Director of Arts, Wellness and Engagement Program (AWE)

We all face challenges and transitions in our lives, and when we do, we must be able to count on the strength of community for support. For the people of Los Angeles, Jewish Family Service LA (JFSLA) is that trusted source of support. We are a comprehensive network of services that welcomes individuals and families of all ages and identities to our full spectrum of care. Our highly trained staff and volunteers work closely with individuals and their loved ones to problem-solve and guide them on their paths to safety, security, wellness, and fulfillment. 

JFSLA staff share in our mission and work towards our goals with the highest level of responsibility, professionalism, and integrity. JFS demonstrates our commitment to our staff by offering a comprehensive benefits package and a nurturing environment.

JFSLA is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of inclusion and connectedness.  In recruiting for our team, we seek the unique contributions that individuals can bring from all backgrounds. We strive for a diverse team in order to better serve our clients and ensure our excellence as an organization in identifying, designing and delivering solutions.

Be part of our commitment and join our family. For more information on our philosophy and services, please tour our website www.jfsla.org 

The Director of Arts, Wellness and Engagement (AWE) Program will report to the Sr. Director of Older Adult Services. This position will manage the day-to-day operations of AWE programs, develop and implement new programming and assist with innovations in the area of older adult services in the community. The position oversees programming, personnel, budgets and grant compliance for AWE programs.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in the areas of Recreation, Education, Social Work, or related fields from an accredited school.
• Degree in Recreational Therapy or related field such as recreation and leisure studies strongly preferred
• 3+ years of management and staff development experience required
• Program development experience, particularly in the area of social/recreational/arts and engagement activities, strongly preferred
• Valid and unrestricted California Driver's license and good driving record with access to reliable transportation required
• Proficient in Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel
• Background and experience working with the older adult population in social service environments a plus
• Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience in community outreach and public speaking, preferred
• Flexibility, patience, and an ability to work autonomously
• Experience working within an interdisciplinary team
• Culturally sensitive and able to work with a multicultural client/customer population
• Ability to work in a non-judgmental manner and foster positive client growth and outcomes
• Must pass a criminal background check (Live Scan fingerprinting) prior to beginning employment

RESPONSIBILITIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provide oversight for JFSLA Fitness Center operations as well as their related educational and exercise programming
• Implement programming and manage day-to-day activities, including health and wellness initiatives as per City of LA Department of Aging contracts
• Collaborate with Senior/Multipurpose Center Directors and key staff to develop programming that promotes health, wellness, and engagement to the 55+ community
• Provide weekly supervision and team meetings for activity coordinator/assistant staff members. Ensure team use of best practices in the field and trends in engagement programming for the older adult client population.
• Responsible for community outreach to current and potential new partners. This may include engaging with non-profits, city/county entities, and local networks focusing on aging in place initiatives
• Responsible for oversight of AWE budget and contract compliance for health, wellness, and engagement programming
• Collaborate with Grant Development staff to explore funding opportunities with the focus of expanding current programming and identifying opportunities for innovation
• Prepare monthly statistical reports in accordance with funding sources and agency guidelines
• Track client participation to provide client data to measure program and client outcomes/successes and impact
• Other Related Duties as assigned

Position reports to: Program Director of Jona Goldrich and Felicia Mahood

Jewish Family Service is proud to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or status as a veteran.