Exercise & Recreation Lead - Full-Time
About The Position
The YMCA Community team is repurposing former schools throughout the South Okanagan into welcoming spaces where everyone can access health, wellness, and recreation programming. This role goes beyond fitness instruction—you will create inclusive, engaging experiences that bring together children, youth, families, and seniors while fostering belonging and community connection. The Exercise and Recreation Lead plays an important role in improving community health and wellness through accessible and inclusive programming. By creating opportunities for physical activity, social connection, recreation, and lifelong learning, you will help people build confidence, improve well-being, and strengthen their sense of belonging. This position supports the YMCA's commitment to preventative health, community engagement, and equitable access to services. Every program you deliver contributes to stronger, healthier, and more connected communities across the South Okanagan.
Requirements
- Post-secondary education or training in a health, fitness, recreation, or related field such as Kinesiology, Recreation, Personal Training, or Group Fitness Instruction.
- Knowledge of exercise science, nutrition, chronic disease management, healthy aging, and program adaptations for diverse populations.
- Experience working with children, youth, families, seniors, or community groups in recreation, fitness, camp, educational, or community-based environments.
- Passion for public health, preventative wellness, and creating positive community outcomes.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage participants from diverse backgrounds.
- Basic digital proficiency, including email, scheduling software, attendance tracking systems, and point-of-sale platforms.
- Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.
- Current Standard First Aid and CPR-C with AED certification.
Nice To Haves
- Registration with an applicable professional governing body is considered an asset.
Responsibilities
- Plan and deliver fitness and wellness programs, including specialized programming for older adults and senior populations.
- Design and facilitate inclusive recreation opportunities for children, youth, families, and seniors.
- Adapt activities and programs to accommodate diverse abilities, ages, skill levels, and participant needs.
- Lead community wellness initiatives such as social gatherings, youth nights, special events, and fundraising activities.
- Plan, coordinate, and lead themed day camps for children and youth, incorporating sports, recreation, health, and lifestyle-focused activities.
- Build positive relationships with participants, families, schools, community organizations, and YMCA colleagues.
- Collaborate with staff and community partners to support program innovation, outreach, and community engagement.
- Monitor participation trends and gather participant feedback to continuously improve program quality and impact.
- Complete program administration, including attendance tracking, reporting, maintaining participant records, and utilizing point-of-sale and registration systems.
- Maintain a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment that reflects YMCA values of inclusion, respect, and belonging.
Benefits
- Paid vacation, wellness, and family responsibility days
- Extended health and dental benefits
- Annual Y pension of 5% (after 2 years)
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
