Program Manager – Independent Living

LifeSpire of Virginia Community – The Glebe
Located in Daleville

Join The Glebe

At The Glebe, we are committed to creating a vibrant, engaging, and enriching lifestyle for our residents. As part of the LifeSpire of Virginia family, team members have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day through compassionate service, innovative programming, and strong community relationships.

We are seeking a creative, energetic, and resident-focused Program Manager to lead our Independent Living life enrichment programs and help foster a welcoming environment where residents can thrive.

Position Summary

The Program Manager is responsible for program planning, scheduling, communication of schedules, event preparation, and the solicitation of resident feedback regarding recreational and lifestyle activities for Independent Living. This role fosters an environment where activity, engagement, and creativity can flourish while meeting the diverse needs and interests of residents.

The Program Manager ensures programming within Independent Living is multifaceted and thoughtfully curated to appeal to a variety of age groups, backgrounds, interests, and lifestyles. Programming should reflect an upscale, refined atmosphere while remaining aligned with current trends, resident preferences, and the evolving expectations of today’s senior living population.

This position also assists in the facilitation and support of activities programming throughout Independent Living and directly supervises Program Coordinators and/or Activity Assistants.

Essential Job Functions

Program Development & Resident Engagement

• Support the Mission, Values, and Vision of LifeSpire of Virginia
• Design, implement, and oversee a comprehensive life enrichment program for residents
• Develop monthly and weekly activity calendars that reflect resident interests and abilities
• Plan and coordinate special events, holiday celebrations, themed programs, guest speakers, entertainers, and community outings
• Evaluate program effectiveness through resident feedback, participation tracking, and quality improvement initiatives
• Assess resident interests, needs, and abilities to ensure inclusive programming
• Promote participation and build meaningful relationships with residents and families
• Support residents with varying levels of independence, including assisted living, memory care, and healthcare (if applicable)
• Conduct and document one-on-one activities for Health Care residents and others as needed

Leadership & Staff Management

• Supervise, train, and support Program Coordinators, Program Assistants, and volunteers
• Schedule team member coverage to ensure appropriate support for all programs and events
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching and professional development
• Foster a positive, team-oriented work environment
• Develop and maintain monthly staff scheduling to best meet resident needs
• Schedule direct reports/program staff for mandatory in-services and trainings
• Ensure compliance in Relias Learning
• Evaluate and/or assist in evaluating all program team members annually

Compliance & Operations

• Ensure programs and activities comply with state and federal regulations governing senior living communities
• Maintain confidentiality of resident information in accordance with privacy laws
• Ensure activity areas are safe, clean, and accessible
• Adhere to infection control, emergency preparedness, and safety protocols
• Complete initial assessments, MDS, care plans, and progress notes in a timely and accurate manner for both HCC and AL to maintain compliance with regulations
• Attend interdisciplinary care plan meetings and care plan meetings as applicable
• Maintain records and compliance related to the monthly Resident Services/Programming budget
• Process all related invoices and accounts payable
• Manage and oversee the budget and purchase of programming supplies and equipment
• Maintain inventory and storage

Community Relations & Communication

• Develop partnerships with local organizations, vendors, and entertainers
• Communicate upcoming events to residents, families, and staff
• Support marketing efforts by showcasing community programs and events
• Develop and/or oversee the development of programming calendars, newsletters, and interactive programs (i.e., SMILE)
• Execute activities, events, and trips that meet the individual and community needs of residents

Additional Duties

• Perform other duties as assigned in a prompt and cooperative manner

Working Hours

Some evening, weekend, and holiday hours are required. The incumbent will be considered a key employee and must be available to work during inclement weather events and occasionally overnight.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or Activity Director Certified (ADC) required
• Bachelor’s Degree in Therapeutic Recreation or related field, or equivalent experience
• CPR Certification required
• Ability to safely operate a multi-passenger van
• Strong communication skills with residents, team members, and volunteers

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 1 year of experience in a social or recreational program within the last 5 years
• All programming staff should hold certification as Dementia Certified Activity Professionals or Certified Recreational Therapists

Additional Professional Qualifications

The activities program must be directed by a qualified professional who is:

• A qualified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, or
• An Activities Professional who is licensed or registered (if applicable by state)

AND meets one of the following:

• Eligible for certification as a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist or Activities Professional by a recognized accrediting body
• Has 2 years of experience in a social or recreational program within the last 5 years, including 1 year full-time in a therapeutic activities program
• Is a qualified Occupational Therapist or Occupational Therapy Assistant
• Has completed a state-approved training course