Enhanced Day Program Assistant

John Knox Village of Florida•Pompano Beach, FL

About The Position

John Knox Village of Florida is seeking a compassionate, energetic, relationship-focused Program Assistant for an Enhanced Day Program serving older adults living with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, mild cognitive impairment, and related cognitive changes. The program uses a welcoming, neighborhood-style environment to foster friendship, meaningful experiences, community connection, dignity, and joy while providing caregivers with respite and peace of mind. As an early team member, the Program Assistant will help shape the program’s culture, traditions, and daily experiences. This is a non-clinical position and does not provide nursing care, medication administration, treatments, clinical monitoring, skilled therapy, or other healthcare services requiring professional licensure.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Strong communication, customer service, and organizational skills.
Ability to work respectfully and effectively with older adults.
Ability to support individuals living with dementia, memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, or cognitive impairment.
CPR and First Aid certification, or ability to obtain certification after hire.
Ability to successfully complete required background screening and employment requirements.
Compassion, patience, and empathy when supporting older adults.
Knowledge of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Understanding of person-centered engagement principles.
Strong interpersonal and relationship-building abilities.
Excellent observation and communication skills.
Ability to remain calm and flexible in changing situations.
Commitment to exceptional hospitality and customer service.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience in memory care, adult day programs, senior living communities, therapeutic recreation, life enrichment or activities programming, hospitality services, or healthcare support environments.
Experience supporting individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or related diagnoses.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.
Experience working with volunteers and community engagement initiatives.

Responsibilities

Welcome members and help create a warm, inclusive, engaging environment.
Build relationships with members and their families or caregivers.
Provide companionship, encouragement, redirection, cueing, and supportive supervision.
Encourage participation in activities while respecting individual preferences and abilities.
Help members transition between activities, meals, transportation, and social opportunities.
Foster positive social connections and meaningful interactions among participants.
Support person-centered engagement that promotes dignity, independence, and success.
Assist with planning and facilitating dementia-friendly programming and experiences.
Prepare activity spaces, supplies, materials, refreshments, and equipment.
Assist with music, reminiscence and discussion groups, arts, lifelong learning, games, cognitive enrichment, wellness and movement, gardening, cooking, intergenerational programs, celebrations, and special events.
Assist the Program Manager with implementing meaningful, person-centered programming.
Maintain attendance records and basic program documentation.
Adapt activities to participant interests, engagement levels, and daily needs.
Help maintain a welcoming, engaging, and organized environment.
Assist with meal and snack service and encourage hydration and healthy nutrition.
Support a welcoming dining experience that promotes social connection.
Follow documented dietary information and communicate concerns appropriately.
Assist with dining area setup, service, and cleanup.