DDA, Maryland Department of Health, OSHA, HIPAA, and League policies and procedures.
• Utilize proper infection control practices.
• Follow emergency procedures and safety protocols.
• Report incidents, accidents, injuries, or concerns immediately.

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with nurses, CNAs, Program Assistants, therapists, Direct Support Professionals, and supervisors.
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and staff development opportunities.
• Provide support during special events, outings, wellness activities, and community integration opportunities.
• Assist in transporting supplies or preparing participants for outings as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist with participant recognition events, birthdays, celebrations, and special programs.
• Support fundraising events, family events, and League-sponsored activities when needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree in Recreation Therapy, Human Services, Special Education, Art, Occupational Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, or related field preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of one (1) year working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, older adults, or individuals with medical needs preferred.
• ASL (American Sign Langusge) preferred.
• Experience facilitating recreational or therapeutic activities preferred.
• Experience in adult day services, healthcare, rehabilitation, or community-based programs is highly desirable.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Passion for serving individuals with disabilities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Creative, energetic, and enthusiastic personality.
• Ability to adapt activities for varying abilities.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to remain calm during behavioral or medical emergencies.
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office and electronic documentation.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.

Physical Requirements

The employee must be able to:

• Stand, walk, bend, kneel, reach, and move throughout the workday.
• Lift and carry up to 35 pounds.
• Push wheelchairs and activity equipment as needed.
• Assist participants during activities while following safe body mechanics.
• Work both indoors and outdoors during various weather conditions.
• Occasionally assist with setting up tables, chairs, and recreational equipment.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Working Conditions

• Medical Adult Day Program environment.
• Frequent interaction with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and complex medical conditions.
• Exposure to bodily fluids, infectious diseases, and cleaning products following universal precautions.
• Occasional local community outings and special events.
• Fast-paced environment requiring flexibility and multitasking.

Required Certifications

• CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Medication Administration Certification preferred (if applicable).
• Current Mandt or Crisis Prevention training preferred (or willingness to complete upon hire).

Other Requirements

• Successful completion of criminal background check, drug screening, and reference verification.
• Ability to complete all required DDA, Maryland Department of Health, and League-required trainings.
• Reliable transportation to and from work.
• Ability to work a flexible part-time schedule, including occasional evenings for special events if needed.

Core Competencies

• Participant-Centered Care
• Teamwork & Collaboration
• Compassion & Empathy
• Creativity & Initiative
• Accountability
• Communication
• Problem Solving
• Professionalism
• Adaptability
• Safety Awareness

The League for People with Disabilities Core Values

Every employee is expected to demonstrate The League's commitment to:

• Accountability – Taking ownership of responsibilities while maintaining the highest ethical standards.
• Independence – Empowering participants to achieve their greatest level of self-sufficiency.
• Mutual Respect – Treating everyone with dignity, compassion, and inclusion.
• Participant Focus – Placing participants at the center of every decision and interaction.
• Quality – Delivering exceptional services through continuous improvement and excellence.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The League for People with Disabilities is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees and participants are treated with dignity and respect. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other status protected by applicable law.