Wellness, Life Skills, & Recreation Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview 

The YWCA of Binghamton/Broome County is committed to the elimination of racism and the empowerment of women and children. 

The YWCA of Binghamton/Broome County seeks to hire a full-time Wellness, Life Skills, & Recreation Specialist for its supportive housing programs. YWCA housing sites serve individuals and families experiencing homelessness, including seniors and individuals with physical or mental health conditions. 

This position is responsible for developing and delivering wellness, recreational, and life skills programming that promotes independence, reduces social isolation, and improves overall quality of life for tenants. The Specialist works collaboratively as part of the supportive housing team to empower residents through education, engagement, and skill-building opportunities tailored to individual and group needs. 

Key Responsibilities 

Program Development & Facilitation 

• Develop, coordinate, and facilitate regular programming that addresses social isolation, healthy eating, physical activity, and overall wellness.  

• Provide instruction in life skills areas including financial literacy, computer skills, meal preparation, kitchen safety, and other educational topics based on tenant needs and interests.  

• Design and lead group activities and workshops tailored to the frail/elderly population and individuals with chronic health conditions.  

• Assess tenant interests and needs to guide program development and ensure relevance.  

Resident Engagement & Community Building 

• Encourage tenant participation and foster a positive, inclusive community environment.  

• Support special events, health initiatives, and community-building activities.  

Collaboration & Supervision 

• Provide direction, training, and supervision to the Wellness & Recreation Assistant.  

• Collaborate with case management and residential staff to support tenant goals and service plans.  

Documentation & Compliance 

• Maintain accurate records of programming, attendance, and outcomes as required by agency and funder guidelines.  

Organizational Participation & Flexibility 

• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and agency initiatives as required.  

• Maintain flexibility to adjust schedule and programming based on tenant needs and program demands.  

Qualifications 

Education 

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Recreation, Health Education, Gerontology, or related field preferred  

Experience 

• Minimum of 1–2 years experience working with elderly, disabled, or homeless populations preferred  

• Experience facilitating group activities, workshops, or educational programming  

Skills  

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage diverse populations  

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team  

• Knowledge of wellness, nutrition, and life skills education preferred  

• Basic computer skills required  

• Valid NYS Driver’s License preferred  

Core Competencies 

Resident-Centered Engagement 
Ability to engage tenants in a respectful, inclusive, and empowering manner that supports participation and community building. 

Program Development & Facilitation 
Ability to design and deliver effective programming tailored to diverse populations, including seniors and individuals with health-related challenges. 

Collaboration & Teamwork 
Ability to work collaboratively with case managers, residential staff, and leadership to support tenant success. 

Communication Skills 
Strong verbal and interpersonal communication skills to effectively engage individuals and groups. 

Adaptability & Responsiveness 
Ability to adjust programming and approach based on tenant needs, interests, and changing program demands. 

Documentation & Accountability 
Ability to maintain accurate records and meet agency and funder requirements. 

Work Environment / Requirements 

This position operates within supportive housing environments serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness, including seniors and individuals with physical or mental health conditions. 

The role requires: 

• Regular interaction with tenants in varying stages of stability and wellness  

• Ability to facilitate group programming and activities  

• Flexibility to adjust schedule and programming based on tenant needs and program demands  

What Success Looks Like in This Role 

Successful Wellness, Life Skills, & Recreation Specialists: 

• Deliver engaging and relevant programming that supports tenant independence and well-being  

• Reduce social isolation and foster a sense of community among residents  

• Support tenants in building practical life skills  

• Maintain accurate and compliant program documentation  

• Contribute positively to the supportive housing team and overall program environment 

  Salary: $22.00 - $23.72 per hour
  Equal Opportunity Employer

  The YWCA of Binghamton and Broome County is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, familial status, military or veteran status, domestic violence victim status, citizenship or immigration status, arrest or conviction record, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

  We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an environment where all employees are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.

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