Connections Program Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Why Kensington Senior Living? Because  Our Promise to love and care for your family as we do our own. These are not just words – but something all of us at Kensington Senior Living strive to deliver each day. We’re looking for a  Connections Program Manager to join The Kensington White Plains.

Join us to discover your path, grow your purpose, and embrace the unexpected: deeper connections, greater opportunities, and a stronger sense of belonging.

Salary: $85,000 - $95,000, based on experience

Schedule: Full-Time, Sunday - Thursday

Summary:

The Connections Program Manager is responsible for the leadership, coordination, and delivery of the Connections Program, a specialized resident engagement program designed to create meaningful connections, purposeful routines, and personalized experiences for residents living with cognitive changes. This role works closely with residents, families, and community leadership to ensure programming reflects each Resident’s interests, abilities, preferences, and life experiences while supporting their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Oversee the daily operations and programming of the Connections Program, ensuring activities and experiences are engaging, purposeful, and centered around each Resident’s individual needs and interests.
• Develop and maintain individualized engagement approaches based on Resident preferences, life histories, abilities, and interests.
• Plan and facilitate one-on-one, small group, and larger group programming designed to promote cognitive stimulation, social connection, creativity, movement, reminiscence, and emotional well-being.
• Collaborate with Life Enrichment, Nursing, Memory Care, and other department leaders to ensure the Connections Program is integrated into the overall Resident experience.
• Work with care staff to encourage and support Resident participation in Connections programming and ensure daily assignments reflect opportunities for engagement.
• Build strong relationships with Residents and their families, providing regular communication and updates regarding participation, preferences, progress, and overall engagement.
• Meet with prospective and current Residents and their families as needed to explain the Connections Program, answer questions, and support a positive transition into the community.
• Assist with the development of monthly and weekly programming calendars and ensure activities are prepared, organized, and appropriately staffed.
• Monitor Resident participation and engagement, identify changes in interests or abilities, and adjust programming accordingly.
• Maintain accurate documentation related to Resident participation, preferences, engagement, and program outcomes.
• Participate in Health Maintenance Meetings and interdisciplinary discussions as requested to share observations and recommend adjustments to Resident engagement plans.
• Assist in identifying Residents who may benefit from additional support, social engagement, or individualized programming.
• Supervise, mentor, and coach staff involved in the Connections Program, including training, scheduling, performance management, and ongoing development.
• Establish departmental priorities, make job assignments, and communicate program expectations and changes to staff.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Connections Program and identify opportunities to enhance Resident engagement and overall quality of life.
• Assist with community events, family programs, educational opportunities, and other initiatives that promote connection and engagement.
• Attend and participate in workshops, seminars, and professional development opportunities related to dementia care, senior living, Resident engagement, and cognitive wellness.
• Maintain professional relationships with families, healthcare providers, community partners, and other service providers as appropriate.

Knowledge, Skills & Qualifications:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in senior living, memory care, activities, therapeutic recreation, dementia care, or a related field preferred.
• Experience working directly with older adults experiencing cognitive changes or dementia strongly preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, Social Work, Psychology, Gerontology, Music Therapy, or a related field preferred.
• Strong understanding of person-centered care and dementia-friendly engagement practices.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build meaningful relationships with Residents, families, and staff.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to develop creative and meaningful programming for Residents with varying cognitive and physical abilities.
• Ability to prepare reports, documentation, schedules, and program materials.
• Must be able to clearly communicate with people of all ages and abilities while maintaining an energetic, compassionate, and positive attitude.
• Must be able to read and write English and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and applicable community or property management systems.
• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the Community for extended periods of time while performing job duties.
• Ability to lift, move, or assist with items or equipment up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays as required by the program.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and positive in stressful or changing situations.