Recreation Specialist at Westhab Inc. – The Bronx, New York

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Recreational Specialist

FLSA: Non-Exempt

DEPARTMENT: Supportive Housing

REPORTS TO: Program Director

LOCATION: Bronx, NY

SALARY: $40000.00 - $45000.00 Annual

SUMMARY:

The Recreational Specialist is responsible for developing, coordinating, and facilitating engaging recreational, social, educational, and wellness activities for residents in a supportive housing program. The Recreational Specialist promotes socialization, independence, and overall well-being by creating inclusive programming that reflects the interests, abilities, and cultural backgrounds of residents. This position plays a key role in fostering a vibrant, respectful, and community-oriented living environment for the residents.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement a monthly calendar of recreational, cultural, educational, and wellness activities tailored to the residents.
• Facilitate group activities such as arts and crafts, fitness classes, games, music, discussion groups, holiday celebrations, and special events.
• Coordinate wellness-focused programming, including light exercise, meditation, nutrition workshops, and health education.
• Conduct resident interest surveys and incorporate feedback into programming.
• Promote resident engagement and encourage participation, particularly among socially isolated residents.
• Coordinate community outings and manage logistical planning (transportation, permissions, accessibility).
• Develop partnerships with local organizations, volunteers, and service providers to enhance programming.
• Maintain accurate activity logs, attendance records, and program reports.
• Monitor supplies and manage recreational programming budget.
• Ensure activities are accessible and appropriate for residents with varying mobility levels and cognitive abilities.
• Collaborate with case managers and other supportive housing staff to identify residents who may benefit from targeted engagement.
• Support a safe, respectful, and inclusive community environment.
• Assist with special projects and other duties as assigned.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to engage diverse populations, including individuals with physical limitations or mild cognitive impairment.
• Creativity and enthusiasm for programming development.
• Organizational skills and ability to manage multiple activities simultaneously.
• Cultural competence and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds.
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, email, recordkeeping systems).
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

High School Diploma/GED required, with experience. College degree preferred. Minimum of 1–2 years of experience working with individuals in supportive housing, congregate care or community-based programs. Experience developing and facilitating group activities. Upbeat, engaging personality is desirable. Program hours include afternoons, evenings, some weekends and holidays. Must be computer savvy.

AGENCY PROFILE & EMPLOYEE EXPECTATIONS:

Westhab is a prominent community development organization, providing housing and supportive services for more than 10,000 of the most vulnerable members of our community each year. We are staffed by an extraordinary group of hard-working professionals that are fully committed to our mission - Building Communities. Changing Lives. Working at Westhab is not easy. Our expectations for all staff are high. We believe that the people and the communities that we have the privilege to serve deserve our very best every day. We are a results-driven organization that focuses on empowerment and impact. If you want to apply for this opportunity, it should only be because you feel ready for the challenges and expectations that come with joining this kind of team. (EOE)

OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (OSHA):

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) ensures safe and healthful working conditions to workers by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance. Westhab complies with all applicable OSHA standards, rules and regulations in addition to keeping our workplaces free of seriously recognized hazards.